Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort is in the tail end of a four-day late October storm that has dropped nearly three feet of snow overall, and 15 inches overnight. The Little Cottonwood Canyon resort received 602 inches over the course of the 2009/10 season - the third consecutive year Snowbird has topped 600 inches - for 190 days of skiing and riding, the longest season in Utah.

"This is an encouraging start to what we hope will be a very snowy and successful early season," said Snowbird President Bob Bonar. "With almost three feet of fresh powder and cold temperatures that have our snowmakers working around the clock, we're doing all we can to ensure a great opening day at Snowbird."

As of today, Snowbird is projected to open November 20, conditions permitting, but could open earlier depending on snow accumulations and snowmaking efforts. Skiers and riders are encouraged to visit www.snowbird.com for the latest details on mountain operations.

This summer, Snowbird added additional snowmaking capabilities in lower Peruvian Gulch, as well as mountain bike trails in Gad Valley and new snowcats. Currently, the Cliff Spa is undergoing its first major renovation since it originally opened in 1987. The remodel will include most of the ninth floor facilities, including the lobby and reception area, salon and retail store, men's and women's locker rooms, solarium, steam room and the treatment areas. New tile, carpet, treatment room flooring, art, paint, lighting and furniture are all part of the renovations, which are expected to be finished by early December.

Snowbird was recently named the top "Weekend Destination" in North America by SKI Magazine, and received top accolades for snow, terrain challenge, overall satisfaction, and value. Lodging packages for this winter, including Early Bird packages from $99 a person (with lift tickets and free skiing for kids, double occupancy required) are available through Snowbird Reservations by calling 800-453-3000 or visiting www.snowbird.com.

Customer Appreciation Days have been extended for a third weekend, Oct. 30-31, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting. Guests can ride the Aerial Tram for free with a donation of a can of food for the Utah Food Bank or $2 for Wasatch Adaptive Sports.