The complete dismantling and ecological restoration of a cross-country ski station is one of the most notable conservation actions in the Sierra de Guadarrama. Since the 1960s, a different approach to mountain use emerged, based on large complexes for the mass practice of alpine skiing. The Valcotos station (with 6 ski slopes covering over 24 hectares, 11 lift lines spanning 6 km, and more than 20 associated buildings) caused the destruction or alteration of valuable ecosystems and unique glacial formations in Peñalara, resulting in impacts such as vegetation removal, destruction of glacial geomorphological features, landslides, erosion and gully formation, as well as landscape alterations.

Since 1999, work has been underway to restore the affected ecosystems, and efforts continue today through revegetation, improvements, and ongoing monitoring of the actions taken.