Whitefish Mountain Resort’s official Dec. 5 opening is still weeks away, but eager skiers are already hiking to Big Mountain's summit in search of powder turns.

With 25 inches of settled snow up top, skiers and snowboarders are in fact finding a few stashes to leave their mark.

Resort officials are reminding hikers to follow the preseason uphill travel policy, which goes into effect Saturday, Nov. 21.

Between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., the east route is the only approved route for uphill and downhill traffic during the 14 days prior to opening day. There are no uphill or downhill route restrictions before 8 a.m. and after 4 p.m. during the preseason.

“During the day, everyone should be on the east route only,” said resort spokeswoman Riley Polumbus.

She also reminds hikers to steer clear of grooming equipment and snowmaking operations.

The uphill policy can by found online at www.skiwhitefish.com/uphill-policy