The state-owned Cannon Mountain ski resort opens Friday for its 75th season, another step in the annual reawakening of the state’s ski economy.
On average skiers spend about $300 million a year in New Hampshire, according to Plymouth State University.
The snow-making machines have been going all out at Cannon Mountain for several weeks, says marketing director Greg Keeler.
“On Friday for opening day we’re planning on having three trails, that’s roughly two routes, down and two lifts open as well,” says Keeler.
The snow is about 12 to 18 inches deep on the slopes being opened, Keeler said.
They are Lower Cannon, Toss-up and Gary’s. All are aimed at intermediate or advanced skiers.
The plan is to open some beginner slopes over the weekend, he said.
As with other resorts only part of the mountain is available: three of Cannon’s 73 trails.
“This time of year you go one or two at a time and do the best you can. The stuff we are going to have open is fairly wide, so it is a significant amount of area to cover,” he said.
Cannon is not alone on making its season debut on Friday.
Other resorts opening are Gunstock, Cranmore and Mount Sunapee.
Saturday Pat’s Peak and Ragged Mountain are scheduled to open.
Resorts that are already open include Bretton Woods, Wildcat, Loon and Waterville Valley.
