Stop pretending

August 10, 2007

Have you noticed how ski resorts are becoming more and more like upscale towns? Nowadays, a ski slope just isn't enough. There has to be shopping. And a pool. And a fitness center, spa, exclusive restaurant, ice skating rink, and of course, lots and lots of condos, all disguised under a thin veneer of eco-consciousness.

The latest “conservation community” proposed by the cross-country ski resort Royal Gorge doesn't even involve much skiing. Instead, it offers four unimpressive downhill runs with a residents-only connection to Sugar Bowl, and a dramatically different cross-country experience — now you ski through a subdivision!

The question is: how many million-dollar condos and multi-milion-dollar second homes do we need in our forests? Kirkwood is busy building 1,413 homes, Northstar's new development will involve 1,450 residences, Sugar Bowl is building 213, and Squaw Valley just added 441 residences to its resort. It won't be too long before these ski villages completely overrun the forest they're supposed to enjoy. And if the villages offer more entertainment than nature, why build them in the mountains in the first place?

Let's enjoy our wilderness in its natural state, and stop pretending to “improve” the outdoor experience with so many indoor pursuits.

Amber Waddle

Auburn