The Dixie Mountain rope tow is famous – well at least the warming hut is. It had a minor role in the movie “Napoleon and Samantha,” which was filmed in the John Day area in 1971 and released in 1972.

The movie, which featured Michael Douglas and Jodie Foster, is about a child named Napoleon who runs away with his friend Samantha and a lion. During one scene the action takes Napoleon and Samantha through a gas station.

That gas station was the Dixie Mountain warming hut.

The movie is available on video at local shops, but the tow itself can be used during the winter season. It is located at the Dixie Mountain Summit, east of Prairie City on Highway 26.

Starr Ridge Winter Sports operates the rope tow, offering low-cost family fun for snow enthusiasts. Skiers, snowboarders and sleds are welcome. The 2007-08 season rates were just $5 a day, $35 for an individual season pass or $75 for a family season pass.

The club is able to charge a low price because it’s a non-profit organization and try to only cover their expenses such as taxes, electricity and maintenance.

Depending on the snowpack, the rope tow is operated on Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. most winter weeks, but special arrangements can be made.

For information, cal Gary Rapp at 541-820-3694.