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BESSEMER -- The Big Snow Country ski season kicked off Friday with opening day at the Indianhead Mountain Resort. Hundreds took to the slopes in the western U.P. for the first time this winter.

Indianhead opened its doors to skiers early Friday morning. Fifteen-year-old Jack Sarama traveled from Land O' Lakes, Wisconsin to be the first one down the hill for the second year in a row.

"I skipped school to be out here. I probably shouldn't say that, but it's a great time. I love skiing. It's what I do every weekend," said Sarama.

Throughout opening day, a couple hundred skiers tested their skills on the slopes for their first run of the season. The slopes and trails are in good shape, but much of the thanks goes to the hill's staff.

"We wish we had a little colder weather and a little more snow, but Mother Nature isn't helping us as much as she normally does, so we have to make the snow and do it ourselves," said Barry Bolich, General Manager and Executive Vice President for Indianhead.

The 640-foot Indianhead Ski Hill has been a popular U.P. skiing destination for more than 50 years. Bessemer business owners welcome the fresh influx of new and returning customers. Big Sno Outfitters opened its doors the previous weekend to prepare for Indianhead's opening day.

"As soon as God gives us snow, they come. They come from the central eight states to ski Indianhead, Big Powderhorn, and Blackjack," said Serwe.

Serwe sees around 5,000 advanced and novice skiers every season. He emphasizes the importance of a properly tuned ski for all skiers.

"It is important to have a good tune on a beginner ski as well as a racing ski. You've got to be sharp on the right places on the ski to stay in the course," Serwe said.

Conditions are likely to be much warmer this weekend to make for less than ideal skiing conditions, but Barry Bolich is not concerned.

"It slows us down for making snow, but it also gives our guests a great experience. If they can get out in the 30s and 40s and enjoy the warm weather, they really have a great time," Bolich said.

Indianhead Mountain Resort is only the first to open in Big Snow Country. The Blackjack and Big Powderhorn resorts open on December 14.