Boston Mills Ski Resort to open Friday afternoon; Brandywine opens Saturday

PENINSULA, Ohio - Wednesday's snow storm wasn't a blizzard, but the snowfall total was cause for celebration at local ski resorts, which plan to open over the next two days.

Boston Mills Ski Resort will open with limited terrain at 3 p.m. on Friday. The resort was busy on Thursday preparing at least three slopes for skiers.

Brandywine Ski Resort is scheduled to open on Saturday at 3 p.m.

Steve Mackle, marketing director for both resorts, said the storm was just what Boston Mills and Brandywine needed to get the season started.

Mackle hopes the resorts will be open about 90 days over the winter.

He estimated the resorts were only open 70 days last season because of the warmer temperatures and lack of snowfall.

"It was definitely a little rough for us, but we're hoping that we'll get more snow this year. The colder temperatures are also needed so that we can make our own snow," Mackle said.

On Thursday evening, a private party is planned for Brandywine to dedicate a new, $5 million base lodge.

The 48,000 square foot chalet combines the amenities from three buildings at the resort, which were demolished.

"The rental facility will be much larger. The seating area will be much larger. Everything is going to be a lot more convenient and opened up. It'll be easier to navigate through the building. We also got a brand new rental fleet of skis and ski boots. We also have new boot dryers," Mackle explained.

The lodge also includes a new dining area, a sports retail shop and a bar. The top of the bar is made out of a tree from the grounds.

The popular family activity, Snow Tubing at Polar Blast, is not open yet. Mackle said Brandywine needs to make more snow and hopes to open Polar Blast soon.