The snow has finally fallen, and Mount Washington Alpine Resort is open for skiing and snowboarding.
"What a difference a day makes!" said an elated resort spokesperson Brent Curtain. "After getting absolutely inundated with snow over the last 24 hours, we're happy to announce that our alpine operations will begin (Sunday) at 9 a.m. As the saying goes, better late than never! We've received over 60 cms of new snow in the last 24 hours which brings our mid-mountain base to 110 cms," Curtain added. The white stuff started coming down Friday night.
"Our current plan is to open the Hawk Chair, Whiskey Jack Chair and Easy Acres beginner area with all Magic Carpets operating. Our new Tube Park will also be operating with three lanes. The Nordic Centre will have trails for skate and classic cross-country skiing. Snowshoeing will also be available.
"As for runs, we don't know the total number that will be open yet for opening day," Curtain said.
"Due to massive traffic volumes to our website and webcams … we've been unable to access and update our snow report. We plan to update our totals and information once we can access our site. Needless to say, thousands of snow-starved Islanders are checking out our webcams to see what's going on up here!" Curtain said.
A deal with Whistler Blackcomb, which allows Mount Washington season pass holders to ski and board for free at the mainland resort, remains in place, Curtain said. The deal between the two resorts will be honoured — with three days grace — until Mount Washington lift tickets are at full price.
When the resort's website is up and running, more information will be at mountwashington.ca. Phone 250-338-1386.
The resort was set to open on Dec. 6. Along with skiers and snowboarders, some 600 seasonal workers have been waiting for the ski hill to open.