Autumn is only two days old, but the chill in the air and the recent dusting of snow in Colorado are reminders that ski season is on the way.

Colorado's ski resorts were hit hard by the recession last year, with visits down 6 percent . Unlike past years, this season will see few major terrain expansions or new features at most resorts, as operators wait to see how the recession will impact the winter business.

Front Range skiers can take advantage of this uncertainty - if they act now.

While most resorts have yet to reveal their window lift ticket prices, tickets at some are staying at last season's rates, and season passes at most are remaining the same as last year, or even dropping in price, as resorts seek to compensate for the drop in national and international visitors by luring local skiers to the slopes. Some are offering payment plans, making passes good at other resorts and adding other perks.

But many incentives and pass sales end before the lifts begin running, and prices for others begin going up in October, so buy now to save later.


Get a list of the best ski deals at www.Gazette.com