Copper Mountain has fired up the snowmaking machines as Colorado resorts prepare for the ski season.

Slope manager Mike Looney says temperatures have dropped low enough to ensure a good snow base.

According to the Summit Daily (http://tinyurl.com/9nvrkh6 ), A-Basin, Loveland and Keystone Resort are awaiting lower temperatures.

Fiscal 2012 was a difficult one for the ski industry. Total skier visits dropped more than 12 percent at some resorts.