The notoriously erratic Scottish ski season got back underway this weekend at CairnGorm Mountain above Aviemore after fresh April snow built up to a level that allowed the centre to re-open some limited terrain near the top of the slopes.

Following three good winters and a promising start to 2011-12 last autumn Scottish ski areas were first battered by strong winds and storms and then suffered from near record high temperatures in February and then absolute record high temperatures in March which closed centres early.

Conditions in the top bowl are reported to be ‘ideal’ for beginners and the resort’s Coire Ciste tow to provide snowsports in the top bowl was due to operate on Saturday and Sunday.

CairnGGorm says there is good skiing and boarding in the Ciste fairway and that the Ciste tow will be suitable for skiers and for intermediate and expert boarders only. The Polar Express beginner tow has been running for the last few days and it will be open at the weekend too, conditions permitting.

For freestyle fans there is also a mini-shred area open adjacent to the Polar Express with four rails and a jump.

‘We are pleased that we now have enough snow to be able to open some uplift in the top bowl and with the weather forecast for this weekend it looks like an ideal time for learners to have a go too. We are opening our equipment hire for them and for visitors who may be visiting the area but have not come expecting to ski or board. There has been enough snow in the last couple of days to push into the tow tracks and enable us to provide uplift albeit only in the top bowl,” said Marketing Manager Colin Kirkwood.

It is not yet known in CairnGorm will be open again during April.

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