photos by David Halterman

The DurangoNordic Center opened its doors early Saturday morning, just as another heavy dump courtesy of La Nia fell on the region. Sporting new terrain and restored connections, the Nordic Center kicked its season off in white. With heavy snowfall lasting throughout the weekend, Durangos other ski area already has a healthy base, and the kick and glide is on par with last seasons best skiing.

Skis stand waxed and waiting outside the Nordic Center on Saturday morning as Helen Low, center director, watches the first skiers of the year taking in some laps. Mel Mathis gets some kick going as he carefully waxes a pair of skis on opening day. Members of the Durango Nordic Ski Team run some relays to get the blood pumping along Aspen Loop on Saturday morning. Snow clings to an aspen along the 16 kilometer course while a group of young skiers stops to take in some pointers.