Have snow, will ski.

And ski, they did, as Blue Mountain Ski Area in Lower Towamensing Township opened early over the weekend.Eager to get a jump-start, the ski area opened several trails on Saturday after it was able to make enough snow in the days prior.As an added bonus, lift tickets were available to skiers at a heavily discounted rate of $15.That the ski area was able to get a head start on the season was a real bonus, according to Jim Dailey, general manager."We had just enough of a cold snap to make snow," Dailey said. "We're very fortunate to be open, and enthusiasm is high."Dailey also gave praise to the 10, new fully-automated TechnoAlpin fan guns that were installed during the recent offseason, as well as the groomers, for being able to open early.Dailey said the ski area was "very pleased" and "surprised" with the turnout."These are true enthusiasts," he said. "Everyone's having a great time."Count Colby Dickerson, of Newark, Del., was one of those fans."I come every weekend," Dickerson said. "It's a fun time."Tara Hawthorne, of Easton, was equally enthused."I couldn't wait for it to open," Hawthorne said. "I'm very excited."Dailey said this weekend marked the earliest the ski area opened in the last five or six years."We're very fortunate, and thankful, for all the people coming out," he said. "We open typically on average the second week of December."Dailey said the intent is to reopen at 8:30 a.m. Friday, at which point the ski area hopes to remain open for the season.For more information, visit

www.skibluemt.com, or call (610) 826-7700.