Arizona Ski Resorts Set To Open Over Holiday Weekend

By Steve Shadley
Published: Thursday, November 28, 2013 - 2:52pm
Audio icon Download mp3 (1.07 MB)

Arizona’s deserts are enjoying daytime temperatures in the 70’s, but ski resorts in the state’s high country are reporting snow as they prepare to open this weekend. 

The Arizona Snowbowl resort near Flagstaff is set to open on Friday for the season. Snowbowl officials said three ski runs will open, and two lifts and a conveyor will bring skiers to the slopes. The resort's Hart Prairie Lodge will be open and provide restaurant service and equipment rentals.

General Manager J.R. Murray said the early opening is the result of the resort's new snowmaking equipment. It was installed last year after a years long legal battle with local Indian tribes that consider the San Francisco Peaks sacred.

Murray said the equipment will now be moved to make snow on other runs, and in the White Mountains in eastern Arizona, the Sunrise Resort is opening its slopes on Friday in anticipation of a busy holiday season.