Well I did it. I goofed! Not all that bad, but it was a typographical error on my part. In Friday's Blog, I wrote that the Snowfields at Sugarloaf were open. I received some information from the resort stating that the 'summit' was open, you know, the top of the rock, that 4,237 foot triangle shaped landscape that can be seen and recognized from many, many miles away.

Speaking with Ethan Austin, Sugarloaf's public relations manager on Saturday, he informed me of an important note, that it was just the 'summit' that was open, not the 'snowfields!'

I took my first turns on Saturday and skied as many trails as my legs could stand, top to bottom. I kept looking up at the snowfields along with other skiers, but didn't see any skiers or riders making tracks off the snowfields. Now I know why. Austin did say that it might not be too long before they are open.

"We opened the Timberline chairlift on Friday, with skiing on Timberline, Tote Road, Cinderhoe and Binder," he said. "We usually refer to the snowfields as White Nitro and anything east of that, and maybe a few more trails will be open next week depending on snow cover."

Snowmaking conditions at the 'Loaf couldn't have been better. Cold temperatures, low humidity and no wind helped lay down a good carpet of snow from the new Low-E guns. Most all trails now have a good base.

210 Santa's ski and ride at Sunday River
It was the ninth annual ski and ride for charity at Sunday River Ski Resort on Sunday, where over $2,200 was raised for the Bethel Rotary Club's Annual Christmas Toy Drive.

"This is one of Sunday River's favorite events and fundraisers," said Jim Costello, Director of Sales and Marketing. "We have families who participate in Santa Sunday year after year. We pride ourselves in being part of their great memories and a wonderful cause."

Participants who wore Santa attire head-to-toe received a free day of skiing or riding for the event, as well as vouchers for two additional days. A minimum donation of $10 toward the Bethel Rotary Club's Annual Christmas Toy Drive was required and will be used to purchase gifts for children in the region.

Sunday River had 41 trails open for the event. Cold temperatures allowed the resort to expand terrain onto five mountain peaks with snowmakers adding more trails daily.

Saddleback to open Saturday
Saddleback Mountain is scheduled to open Saturday, December 13. The chairs are being hung on the new Kennebago Quad Chairlift, and snowmaking continues. The first of the season's Maine Days will be held Sunday, December 14, where resident lift tickets are just $25.

So get out the boots and get on the boards. It's going to be a good winter for some great skiing in Maine!

Ski and ride safely. Use your head and don't forget to wear a helmet.