Snowmaking kicks off at several Colorado resorts ahead of wintery weekend

Consistently colder temperatures have officially arrived in Colorado making it possible for some resorts around the state to start firing up their snow guns to make snow for the winter season. And remember – a big round of snow is on the way, too.

Per a press release from Arapahoe Basin, they started making snow at 6 a.m. Friday morning. Arapahoe Basin is a spot to watch during early season, as they're usually one of the first resorts to open in the state with lifts typically spinning prior to the end of October. That said, snow is quite sparse in Colorado mountains thus far this month.

Arapahoe Basin did note that while there's still no opening date for the ski area, they'll be opening as soon as possible. In past relatively dry years, snowmaking has been enough help to get a few runs ready for an early opening.

Meanwhile, Keystone Resort fired up their snowmaking system overnight, though there's also no set opening date for this popular family-friendly spot yet, either. Their plan is to get Schoolmarm and Silver Spoon trails open first.

Meanwhile, other Vail Resorts spots do have opening dates set:

• Breck – Friday, Nov. 8
• Vail – Friday, Nov. 15
• Beaver Creek and Crested Butte – Wednesday, Nov. 27

It's likely that more resorts will start announcing the start of their snowmaking operations soon.

It's also worth noting that at least one major round of snow is expected prior to the end of October, favoring southwest Colorado. Wolf Creek will likely benefit greatly from that snow. The race to be the first resort to open continues.

A full list of estimated opening dates can be found here.