Arapahoe Basin, CO - A day after fellow annual competitor in the race to open first, Loveland Ski Area, began snowmaking in Colorado amidst an early season snowstorm, nearby Arapahoe Basin fired up its snowguns in anticipation of the ski season ahead.

Snowmaking cannons were still running this morning at Arapahoe Basin as the race to open first for the 2009 ski season is on. (photo: Kimberly Trembearth)

"The cold weather and clear skies last night made temperatures ideal for Arapahoe Basin to have a successful night of snowmaking," A-Basin spokesperson Leigh Hierholzer said this morning. "Sixteen guns were fired up around 7:00 p.m. and are still running from mid-way to the base area at this time. Crews will continue to monitor temperatures and will be making snow as conditions warrant.

"Opening day has not been set as of this date and will depend upon weather and snowmaking efforts," Hierholzer added.

Across the Continental Divide, Loveland Ski Area was making snow on a combination of trail segments including Catwalk, Mambo, and Homerun for 2009's opening day. These trails form a top-to-bottom run of 1,000 vertical feet.

“Everyone at Loveland is just very excited to start the new ski season. The temperatures look good right now, the equipment is in place, and the crew is fired-up to make snow. We got together this morning and decided that today was the day,” Bob Magrino, Loveland's Director of Mountain Operations, said on Tuesday.