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.