It’s another slow start to the ski season in southwest Colorado, with Durango Mountain Resort delaying their opening days in hopes that this week’s storm will deliver enough white to crank up the lifts next week.

However, those still jonesing to hit the hills (minus the hiking) can head to Silverton Mountain for opening day, this Saturday, Nov. 29. “The snow conditions are better than last year at this time as more than 3 feet of snow has fallen so far this winter,” a Silverton Mountain release stated.

Expect the following runs to be open: Riff, Raff, Cabin, Colorado, Dolores, Ropdeedope, Tiger Main, Tiger 1-5, and Concussion.

Those low on cash but high on lung capacity can also take part in the annual boot stomping the weekends of Nov 29-30 and Dec 6-7. All volunteers get a free unguided ticket for each full day of boot packing. Volunteers can pack all four days. No experience required.

Silverton Mountain would like to remind would-be skiers and boarders that avalanche beacons, shovels and probes are required for everyone who packs – or skis.

For more info, visit: http: //silvertonmountain.com.

– Missy Votel