It's the day winter sports enthusiasts have been waiting for, Lee Canyon, formerly know as the Las Vegas Ski and Snowboard Resort, is officially open for the season.
"The atmosphere is electric, definitely, so many people are just stoked to have an opening day the day after thanksgiving, so obviously thankful for sure," said snowboarder Jason Webber.
Last year, Lee Canyon got a late start to the ski and snowboard season. It didn't open until mid December, so this year people are thrilled there was plenty of snow for the resort to open the day after Thanksgiving.
"For it to open up before December is actually a real treat for all of us," said snowboarder Alessandro Giampaolo.
People headed up in droves to enjoy riding down the mountain on opening day.
Lee Canyon has gotten about 20 inches of snow so far this year, about ten at the base. Along with some man made snow, that was enough to open the bunny hill, tubing and some of the upper terrain. The resort is hoping to open the rest in the next week.
People from other places don't think Vegas gets this lucky. We love the snow, honestly, push away they heat, lets bring the snow," said snowboarder Rilee Webber.
Jim Seely, Marketing Director for Lee Canyon said everyone is hoping for a banner season. Along with the name change, the resort is expecting big things to come.
"It also says something about our future, we're not just a ski and snowboard resort, you know we are turning into a winter and summer resort, you know as far as our hiking, our great food and beverage, you know the mountain biking that happens next to us," explained Seely.
Lee Canyon is open everyday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.
