Snowmaking crews started in October as temperatures allowed, and three runs are currently open. More terrain will open as conditions permit, the ski area said.

Copper Mountain is set to welcome skiers and riders on Sunday, a few days later than originally planned. The resort delayed its opening to allow for additional snowmaking and will have a few intermediate runs available.

Loveland and Copper Mountain join Arapahoe Basin, Keystone and, briefly, Wolf Creek as Colorado ski areas that have started the season. Wolf Creek closed after just one day because of historic flooding in southwest Colorado. The resort opted to shut down until the west and east sides of Wolf Creek Pass can recover, and updates will be posted on its website.

Breckenridge Ski Resort had planned to open Friday but pushed back opening day to build a deeper base, citing overnight temperatures that have been too warm. On Saturday, the resort said its snow guns were running and crews were making snow every cold hour. "We need a few more cold nights to build the base we want for you," Breckenridge said in a statement. "Keep those skis and boards waxed. We're getting closer every day, and we can't wait to welcome you back to The Kingdom."

The staggered openings come as Colorado's high country experiences variable early-season conditions, with some resorts benefiting from cold snaps while others grapple with warm nights and flooding. For local skiers and riders, the season is underway, but the patchwork of openings and closures is a reminder of how weather patterns can shape winter recreation and the communities that depend on it.