Snowbird Receives First Snowfall of the Year

storm deposits 6 inches so far, up to 20 inches forecasted

Snowbird, Utah – Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort is receiving its first significant snowfall of the season with 6 inches already deposited Wednesday at the base, and up to 20 inches of total snowfall forecasted by Thursday afternoon. The Little Cottonwood Canyon resort received 621 inches over the course of the 2008/09 season, the longest in Utah with 194 days of skiing and riding.

“Overnight, Snowbird has gone from prime fall colors to a complete winter scene,” said Snowbird President Bob Bonar. “This snow may not stick around but it definitely gets our customers excited, and hopefully it’s the start of another great year in the Wasatch.”

Snowbird’s Snow Safety Department does not officially begin seasonal snowfall records until Nov. 1 so this week’s snowfall will not count toward the annual accumulation figures. The Little Cottonwood Canyon resort received dustings of snow on several occasions in late August and September, but this current storm system is producing significant snow and gusting winds that began late on Tuesday night and are forecasted through Thursday afternoon. The mountain is slated to open Nov. 21 for skiing and riding, but could open earlier depending on snow accumulations throughout the fall. Skiers and riders are encouraged to visit http://www.snowbird.com for the latest details on mountain operations.

Snowbird has undertaken a number of mountain projects this summer, including regrading the Path to Paradise in Mineral Basin as well as expanding the unloading area of Mineral Basin Express. The traverse from the top of Little Cloud to Regulator Johnson, affectionately called Road to Ogden, is now an established road complete with snow fencing that will allow for easier access into spring, and the resort has increased snowmaking capabilities on the lower mountain for improved coverage in early and late season. Snowbird has also added free wireless internet in the Snowbird Center and throughout much of the pedestrian village.

Lodging packages for this winter, including rooms from $79 a night and Stay and Ski Free packages from $99 a person (with lift ticket, double occupancy required) are available through Snowbird Reservations by calling 800-453-3000. Pre-season pricing on tickets and mountain school offerings are also available by visiting http://www.snowbird.com.