The cold weather that has swept across the western United States could put a damper on tomorrow’s Opening Day on Big Mountain. On Friday afternoon, Whitefish Mountain Resort announced cold temperatures could keep the upper half of the mountain closed, a reversal of the hope displayed on Thursday, when officials said the resort was slated for its biggest Opening Day ever on Dec. 7 with seven lifts and 94 trails open.
“The forecast took a significant dip,” said spokesperson Riley Polumbus late Friday afternoon.
Currently, Saturday’s forecast calls for subzero temperatures and wind gusts up to 20 miles per hour.
“If the current forecast holds, there is a good chance we will close the upper mountain for the safety of our guests and our employees,” Polumbus said.
If that does happen, Polumbus said the resort would offer discounted lift tickets for the lower mountain chairlifts, including Chairs 2, 3, 6 and the Big Easy Carpet. Discounted tickets will be $40 for ages 13 to 64 and $25 for ages 7 to 12 and 65 to 69. Polumbus said the resort would make a final decision early Saturday morning.
For more information, visit www.skiwhitefish.com.