Snow Guns still blowing snow on trails at K1 Base Lodge

Snow Guns still blowing snow on trails at K1 Base Lodge

(Updated at 10:30 AM)----The Killington Ski Resort will officially open for the 2009/2010 ski season tomorrow, Saturday November 7th. The first lifts are set to begin turning at 10:00 AM. The resort plans to operate on Saturday and Sunday only.

Snow guns continuing their work in front of K1 Base Lodge. Click to enlarge.

The first day of the season is recommended for advanced skiers and riders only as there will be limited terrain. Cold weather has allowed continuous snow making operations in the North Ridge area of Killington. Based upon what I have been told, the North Ridge Triple chair lift will be spinning to support skiers and riders on Rime, Reason, Upper East Fall and Great Northern. The K1 Gondola will be operating from the K1 Base Lodge to provide the initial lift for skiers to Killington Peak.

Killington Peak swathed in clouds. Click to enlarge.

Top to bottom laps of the mountain are not recommended. The resort will ask skiers and riders to minimize top to bottom runs down Great Northern from Killington Peak to the K1 Base Lodge as snow cover on the lower parts of the mountain are still marginal. While snow making operations have been ongoing on Lower Bunny Buster to the K1 Base Lodge, the ground was not frozen when snow making began, impacting the amount of snow cover which has built up on the trails.

To kick off the season, the resort will be holding the "Back to Shred Rail Jam" at the K1 base lodge. The competition is limited to the first 60 registrants. Registration is from 9:30 to 11 at the K1 Lodge on the 3rd floor. The competition begins at 11:00 AM. Those wishing to pre-register can go to Killington.comfor more details.

Mother Nature also provided some assistance last night. Measurable snow was recorded through out the area. At the snow stake at the inn over an inch of heavy wet snow was on the ground at 9:00 AM this morning. I would not expect the snow cover at the inn to last the day, but on the mountain where temperatures are cooler...as they say every bit helps.

If you are planning on visiting Killington to ski or ride tomorrow...Be safe and have a great time!........let it snow!