The China Peak Ski Resort prepares to start the season, but mother nature is making it a little tough. A lack of snow has caused the resort to postpone it's opening day.
The ski lifts were running during an annual safety inspection and the snow makers were turned off for a daylight break.
This year, crews at China Peak have a little more time to prepare for the swarm of skiers and snowboarders. That's because opening day has been delayed.
China Peak Marketing Director, Michelle Vikupitz says, "Mother nature is not always our best friend."
The resort was hoping to open this Friday, but the beginner's hill is the only area with a decent amount of snow. Other than that, the rest of the terrain is pretty bare.
Vikupitz says, "Obviously we have our snow making capabilities, but again that's all weather dependent. It looks like there's some more weather coming in this weekend... what that's going to bring, who knows?"
About 15 miles down the mountain in Shaver Lake, business owners are crossing their fingers for a weekend storm.
Greg Powell says, "There's a pretty big low with no money coming in, so we need the snow to come in and bring people to the area. It helps the whole town."
Greg Powell, owner of Shaver Lake Sports, is prepared for the extra traffic. The snow equipment is already on display inside his rental shop.
"We're ready for a packed season."
Avid skier and snowboarder Jim Huebner, was ready to hit the slopes a week ago.
"Out of the closet and ready to go."
He now patiently awaits the day after Thanksgiving season opener.
"I get 30 or 40 days a year in skiing, as do my kids and wife. So we're into it."
So maybe not as early of an opening day as expected, but it's not dampening the spirit of the season.
"Just want everybody to come up and enjoy the snow for the first time this season, have a great time," says Vikupitz.
Opening day at China Peak is now scheduled for Friday, November 23rd, the day after Thanksgiving. Officials say until more natural snow falls, the trails there will be limited.
Badger Pass Ski Area in Yosemite is scheduled to open for the season on Friday, December 14th.
TXT 24
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