With winter almost upon us, skiers and snowboarders are breaking out their gear and preparing to hit the slopes.

Four mountains will be open in Connecticut this weekend, all located within one hour of the University of Hartford campus.

**Mount Southington** in Plantsville, CT is opening its doors on Saturday, Dec. 13. First opening in 1964, they are celebrating their 50th anniversary this year. Located only 27 minutes from campus, Southington is offering lift tickets ranging in price from $34 to $56 depending on the day and time.

Season passes are $550 and equipment rentals are available. More information on Mount Southington is available on their website http://www.mountsouthington.com/ .

In New Hartford, CT, about a half an hour away from campus, **Ski Sundown** is preparing for a Dec. 13 opening as well. Lift tickets range from $37 to $58, with rates being separated by day and session times.

A season pass at Sundown is $599 and equipment rentals are available. They do not offer any college deals but riders can check out http://skisundown.com/ for group specials.

**Mohawk Mountain** in Cornwall, CT is 50 minutes away from campus. Also opening on Dec. 13, they are offering lift tickets for $30 on weekends and $60 on weekdays. Season passes are $639 and equipment rentals are available.

Mohawk holds college nights Monday through Thursday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Students who show their school ID can buy an unlimited all mountain lift ticket for a discounted price of $21. Find Mohawk online at http://www.mohawkmtn.com/ .

**Woodbury Ski Area** is 55 minutes away from campus and opened on Nov. 15. According to their office, lift tickets are $40 for the entire day, $25 for a session and their season passes are $349. Equipment rentals are available.

Woodbury office staff also said that they are offering a special deal for UHart students. In a group of four riders, if three pay the fourth person is free. Visit http://www.woodburyskiarea.com/winter/index.html for more.