Based on past years, Canaan will likely have only two or three runs open by the weekend, typically Valley Vista, Face and Canaan Curve, in addition to the three beginner trails. They will likely still be working on Timber Trail and Chute. Of course, with their huge snowmaking expansion this year, they may be able to get more open, but they are starting from zero e.g. no base at all.
Timberline was in better shape prior to the warm temps last week and had made significant snow on Salamander and had covered one run all the way from base to summit. They also have improved their blowing capacity this year and are looking to be much more aggressive in opening terrain this year. They actually had the guns going hard 10 days ago and were blowing even when the temp was around 37
. If that is any indication of their new approach, the they'll likely be firing on all cylinders this week.
There has also been a small amount of natural snow in the valley to help out - about 3" as of yesterday night. While it's really not significant in terms of a skiing base, at least does help to cool and harden the ground to make the blown snow more effective. And, of course, there are forecasts for continues snow showers for the next few days that could add 6 or 10 inches powder to the mix.
If I were you, I'd check the sites on just prior to leaving and then head for Snowshoe or CV and then just look at what's open when you get there....
