Although Shawnee Peak in Bridgton opened for 2006-2007 a few days ago, I didn't get a chance to make my first visit of the season until yesterday. As always, it was a pleasant mountain experience.

Snowmakers have created a skiable base on eight trails; four lifts -- three chairs plus the SunKid conveyor -- were running.

The triple chairlift was one of four lift operating at Shawnee Peak yesterday
SCOTT ANDREWS PHOTO

Turnout was surprisingly good, considering the limited acreage available, and the mood was merry. The good cheer was no doubt aided by Ullr Fest, an homage to the ancient Norse god of winter; he's apparently been trapped for days at the Denver airport.

The ski school was going strong, aided by a regrading of the Rabbit Run slope and the extension of the SunKid conveyor.

Ski school instructor shows a tiny pupil how to 'make a pizza' with her skis
SCOTT ANDREWS PHOTO

Zoe Newman, of Long Beach, Mississippi, rides the newly lengthened SunKid conveyor lift at Shawnee Peak yesterday
SCOTT ANDREWS PHOTO

Farther up the hill, snowmakers were setting up guns in anticipation of cold weather.

Snowmaker Bill Wespiser sets up a gun yesterday afternoon at Shawnee Peak
SCOTT ANDREWS PHOTO

I said hello to general manager Ed Rock -- who's starting his 25th season at Shawnee -- plus super friendly liftie Rod Good -- who's been working under the bullwheel for 32!

I wasn't able to stay for Ullr Fest, but Heather "Heathernator" Rickert and Josh Harrington offered to send me a couple of photos for this blog. Thanks, guys!

Flames soar skyward at last night's Ullr Fest, an annual event at Shawnee Peak that honors the ancient Norse god of winter
COURTESY SHAWNEE PEAK

Kids watch last night's Ullr Fest ceremonies
COURTESY SHAWNEE PEAK

With good snowmaking weather forecast for a couple of days, Ed Rock expects that additional trails will be open by the weekend. Check the daily snow report by clicking here.

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