Partly cloudy skies. Cold. Low 13F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph..
Partly cloudy skies. Cold. Low 13F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.
Updated: December 5, 2024 @ 9:06 pm
Snow makers fire on all cylinders Thursday at Mount Kato.
Workers at Mount Kato make last-minute preparations for their seasonal opening Thursday.
Workers at Mount Kato Ski Area tend to a snow maker Thursday at the Mankato ski and snowboard attraction.
Snow makers fire on all cylinders Thursday at Mount Kato.
Workers at Mount Kato make last-minute preparations for their seasonal opening Thursday.
It’s really happening. Mount Kato Ski Area is making snow and opened Thursday afternoon.
“This definitely helps,” said John Nelson, Mount Kato general manager. “Given the cold temperatures, we’re able to make snow whereas last year was a lot different.
“The weather didn’t cooperate and we weren’t able to make snow as often. We never got the window of opportunity to make snow. It was frustrating. The temperatures were very mild.”
Nelson said he hears talk of The Old Farmer’s Almanac predicting slightly below-normal precipitation and snowfall, and projections that we’ll have an El Ninã winter this year.
“We just watch the forecast for 10 days out and plan that way,” Nelson said. “We’re optimistic. I think it’s going to be a good winter.”
Dave Connor, store manager at Play It Again Sports, said he’s also optimistic it will be a good winter for outdoor recreation. He said skates are selling well as are skis.
“There has been plenty of ski traffic, both with cross country and downhill,” he said. “That’s our biggest category for sure, would be hockey skates. We have plenty of inventory for sure.”
Last year, winter “was a dud,” Connor said.
Jon Anderson, snow sports manager at Nicollet Bike & Ski Shop in Old Town, said Mount Kato’s opening day is exciting for staff and customers there.
“We start a countdown every year so it’s good to finally be here,” he said. “We have a lot of skis, boots, winter clothes, everything you need. It’s flying off the shelves.”
The service department is also busy, with folks getting skates, skis and snowboards tuned up.
“Our service work has been going crazy,” Andersen said. “Our guys are working nonstop.”
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