Many ski areas in Washington usually don’t open until Thanksgiving or later. Recent storms have brought fresh powder to the region, but the high slopes of Baker, one of Washington's volcanoes, is leading the way in snow accumulation.

Mt. Baker says it has a good base to start the season and would be running several chair lifts.

Crystal Mountain had tentatively planned to open its gondola and another chair on Friday, but the resort announced today that stormy weather had knocked out power and crews were busy cleaning up debris.

Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort had hinted it might open Saturday, its website has been changed to read like most of the region's resorts -- hoping more snow falls so they can open the day after Thanksgiving.

Nordic skiing also is underway in Washington.

As reported earlier, Methow Valley groomers were out midweek to pack snow from storms. Today Methow Trails began their earliest season ever by grooming throughout the day in Mazama, Sun Mtn, and Winthrop.

"Trail conditions are improving with every pass we make," the website says.

Firm conditions this morning with a hard freeze last night. The snow will soften slightly as day time temps will rise slightly above freezing. The best skiing can be found mid morning from the Mazama corral trailhead with tracks set in the meadows. Skating on Thompson road up at Sun Mtn mid morning would also be a good option. Stay tuned.