While most of us are basking in the mild, sunny days of autumn, the folks at Mad River Mountain are crossing their fingers in hopes of chillier weather.

With snow guns locked and loaded, the ski and snowboard resort needs consistently colder climes to launch its snowmaking efforts and work toward opening for the 2024-25 season.

The ideal temperature for making snow is 27 degrees, according to Kelsey Megard, communications manager for Vail Resorts’ Midwest region. Other factors come into play, including humidity and wind speed/direction.

Though no official opening date has been announced, Mad River Mountain — located near Bellefontaine in Logan County, about 53 miles northwest of Columbus — will open long enough this weekend for an event to get snow buffs ready for that first foray into the powder.

At the resort’s annual Ski Swap, set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, attendees can score deals and steals on ski, snowboard and winter equipment for all ages. More than just a swap, it’s also a family-friendly festival with food trucks and more.

When Mad River Mountain officially opens, snow-goers may find lift tickets in short supply. Vail Resorts, which manages Mad River Mountain, is limiting lift ticket sales during the 2024-25 season to prioritize the mountain experience for guests. Purchasing lift tickets in advance is recommended.

Instead, a variety of passes can be purchased for different experiences at Mad River Mountain and access to other sites managed by Vail Resorts. (Vail Resorts operates more than 40 ski resorts in the United States, Canada, Australia and Switzerland.)

The Epic Day Pass can be tailored to fit your season plans. Build your own pass based on the number of days you plan to ski or ride (one to seven), whether you want access on restricted days and how many resorts you want access to.

With the Epic Day Pass, days can be used at any time during the season and do not have to be consecutive. Prices vary depending on which pass is selected.

The Ohio Epic Pass provides unlimited, unrestricted access to Mad River Mountain. Prices are $380 for ages 18-64, $300 for ages 7-17 and $119 for ages 65 and older.

For ages 5-12, the Epic Pass and Epic Local Pass offer child pricing. For ages 5-6, the Ohio Tot Pass and the Northeast Value Tot Pass are available at deep discounts. For kids 4 and younger, the Epic Pass is free.

​Prices will increase Nov. 17. For more information, go to epicpass.com/pass-results/passes.

About Mad River Mountain

Mad River Mountain boasts the largest snowmaking operation in Ohio, with more than 100 snow cannons that cover all of its trails.

With an elevation of 1,460 feet and a vertical drop of 300 feet, Mad River has 144 skiable acres, the most of any Ohio resort. There are 16 trails of various skill levels, a tubing park, four terrain parks and beginner areas.

Mad River Mountain is located 6 miles southeast of Ohio’s highest point, Campbell Hill.

For more information about Mad River Mountain, visit skimadriver.com, call 1-800-231-SNOW or email [email protected].