LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Thursday’s storm brought much-needed rain to the valley and some much-needed snowfall to the mountains.
Almost three feet of snow brought over 1,000 people to the Lee Canyon Ski Resort for the first powder day of the season.
First-time and long-time skiers and snowboarders, came out to experience the snow in all its glory. Snowboarder Jose Orozco started the day bright and early.
“I got here at eight in the morning. You know, we set up there and have a little barbecue,” Orozco said.
Before Orozco arrived, Lee Canyon crews had to ensure the safety of everyone as large snowfalls can increase the risk of avalanches.
To stop them from happening they bring out the big guns — literally.
“Here at Lee Canyon, we actually operate a howitzer, which is a World War Two cannon basically,” Lee Canyon Marketing Coordinator Johnny DeGeorge said.
By using it, they trigger pre-planned avalanches that flow into designated paths, setting up the ski resort for a safer day of fun.
That fun is fueled by the light and fluffy natural snow, which snowboarders like Joab Torres know and love.
“Fresh powder, It’s always good to shred fresh powder,” Torres said.
Powder was a welcome sight as the ski resort has been open, but primarily had to make snow. On Friday four of five lifts were open, but the snow means the resort can open to 100%. The final lift, Sherwood is set to open Saturday at 9 a.m.
“It’s always good to have more options when you come, especially when you’re bringing family,” Torres said.
With a long weekend looming, and the final lift set to open, DeGeorge, says to have fun, be prepared and be chill.
“Have some patience for our mountain operations crew who’s working hard to get this place up and running,” DeGeorge said.
Lee Canyon staff say to check Nevada 511 for real-time road conditions before heading up. You may need a four-wheel drive or snow chains.
