WARREN, Vermont — It’s time to get the gear out; winter is here. Sugarbush Resort will open for the 2008-09 winter season this Saturday, November 22nd when the Super Bravo and Heaven’s Gate chairs begin spinning at 9 A.M.

“Our snowmaking crews have put down a great base from the top (of Lincoln Peak) to the bottom of the Heaven’s Gate lift,” said Resort president Win Smith. “Mother Nature has lent us a helping hand over the last 10 days dumping about a foot up top and temperatures this week are allowing us to make every effort to have top-to-bottom skiing and riding come Saturday. We just ask that guests check the website for the latest info before coming up to the hill Saturday morning.”

Sugarbush commenced snowmaking operations earlier this month and has been making snow at every opportunity. Several lake-effect squalls that began arriving in October have also helped to turn the resort’s trails white. The Gate House Lodge’s food court and Allyn’s Lodge will be open as will Timbers restaurant this weekend. The Castlerock Pub, however, will be closed as it is in the final stage of a $1 million renovation. Construction began earlier this fall to double the size of the popular apr??s spot and add a deck on top of it. Sugarbush also added more seating and bag storage capacity to the second floor of the lodge. The new additions are scheduled to make their debut the week after the resort’s 50th Birthday Bash, which is being held December 12-14. Apr??s-ski festivities this weekend will be held in Timbers.

Lift tickets this weekend will be $49 for everyone (seniors, juniors, adults, and Sugarcard holders.) The Super Bravo and Heaven’s Gate chairs are scheduled to run from 9 A.M. to 4 P.M.

Visit www.sugarbush.com for the most up-to-date information on conditions and to book your stay for the 50th Birthday Bash.