FAIRFIELD, Idaho (KBOI) — Lack of snow this season has affected many ski resorts, but lucky for Soldier Mountain they've accumulated enough snow this weekend to open for the first time this season.
Last week mother nature brought 6 inches of snow to Soldier Mountain. Managers say that's just the right amount to push start on ski season.
"We just tried giving people every minute they could on the mountain. It was a late start, definitely didn't want to miss any days this season," said Matt McFerran, Owner, Soldier Ski Resort.
This time last year they got around 15 inches of snow a day for three days straight. That was too much snow, which forced the the ski resort to close.Today, they're sitting at 14 inches at the base and 30 mid-mountain.
"You know we had early snow this year. In November, we had enough to win snow cats and groom and then it just fell apart overnight. We got some rain then it was high pressure and cold and no snow. It's just been a really rough start this season, " saidMcFerran.
The resort usually opens around the middle of December. This year, it's opening about a month and a half late.
"I'd like half of the snow from last year and that would be a very good balance for this year," saidMcFerran.
Financially, Matt says it's going to be tough to break even this year.
"I think we just lost Christmas which is tough, that's definitely our busy time of year but we have a lot of people who know and love soldier who should be up here. Hopefully we keep numbers up and have a great season," saidMcFerran.
Skiiers are hoping for a great season as well. On the mountain today, they couldn't wait to put their boards to the powder.
"It's a great time of year to ski, especially when you have march conditions in January," said Steve Mitchell, Ski School Director.
That's for sure. Mountain temperatures reached the 50's today.
"We love that soldier is finally open, we're hoping for more snow but the sun has been good and it feels good to get some mountain therapy," said Abby and Will from Twin Falls.
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