The snow is falling in the Washington Cascades and skiers and riders are getting excited about another upcoming season. Early storms that have hit the mountains have some people talking about an early opening of ski resorts in the Pacific Northwest.

White Pass officials say they need at least a 30 inch base to open

Officials at the White Pass Ski Area say they're watching forecasts and hoping for an early opening. Last year the resort opened on November 27 with lots of new snow. Could that happen this year as well? An opening the Friday or Saturday after the Thanksgiving holiday? It's certainly possible. White Pass Ski Area spokesperson Kathleen Goyette says even though snow has been falling on the mountain it's nothing close to what they need to open the area. Goyette says it's not just that the area needs 30 inches at the base to open but it needs to be good snow that creates a solid base of 30 inches before opening. The quality of the snow matters as well. Goyette and others are confident that quality snow will fall it's just up to Mother Nature as to when that will happen.

Will there be COVID-19 restrictions this year?

As for COVID-19 restrictions this year at White Pass?
Goyette says bring your mask if you want to go into a lodge but don't look for spacing in chairlift lines or while riding on chairlifts. She says unlike last year when people were encouraged to ride alone or with family members, this year chairlifts will be full and lines hopefully shorter. Goyette says "this year we want to manage our lines better so they're not so long."

Depending on where you ski you could see some restrictions

Remember any virus-related protocols at resorts will vary it will depend on where you are and what mountain you visit this winter.
Goyette says right now they're preparing the mountain and praying for snow. Snow is in the forecast early next week.

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