SAM Magazine-Denver, Nov. 2, 2006-A series of early storms have allowed Colorado resorts to get the jump on the ski season. Currently Loveland, Arapahoe Basin, Wolf Creek and Copper Mountain are open, with more resorts planning to fire up the lifts soon-including Keystone tomorrow. The state benefited from substantial October snowfall, which left up to five feet over a series of two weeks in some locations.

The Midwest is following close behind. The Upper Peninsula's Brule Mountain opened last weekend and was just joined by Minnesota's Wild Mountain. Both areas are offering limited terrain on man-made snow.

While snowmaking is underway at several areas in the east, none have opened yet. That may change this weekend, and at a surprising location. While most observers would bet on a New England resort being the first in the region to host skiers, the honor may fall to North Carolina's Cataloochee Ski Area. The resort is looking to record the earliest opening date in its history, firing up the lifts this Saturday. Normally the mountain opens the first week in December, but persistent cold temperatures have allowed snowmakers to get down to business. The mountain hopes to open limited terrain on a man-made base.