photos by Stephen Eginoire

Durango Mountain Resort blew the horn last Friday, welcoming skiers and boarders on to the slopes for the earliest opening in five years. With round the clock snowmaking and a few fresh inches, enthusiasts were able to dust off their gear and make a few turns under bluebird skies.

A snowboarder carves a few turns near the base of DMR. Gavino Arellano, of Aztec, laces up up for his first run of the season. Skiers and boarders sport the latest in ski-area fashion at the base of DMR. Sloane Smith, of Monument, Colo., gets a hand stepping into her bindingsfrom intructor Alix Rowland. Lift op Dave Dowrick helps a couple of youngsters safely load Chair 4. Bill Clements demonstrates proper face protection while consuming his breakfast at Purgys.