Skiing

Alyeska will open Dec. 9, a week earlier than expected

Thanks to snow-making machines and Mother Nature, Alyeska Ski Resort will open a week earlier than previously announced.

The Girdwood ski area will open Saturday, Dec. 9, resort officials said Thursday afternoon.

"(B)etween continued good snow-making temperatures, as well as the natural snow we are receiving, we will be able to open prior to the scheduled date." owner John Byrne said in a press release.

According to the resort's online snow report, Alyeska received seven inches of snow at the top of Chair 7 on Wednesday and Thursday. The mountain has received 70 inches to date.

Which lifts will be opened will be decided based on conditions as opening day approaches.

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