This Colorado ski area will be first in the state to open for 2024-25 season

DENVER (KDVR) — Snowflakes are flying at places like Loveland Ski Area and A-Basin but no opening dates have been announced yet. However, one ski area in Southern Colorado has its opening day already announced .

Wolf Creek Ski Area, located in Archuleta County near Pagosa Springs , will open for full-week operations beginning Tuesday, Oct. 22, with 21 inches of snow accumulated during the most recent snowstorm . The ski area reported about 16 inches of snow depth midway down the mountain, and the National Weather Service is forecasting several inches of snow for elevations over 9,000 feet in western Colorado.

The ski area said the Bonanza, Treasure and Nova Lifts will operate from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., which will provide recreationists with access to roughly 30% of the mountain. Additionally, the Magic Carpet (a people mover) will be open for the Wolf Pup and Wolf Rider programs.

The ski area is discouraging uphill traffic at this time due to heavy equipment and snow-making operations. A good alternative is to hike up Lobo Overlook.

Lift tickets are set to cost $68 for adults, $49 for seniors and $34 for children.

Opening day festivities will be held Tuesday, and skiers and boarders who wear the anniversary colors of red and gold will receive a commemorative 85th-anniversary sticker. Activities are planned throughout the season that will offer skiers and snowboarders chances to win prizes and swag.

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