Whitefish’s Mountain Resort’s official Dec. 7 opening is just a few weeks away and eager skiers are ready to hike to the Big Mountain’s summit.

Resort officials are reminding hikers to follow the preseason uphill travel policy, which goes into effect Wednesday, Nov. 23.

Between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., the east route is the only approved route. The route begins at the Base Lodge, crosses the bridge toward the Ski and Ride School and Clinic building and ascends lower Inspiration, Expressway, Moe-Mentum, and Fill Hill to the summit. It is marked by 12 red diamonds with an arrow and the word “UPHILL” printed on them.

There are no uphill or downhill route restrictions before 8 a.m. and after 4 p.m. during the preseason and postseason.

Snowmaking operations began Nov. 16 and slope maintenance crews will continue snowmaking when temperatures and conditions are optimal in preparation for opening day. Resort officials ask the public to be aware that equipment such as snow guns, hoses, grooming machines, snowmobiles and high voltage lines present potential hazards to skiers wishing to travel uphill for turns.

Also new this season, uphill skier parking is permitted in the Spruce Lot only.

Skiers are asked to read and abide by the uphill policy and its guidelines including avoiding ski area machinery and keeping dogs on leash.

The uphill policy can be found on the resort’s website at www.skiwhitefish.com/uphill-policy.