This must be loosely enforced based upon business levels. When I was there on St. Patty's day (ill-fated attempt to return to skiing from injury) I booted up on the main level of the lodge and left my bag there under a side bench without issue. Many bags around.
I don't like Crotched's Lodge from an aesthetic standpoint, but for functionality and policy, I think they have it right. Large boot up area in the basement with plenty of cubby storage, no unattended bags allowed in the cafeteria area and no outside food in the full service restaurant. That policy makes the most sense to me.
