CARRABASSETT VALLEY, Maine — Sugarloaf/USA is the first resort in Maine to open for the season and the only resort in New England currently open for skiing and riding. Olympic Gold Medalist Seth Wescott was the first official guest of the 2006-07 winter season at Sugarloaf when the lift welcomed skiers and riders on Monday afternoon.

Sugarloaf’s alpine elevation enabled snowmaking to begin Saturday afternoon with up to 80 low-energy snowguns. As a result of the progress that was made from Saturday through Monday, resort officials decided to kick off the season on Monday afternoon.

Low-e snowguns can make up to 40 percent more snow than a conventional snowgun using the same amount of energy. Snowmaking will continue at Sugarloaf as long as temperatures permit.

For the first time on Opening Day, Sugarloaf is offering skiing and riding on the Tote Road trail, with lift access from the SuperQuad, to provide nearly 2 miles of skiing covering almost 2,000 vertical feet.

The SuperQuad is scheduled to operate from 8:30 a.m. to 3:50 p.m. seven days a week. Lift tickets are currently $29.

The annual Tin Mountain Round Up canned food drive, traditionally held on opening weekend, is scheduled for Dec. 2-3. During that weekend, guests who bring three canned food items can purchase a discounted lift ticket for just $21.

Sugarloaf is a great place to enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday. Ski and Stay packages start at just $69 per person, per night and including on-mountain lodging, lift ticket, Sports and Fitness Center access and daily adult Perfect Turn clinic.

For more information about Sugarloaf including video and photos from Opening Day, visit www.sugarloaf.com or call 1.800 THE LOAF.