Bald Mountain receives new snow

Bald Mountain skiers enjoyed their first weekend on the slopes Saturday, Sunday and Monday, and though it was wet and rainy Saturday, new snow blanketed the mountain Sunday and Monday, according to Melissa Skiles.

There was a whopping 13 inches of new snow Monday night and more was forecast for Thursday, according to Skiles. She expects a great snow for the weekend.

Bald Mountain will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Those who would like information about a ski bus from Orofino should contact Traci Telecky at 476-5173.

Bald Mountain is located 28 miles northeast of Orofino and 6 miles north of Pierce on State Highway 11. Elevation at the top is 4,404 feet about sea level and the base is at 3,720 for a 684 foot vertical drop. The terrain features beginner 25 percent, intermediate 40 percent, advanced 20 percent and expert 15 percent, according to their web site (www.skibaldmountain.com).

There is a 3,200 foot T-bar and a rope tow. There are 19 runs on the 140 acre ski area. Tickets are $15 for a full day and $10 for a half day. Ski and snowboard rentals are available and the rope tow is free.

Photos: Top--Skiers enjoyed their first weekend at Bald Mountain for the 2006 season. This is a shot of the bunny hill. Second--Bald Mountain was open for the first time last weekend with more snow falling this week, it should be a great time to ski. (Photos courtesy of Melissa Skiles)