Natural snowfall returned – at last – to ski resorts in much of California during the last couple days. At Sugar Bowl, this was the scene at the resort this morning. (Sugar Bowl Resort photo)

After receiving up to 11 inches of new snow during the last two days, Royal Gorge will open once again on Saturday with 30 kilometers of groomed trails. The cross country ski area first opened for the season on Dec. 9, but closed earlier this month due to a lack of snow.

Royal Gorge’s Summit Station lodge will have ticket sales, food and beverage services, lessons and rentals. Lift tickets will be selling at the half-day rate.

Sugar Bowl, Royal Gorge’s sister resort in the Lake Tahoe area, is offering top-to-bottom skiing and riding with nearly a foot of new snow. Skiers and riders will have access to six chairlifts and 26 runs.

Forecasters are calling for sunny skies Saturday and Sunday, and cold overnight temperatures that will keep snow conditions ripe for skiing throughout the weekend.

Information: www.royalgorge.com, www.sugarbowl.com