On Sunday, October 13, Colorado’s Arapahoe Basin took advantage of early season snowfall and excellent snowmaking conditions to become the first North American ski resort to open for the 2013/14 season. The hundreds of skiers and snowboarders who flocked to the resort were welcomed by soft snow, sunshine and the collective cheers of fellow comrades. Below are some of the best Instagram posts showcasing the festivities, which kicked off what we hope will be another “best winter ever.”