Sandia Peak Ski Area has rescheduled its opening day to Dec. 19 as crews work to complete final preparations for the winter season, the ski area announced this week.
The delay will allow staff additional time to ensure all equipment and facilities are ready for skiers and snowboarders, according to updates posted on the ski area’s website.
Staff are completing extensive maintenance on Lift 3, including a rebuild of sheave wheel bearings designed to extend the lift’s operational lifespan. Installation of a new magic carpet conveyor lift is also in its final stages, officials said.
Recent snowfall has aided preparations. On Dec. 4, the mountain received what the ski area described as “a good round of snow” that blanketed the slopes overnight.
Crews are monitoring temperatures to initiate snowmaking operations and have completed most of the summer maintenance work on chairlifts.
“Every piece is focused on making sure the mountain is in tip-top shape,” the ski area said in its latest update.
The ski area, located in the Sandia Mountains east of Albuquerque, typically opens in mid-December, weather permitting.
Officials said they will continue posting updates on conditions and preparations as the opening date approaches.