A bevy of snow at the start of the month unlocked popular meadows and slopes for skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling in Colorado.

The U.S. Forest Service announced the start of the season for Vail Pass Winter Recreation Area. It’s an area spanning 55,000 acres off Interstate 70 and U.S. 24, spanning elevations near 9,200 feet at Camp Hale and toward the 12,693-foot top of Elk Mountain.

According to a Forest Service map and pamphlet, the area includes 50 miles of trails that are groomed when conditions allow and 67 miles open to motors. They are regarded as scenic trails for all interests and abilities — the Forest Service considers Vail Pass Winter Recreation Area “extremely popular.”

User fees “fund trail grooming, plowing, ranger patrols and visitor information services,” according to a news release. Day passes are $10 and season passes are $65 and can be purchased at trailheads.

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One access point is off I-70 exit 190 for Vail Pass Rest Area. Other trailheads are near Red Cliff and around Camp Hale off U.S. 24.

The recent news release advised those parking lots fill early on Fridays, weekends and holidays. The Forest Service also reminds visitors to check avalanche forecasts and to carry and know how to use rescue gear.

A trail map with descriptions can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/v6944uvx

For conditions and more information, call the Eagle-Holy Cross Ranger District (970-827-5715) or the Dillon Ranger District (970-468-5400).

Vail Pass Winter Recreation Area’s season typically runs through May, or as long as snow allows.