Ski Resorts Across New England Open Early for the Season
Although the first day of winter is still a few weeks away, many New Englanders may be trading their Thanksgiving carving tools for ski poles. While enthusiastic skiers across New…
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Although the first day of winter is still a few weeks away, many New Englanders may be trading their Thanksgiving carving tools for ski poles.
While enthusiastic skiers across New England are eagerly anticipating the opening of the trails across ski country, what does that mean for those who want to ski before December?
Killington has offered early access to BEAST-365 or IKON pass holders on Nov. 12, with general public access starting Nov. 13. Depending on weather conditions and early natural snow, Vermont or Maine generally lays claim to being the first locations to open for the season.
What's the Winter Weather Outlook for This Season?
The winter outlook hints at a weak La Niña, high sunspot activity, and an easterly quasi-biennial oscillation, which could push for an earlier winter, although December snowfall remains uncertain. This type of combination has a higher probability of leading to an earlier winter. But whether these conditions lead to a snowy December remains to be seen.
According to The Boston Globe, the long-range models have at least a 6-inch probability of snow for much of ski country. The European forecast model indicates a chance of more snow up north before November ends.
Following last week's cold blast of Arctic air, a moderating trend is likely to set in heading into Thanksgiving. According to the Globe, “this time of year, the cold air is not sustainable. Why? There is too much pressure from the milder parts of the country, so that the cold air can't continually come down from the north. That's why when we see these early cold blasts, they don't tend to last.”
Where Can You Hit the Slopes Early?
While resorts like Sunday River and Killington have already opened, several other resorts are expected to open this month. Openings, however, are weather-dependent. Check your favorite ski area's website before visiting.
According to the Globe, in Vermont, Mount Snow, Stowe Mountain, Sugarbush, and Jay Peak are all expected to open before Thanksgiving.
“Optimism is high,” said John Bleh, director of communications and community engagement at Sugarbush Resort, in a statement shared with NBC5 News. “I think we're expecting a really great year.”
In Maine, Sugarloaf is also scheduled to open this month, along with Bretton Woods in New Hampshire.
