BY KAREN BOSSICK

We could possibly break a record high temperature today, according to some weather forecasts.

But that won’t stop the “little mountain with a big heart” from finally launching its 2026 winter ski season.

The ski mountain three miles west of downtown Hailey plans to open the lower part of the mountain today. It will be open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. today—Saturday, Jan. 3. And the lift operation to mid-mountain will continue on Sunday, Jan. 4, weather permitting.

The new magic carpet, which is free for users, will not be operating this weekend as Rotarun staff continue to build a snow base around it.

Rotarun had hoped to open the day after Christmas; then, the day after New Year’s Day. But warm temperatures and precipitation that fell as rain rather than snow thwarted those plans.

Lower temperatures following Christmas have enabled the ski resort to blow more than 500,000 gallons worth of snow.

If Mother Nature cooperates, the ski area will offer free skiing from 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays and regular skiing from 6 to 9 p.m. Fridays and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.

Lift tickets cost $20 for adults 18 and older and $10 for youth 6 through 17. They’re free for children 5 and under.

Season passes for families, or tribes, cost $300. They’re $175 for individuals and $85 for youth.