Loveland wins!

bob reports Loveland’s early snowmaking and plans a mid-October visit, while fishnski questions the hype and compares Colorado’s conditions with Canaan Valley’s.

jimboc reports Arapahoe Basin’s mid-October opening, while subsequent snowfall brings Loveland into the early-season race and prompts reflections on thin coverage and long lift lines.

Jimc reports Loveland’s early opening, while members compare first-to-open contenders and share news and firsthand powder skiing from Colorado, New Hampshire, and Utah.