The Mount Washington Alpine Resort is opening one week early thanks to heavy snowfall and a drop in temperatures.
The Eagle Express Chairlift will spin Dec 1. to Dec. 3 for a preview weekend the resort announced on Thursday.
Staff say it’s the first time in five years that the Vancouver Island ski resort will open ahead of schedule.
“Although we had a high freezing level for a couple of days this week, it was followed closely by a temperature drop,” said Peter Gibson, the resort’s general manager. “This combination is perfect for creating a solid snow base which is currently measured at over 1 metre in the alpine.”
Mt. Washington’s full winter operation will begin on Dec. 8.
With similar conditions felt across B.C., resorts on the mainland have also opened early, including Whistler Blackcomb and Grouse Mountain.
VIDEO: @MountWashington has just announced an early "Preview Weekend" opening to their 2017/18 season... December 1st. Here's 60 seconds of action from previous years to help get you in the mood. More on @CTVNewsVI's special web version of the news tonight. pic.twitter.com/GZDJpVuZyw
— Gord Kurbis (@CTVNewsGord) November 23, 2017
See you at the mountain! @mountwashington plans to open early for the first time in 5 years. "Preview Weekend" opening scheduled for December 1 #yyj #comox #snow @CTVNewsVI @cfax1070 pic.twitter.com/EzKSRjyQoB
— Astrid Braunschmidt (@CTVNewsAstrid) November 23, 2017