Ski Area Opens

DAYTON -- In previous years, Ski Bluewood may have waited to open with a minimal snow base of 20 inches. But this year, the new owners were prepared with the right equipment to pack a solid foundation for the rest of the ski season.

Ski Bluewood opened last weekend and will remain open just on weekends until a high pressure system surrenders its grip on the Pacific Northwest and allows some more moisture into the region for additional snow fall on the mountain, coowner Mike Stephenson said Tuesday.

About 70 percent of the mountain is open to skiers so far, offering smooth sailing down its fres...