Smoky Mountain News

For only the second time in its history, Cataloochee Ski Area in Maggie Valley will be open for skiing in October, with lifts ready to roll on 9 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 31.

Cataloochee will continue to operate for day skiing only (until 4:30 p.m.), as long as conditions allow.

The ski slope has been making snow around the clock since Oct. 29 to be added to the four inches of natural snowfall from superstorm Sandy. Cataloochee Ski Area’s snowmaking technology allows it to be consistently one the first areas in the country to open for skiing each season.

Cataloochee will be opening with three slopes this season. The current base of snow on these slopes is eight to 12 inches.

Lift tickets will be $25 per person with reduced rates for children and seniors.

As a Halloween promotion, guests purchasing a lift ticket on opening day will have the opportunity to enter a drawing for a season pass.

www.cataloochee.com.