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Recent snowstorms have local ski areas ramping up operations.
Telluride is reporting a 44-inch base, and as of Wednesday had received 14 inches of fresh snow. Lifts 4, 5, and 6 are open. Lift nine was open for a day, but was closed again to allow for more snowmaking, according to Tom Watkinson, Telski communications director. As snow accumulates, more of the mountain is expected to open Saturday.
Durango Mountain Resort (Purgatory) is temporarily suspending operations, to blow additional snow on the front and back sides. The resort will re-open Friday, Dec. 6 with Lifts 1 and 2 running. On Saturday, Lift 3 and trails on the backside there will be open. The area has received 13 inches of fresh snow as of Wednesday, and more snow is in the forecast for this week.
Hesperus Ski Area is open and is reporting a 20-inch base with snow still falling on Wednesday afternoon. The favorite local's hill will be open for business on Saturdays and Sundays, and plans to open daily on Dec. 21. For more information please visit the Hesperus website at www.ski-hesperus.com/hours.html
More snow is expected to fall over the weekend in the mountains, and then taper off next week.
