Berthoud Pass

[iskibc]

I look at the pass as another trailhead or a starting point for long tours. It's a great starting point for several long tours due to it's high elevation and location along the divide. I rarely find myself skiing the old runs or the usual locales that are conveniently located near the parking lot. A large percentage of the skier population on the pass seem to think of it as a "safe backcountry" venue due to it's history of being a ski resort and the amount of tracks visible from the road. I have come across too many skiers/boarders who believe the area is still controlled and is safe no matter what the conditions may be. Unbelievable how someone would think this way.

I think Education needs to be pushed more. We were all "gapers" at one point and learned through experience and education. I see a large chunk of the population up there wanting to learn as well and travel safely. Calling them "gapers" and bitching and moaning at them isn't going to solve anything. Ideally, it would be great if the Forest Service constructed an Outdoor Education program and office up there. Classes could be offered on a more consistent basis, lectures, hands-on clinics, library, slide history of the area, etc. Obviously the forest service would have to consider funding this project, but once the building is built all it would take is a few volunteers and possibly one or two full time employees.

The vibe is nothing like it used to be when the lifts were spinning. Even when the cat operation was running, I can't remember seeing so many clueless individuals roaming dangerous terrain. When the ski area was in operation there seemed to be a very tight knit community up there. Everyone knew each other and looked after one another. How do you reintroduce that vibe into the madhouse it is now?

[Foggy_Goggles]

When the ski area was in operation there seemed to be a very tight knit community up there. Everyone knew each other and looked after one another. How do you reintroduce that vibe into the madhouse it is now?

1. Get a popup to insulate from the madness
2. Run your own shuttles so you don't have to fight for rides with the madness
3. Roll with the same crew you have for the last 10 years

ISKI, have you read the last proposal? The education center got 86ed.

[Pinner]

Doggie Daycare for all!!! (And shitters for the incontinent. )

These are all great insights, each with it's own merit and very much enhanced by the fact that they are coming from folks who know the area and know what they're talking about.

Clearly there are problems and issues facing the future of the Pass, and I sincerely hope we can collectively form a solid vision and work towards it.

Thanks again for the thoughtful responses and for your continued support.