Pitkin County Approves Cabins at Ashcroft Ski Touring, AT

Owner John Wilcox said Wednesday that he would like to begin planning the design of the cabins but that his focus remains finding the next “steward” to take over the operation of Ashcroft and the restaurant, the Pine Creek Cookhouse. He wasn't sure whether he would pursue development of the cabins himself, collaborate with a yet-unchosen partner or find a new owner for Ashcroft Ski Touring who could take the project on.

ASPEN REAL ESTATE — A plan to add overnight accommodations at Ashcroft Ski Touring, a cross-country-skiing and restaurant operation (Pinecreek Cookhouse) south of Aspen, won Pitkin County approval Wednesday.Commissioners voted 4-0 to amend the master plan for Ashcroft after another round of tweaking a resolution that allows the development of cabins for guests but ensures they won't be converted to residences. Their use as short-term accommodations is linked to the continued operation of the ski area, run for the past 25 years by owner John Wilcox and his wife, Juliet. The cabin plan needs no further commissioner approval, though a site plan outlining their placement will go to the county Planning and Zoning Commission and commissioners. Unresolved is a proposal to convert the use of the Wilcoxes' 5,000-square-foot residence, located next to the ski area, for guest accommodations, as well. That proposal has been withdrawn for the time being.
By Janet Urquhart, Dec. 22, 2011 AT

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