It won’t be long before the resorts are in full swing so it’s always sweet to bust out for a few early season runs whenever a resort first opens. The pressure to rip is tempered with caution until there’s more coverage so when Alta opens it’s the ideal chance to test out the newly healed foot.

As of this weekend, Park City Mountain Resort, Brighton, Solitude, Snowbird and Alta are servicing anxious riders. Canyons Resort opens this Friday (Nov. 29). It’s supposed to be dry through Thanksgiving with only a slight chance of snow next weekend so take advantage of the restricted terrain to get your ski legs back. Rein in your enthusiasm, however. Nothing worse than wrecking before the season even gets going.

Folks lined up for first chair of PCMR’s 50th Anniversary this morning.

Here’s a taste of opening day at Alta. It sure was fun. The groomers on the Collins side were firm and fast (Sugarloaf side was a bit better) while the open spots of off-piste were surprisingly soft and safe. We didn’t hit a single rock – after navigating the traverses of course.