The 2001-2002 winter ski season has officially arrived. A sprinkling of resort openings over the past weekend has turned into a torrent, as most major ski resorts in the region have now kicked off their season.

Lifts are coming on-line this morning at Liberty Mountain, Ski Roundtop, and Whitetail, three resorts closest to D.C. Eric Flynn, President & General Manager of the three resorts, reports that snowmaking has been in high gear. The cold temperatures and improvements in snowmaking have allowed the three resorts to open with only a few days of snowmaking under their belts.

Also in Pennsylvania, Laurel Mountain, Elk Mountain, and Blue Mountain Resorts plan to open today. Seven Springs has been operating for several days. Many Poconos resorts have come on-line, including Jack Frost, Alpine Mountain, and Camelback. Blue Knob opened on Christmas day, and Montage plans to open on December 27.

The Homestead’s Michael Valach reports that the Virginia resort has opened two trails, with snowmaking continuing. Also in Virginia, Massanutten Resort is open.

In West Virginia, Timberline Resort plans to open its beginner area by mid-morning. Nearby Canaan Valley Resort plans to open today, too. Winterplace opened on Christmas day, and Snowshoe Mountain Resort continues its season with aggressive snowmaking, hoping to open additional terrain in the coming days.

Maryland’s only ski resort, Wisp, is also open.

Most resorts in the region have limited terrain available, and special hours or holiday rates may be in effect. (Elevated holiday rates are normally in effect for the period between Christmas and New Year’s Day, although some resorts are currently discounting ticket prices due to limited terrain.)

DCSki recommends contacting individual resorts to determine lift ticket rates and hours, as well as the latest status on trail openings. Be sure to bring goggles - many resorts are now making snow around the clock. Over the next few days, many more trails should come on-line as ideal snowmaking conditions continue. The forecast shows below average temperatures continuing for the next 7-10 days, which should allow resorts to quickly ramp up their available terrain. Conditions across most resorts are expected to be machine-made, packed powder.

Snowmaking underway at Liberty. Liberty Mountain Resort plans to open Wednesday morning, December 26. Photo provided by Liberty Mountain Resort.

Homestead opens. Virginia’s Homestead Resort has two trails open, with an average base depth of 8-16 inches. Photo provided by the Homestead Resort.

Anyone want a six pack? The new high-speed “six pack” lift at Seven Springs receives some of its first customers. Photo provided by Seven Springs Resort.

Caught in the act. A snow groomer is caught tilling the powder in this “webcam” shot from Laurel Mountain Resort. Photo provided by Laurel Mountain Resort.