Killington, VT – Vermont’s ski season is open for business. Thanks to this week’s cold snowmaking temperatures augmented by nine inches of natural snowfall, Killington Resort will bring skiers and riders back to the slopes for the kick-off of the 2011-12 winter season this Saturday.

The opening will take place nearly nine weeks after flood waters from Tropical Storm Irene devastated the region.

“It’s incredible to see how quickly Killington Resort and our surrounding communities have been restored after the damage brought by tropical storm Irene,” stated Chris Nyberg, president and general manager for Killington Resort. “All roads leading in and out of Killington have all been repaired and we are proud to provide our guests with early season skiing and riding.”

Skiing and riding this weekend will take place on advanced terrain only on the un-groomed Rime trail, providing roughly 600 vertical feet of terrain. No beginner terrain will be available at this time.

Hours of operation will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. The K-1 Gondola will provide uploading and downloading, while access from the top of the K-1 Gondola down and up from the skiing and riding terrain will be via a short walk on the Peak Walkway.

This weekend lift tickets are $39 for adults (19-64), $33 for Young Adults/Seniors (13-18/65+) and $27 for Juniors (7-12). Season pass holders who have not activated their passes may do so at the Snowshed Sales Center beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday. Beverages, hot dogs, chili and light snacks will be available for purchase at the base of the North Ridge Triple Chair and the K-1 Lodge will be open for ticket sales, lunch, guest service, retail and restrooms.

Crews will re-evaluate the conditions on Sunday afternoon and determine the operating schedule for the following week.