This year, cooler conditions and increased snowfall have caused Oregon ski areas to open earlier than expected.

For some, it’s the first time they’ve opened in more than a decade.

That goes for Mt. Hood Meadows, which begins its 57th season on Friday with a soft-launch opening. Other resorts, including Timberline and Mt. Bachelor, have also announced their plans to open this season early.

The National Weather Service says a La Niña winter is coming, and signs point to better snow cover this year.

Mount Hood Meadows President and General Manager Greg Pack says they typically film on Thanksgiving Day, but often don’t open until around the first week of December.

He said Friday’s opening marks the earliest opening of the resort in 15 years.

“You know all of us who work at Meadows, like we like to ski and ride horses too,” Pack said. “We have trained returning team members and new team members already at the resort so everything is ready to go.”

This weekend’s preview includes the resort’s Buttercup, Easy Rider and Daisy south side lifts, as well as the Ballroom Carpet conveyor belt.

By mid-week, Pack said, the resort has received 19 inches of snow. The resort will fully reopen on November 21.

Mt. Bachelor also plans to open Friday through Sunday only to season pass holders. This is the resort’s first opening in 26 years. It will reopen to the general public on November 22.

Timberline is already open for the season.