Hundreds choose snow over shopping as ski season opens at Lee Canyon — PHOTOS

Black Friday didn't just include shopping this year.

More than 600 people headed to the Lee Canyon ski resort on Mount Charleston, an hour northwest of Las Vegas, for opening day to ski, snowboard or tube, according to Marketing Manager Jim Seely.

"For our season pass holders and dedicated local guests, it's like going back to school," he said. "Except it's more fun."

More visitors made the trek to the resort Saturday, as morning temperatures hovered in the mid-30s and snowflakes lightly blanketed the mountain.

Opening day, Seely said, is dependent upon the weather.

Last year, the ski resort, which sits more than 8,500 feet above the Las Vegas Valley, didn't open until Dec. 13.

Its earliest season start came in 2009 when the resort opened on Oct. 7.

"Last year's snow fall was 70 inches, and so far we already have 20 inches," he said. "It's looking good."

This is the second year the more than 50-year-old ski and snowboard destination will be offering tubing, Seely said.

"It was a big success last year, and it increases our offerings for people coming up to the mountain," he said. "It's fun for the whole family, and you don't need certain skills like you do with skiing or snowboarding."

Lee Canyon offers a variety of skiing and snowboarding programs for children as well as private lessons and complimentary coaching for all levels.

For beginners, Seely recommends meeting with a coach at least four times to get used to snow sports, the environment and equipment.

"It's a chance for people to get out there, jump in and try it out," Seely said. "It takes determination, but eventually a light bulb goes off and you get it."

To prepare for the upcoming season, which lasts until March, Seely said the resort's more than 200 staff members attended an orientation and coaching clinics.

Lead instructor Sonja Wenzel kicked off her fourth season at the resort on Friday.

"We're a family up here, and I couldn't imagine not being up here in the winter," she said. "It's part of who I am; it runs in my blood."

Wenzel offers snowboarding and ski lessons to adults.

"It's so rewarding when you see it click and they have an 'aha' moment," she said. "I can't wait to create winter memories this season."

Las Vegas native Jeff Denton has been going to Lee Canyon for the past 20 years.

"It's like getting away on a road trip," he said. "It feels like you're in a different state."

On Saturday, he brought his friend, Chris Roye, to teach him how to snowboard.

"I took a couple of falls during my first time, but it's been fantastic," Roye said. "I just get up and keep going."

Patrick Santoro went skiing on one of the resort's 30 trails with his 8-year-old daughter, Alexandra.

"It's really family-friendly, and it's a great time to come up here," he said.

Alexandra added, "Everyone should come up here and have fun skiing. If you don't know how to ski, start on the bunny trail."

This season also marks the first season Lee Canyon went back to being called its original name. In 2003, it was deemed the Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort.

"Our guests are happy we're back to our original name," Seely said. "It took us a while to find our identity, but Lee Canyon is who we are and what we're about."

Matt Kester, a Las Vegas native, just entered his 10th snowboarding season at Lee Canyon.

"I love snow, and it's great to get away," he said. "This is my sanctuary."

Kester recommends everyone attempt to ski or snowboard at least once.

"Try it and don't get discouraged if you aren't good at first," he said. "Eventually you'll get into it, and you'll love it."

Seely recommends first timers dress in layers, bring sunscreen, eye protection and winter accessories such as hats and gloves as well as wear wool or moisture-wicking socks.

As far as equipment, guests are welcome to bring their own or rent skis, snowboards and clothing, including jackets and snow pants.

Lee Canyon boasts a concession area and bar in the lodge as well as a snow cabana, which is available for rent for private parties and comes complete with food and beverages.

This weekend, more than 2,000 people are expected to pass through Lee Canyon, according to Seely.

"Like every season, I just want everyone to have fun," he said. "That's what we're all about."

Prices vary depending on activity, with an hour and a half of tubing for $20, all-day lift access from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a special early-season rate of $50, and snow experience packages, which include an all-day lift ticket and equipment rental, starting at $119. Season passes range from $199 to $399.

The resort also offers a designated snow play area for inflatable and plastic sleds only at the Foxtail Picnic Area off Lee Canyon Road. Admission is $20 per car for up to four passengers and $5 for each extra passenger or for walk-ins.

Pre-booking at Lee Canyon is available at a discount of up to 30 percent on the resort's website, www.leecanyonlv.com.

Contact reporter Ann Friedman at afriedman@reviewjournal.com or 702-380-4588. Follow @AnnFriedmanRJ on Twitter.