When Skeetawk Alpine Ski Area opens next month, it will be introducing new experiences and enhanced services for skiers and snowboarders.

The biggest news for Skeetawk is night skiing will be offered for the first time ever. The lights have been ordered and Skeetawk has received shipping confirmation - once they arrive, installation will begin immediately and the ski area will open for night skiing from 4-8 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, and expand their weekend hours to 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

"It's looking like we'll start the season with day skiing only but as soon as we get the lights here and installed, we'll open it up to night skiing too," said Megan Justus, general manager at Skeetawk.

The ski area is also offering a full gear rental shop this winter, with online reservations available after opening. Unlike last year, Justus said the rental shop will have a full fleet of gear ready for those wanting to give skiing or snowboarding a try, without buying all the gear.

The ski area is also in the process of securing alcohol and food permits, and expects to have light food options available for skiers, as well as local beer and kombucha. 

The big question is when will Skeetawk open?

"We have a fair amount of snow, and we're hopefully looking for another foot. We started our training program earlier this year with anticipation of early snow. Right now, we're targeting December 23 as opening day, but I'd encourage everyone to visit the web site and check on social media as we get closer. It's up to Mother Nature," Justus said.

For more information, and for current conditions and mountain web cams, visit Skeetawk's web site at www.skeetawk.com