15 replies to this topic

[coskibum]

The group of residents looking to reopen Cuchara Valley as a co-op have a new website open. There is also a survey they are looking to feedback with.

I hope they are able to reopen the ski area, as this will be the first time with locals running the show. Please check out the website and show your support.

http://www.cuchararecreation.org/

This post has been edited by coskibum: 15 June 2008 - 09:04 AM

[Snoqualmie guy]

I really like the fact that it will be local run ski area. Just because it is rare now days.

[liftmech]

We'll see. That place has been open and closed so many times it reminds me of a bathroom door.

[Snoqualmie guy]

Whats the problem behind it closeing so much?

[SkiBachelor]

Lack of snow and skier visits.

[liftmech]

It's pretty far south in the Colorado Rockies (obviously Taos et al in New Mexico are further south) but is on the dry side of the state. Some years they're blessed, some not.

[coskibum]

liftmech, on Jun 18 2008, 06:57 PM, said:

It's pretty far south in the Colorado Rockies (obviously Taos et al in New Mexico are further south) but is on the dry side of the state. Some years they're blessed, some not.

very true, although areas like Red River and Angel Fire face similar dilemmas and continue to operate. Other major factors include inexperienced owners and management teams. Over the past two winters, the Cuchara area has seen excellent snowfall but had a string of very poor winters during 99 thru 01.

[Snoqualmie guy]

Has the ski area have any snowmaking? I'm sure that would help alot.

[skisox34]

Ownership by local skiers can be a big help. Mad River Glen has no snowmaking and it is in Vermont and they do a great business and by all accounts the new business model they have is working great!

[coskibum]

yes, the ski area has snowmaking on most runs but water rights are limited. the co-op is looking to purchase additional rights if the sale goes through.

[coskibum]

just to keep everyone up to date, cuchara was sold last week to a new group of owners, not the co-op. i am not aware of who they are or what they plan on doing. i know meetings are set up between them, the co-op, and the usfs. i'd say that looks positive? more details shortly...

[hoodoo]

In these economic times.. I can't imagine sinking money into a ski area that will need money thrown at it just to get it up and running.

[jaytrem]

Are the owners who just sold Cuchara the same ones that own Rio? Would be nice if something would change there too.

[coskibum]

no, not at all.

[Peter]

There is a new, ambitious plan afoot to reopen Cuchara. Mountain Coaster, zip line, skiing, and more. Website here: http://www.cucharava...fourseason.html
Sounds too good to be true but I hope I'm wrong.

[Kicking Horse]

it's a fun place to ski at. Just has sucky Snow conditions.... turn the place into a indoor area and it will be good and alive.