Alpine skiing

The Lookout Pass Free Ski School is giving kids ages 5 to 18 who have never skied or snowboarded before a head start with classes from 10 a.m. to noon Dec. 13 and 20. The school will also give two six-week classes, with the first session beginning Dec. 27. Info: (208) 744-1392.

Mission Ridge will be opening its slopes today, but there will be limited access. Because of a lack of snow, only Chair One and Pika Peak will be open. Info: (509) 663-6543.

Schweitzer Mountain Resort is holding an El Nino Blowout Party Saturday for its season grand opening. Leave your good equipment at home. The slopes are still pretty rough. Info: (208) 163-0775.

Nordic skiing

With the lack of snowfall, Nordic skiing is not looking good so far this season. But minimal grooming has taken place in the Methow Valley at Silver Mountain. Info: 996-3287.

Cross country trails will be closed to the public at Mt. Spokane Ski Area this weekend for the Wild Moose Continental Cup Dec. 13-14. The trails include Valley View, Brian’s Hill, Blue Jay, Silver, Hemlock, Sam’s Swoop and the Teaching Area. Info: 535-4757.

Snowmobiling

Mt. Spokane has reported that the snowmobiling is pretty rough and trails haven’t been groomed.

Beaver Lodge grooming is scheduled for Dec. 15.

, DataTimes