Despite slightly sparse conditions, dozens of people, from experienced season pass holders to 2-year-olds, slid down the slopes of Mount Baker Ski Area for opening day on Friday.
With an accumulation of 46 inches of snowfall, the ski area was able to open with a low base. Various areas on the two hills were flagged for rocks and other obstacles, and many runs and chairs remained closed. However, skiers and boarders still found pockets of fresh snow and sped among the trees and the mountain peaks beneath a bright blue sky.
“It’s good to be back up,” said Drew Baty, a Bellingham resident and snowboard instructor on the mountain. “No matter the conditions, it’s snowboarding.”
Many of the visitors were Whatcom County locals who made the trip up for opening day.
“This has been our home resort for a long time,” Glacier resident Kirsten Mathers said. “It’s kind of like going back to school and seeing your old friends in the ski community.”
The ski area will remain open for the season. For updates on the opening of additional lifts, runs and lodges, watch the Mount Baker Ski Area website.