With the cold temperatures and occasional snow flurries we’re experiencing, it may be the incentive to think about the upcoming skiing/snowboarding/tubing season.

In a prepared press release, Tricia Matsko, Director of Sales and Marketing at Blue Mountain Resort in Palmerton, said they put their snow guns in service last Friday night thanks to below freezing temperatures and low humidity. It’s their first attempt this year to make snow and to build a base on the major trails of Lower Main Street, Vista, Come Around, Valley School and Snow Tubing Lanes.

The Blue is also preparing for their Black Friday/Cyber Monday deals on midnight, Nov. 28. At that time, off-peak (midweek) lift tickets will be discounted to sell for $39, Peak (weekends & holidays) are $49, and there is no limit to the number purchased and there are no blackout dates. Gift cards too, adds Matsko, will also be on sale with an opportunity to get Blue Mountain Bonus Cash.

For updated snow conditions and operations, check www.skibluemt.com or call 484-633-6510.

Down at Bear Creek Mountain Resort in Macungie, Jeff Zellner, Bear Marketing Manager, said they will begin snowmaking efforts on Dec. 5 followed by a proposed opening for skiing and riding Dec. 13 at 9 a.m.

This will mark the resort’s 19th season with limited terrain, excluding snow tubing, but all lifts will be operating.

This season will include favorite winter events such as Waking Winter, terrain park competitions, snowmobile drag races and more.

Bear Creek will also be offering special early season discounted lift tickets and rentals and the pricing will be what it was for the 2018-19 season. For example, Zellner said they’re offering a choice of ticket packages such as 3 for $109 or 5 for $150.

These ticket deals will end Dec. 23, but the resort will offer discounted window prices as well as daily deals through Liftopia.com. Season passes will also be offered at last year’s rates and 2019 passes will soon be available with stretch pay.

“This is an effort,” explained Zellner, “to get more youth involved with winter sports and hopefully convert them into lifelong skiers and riders.”

Offered too will be the Midweek Ski & Stay hotel package, college and club days, Sunday Night Special and lower ticket window rates on all retail products.

As for lessons, Bear Creek has new groups lessons starting at $69 (rentals and lift ticket) as well as a 3-lesson package for $145 (rentals and lift ticket included)

Bear Creek is located at 101 Doe Mountain Lane, Macungie. For more information check bcmr.com or call 610-682-7100.