DULUTH - Snow is just what local skiers and snowboarders are hoping for.  They got some runs in at Spirit Mountain before the big game.  After the weather slowed business in January, Duluth’s popular ski hill is hoping for a turnaround this month.

Skiers and snowboarders took advantage of a perfect day for a run down the slopes.  "It’s just fun to go down the hill and let loose a little bit," said Sam Wanta of Duluth.  "It’s a good way to get away from everything, I just feel free out on the hill," said Steve Stupak of Duluth.  "And it's not 25 below so it's a good day," said Scott Nelson of Duluth.

It was also a good snow day.  Spirit Mountain spokesperson Briana Johnson says the conditions are great!  "The snow conditions are really nice today because of the cool weather," Johnson said.  "There is a lot more snow in places like the terrain park but overall we have about a 30–60 inch base right now."  A welcome sight after January brought rain and bitter cold temperatures; slowing their business.  "January was a little tough, February is off to a really good start and we are really hopeful that we have a good strong February and March left ahead of us," said Johnson.

Every season, Johnson says Spirit Mountain sees about 250,000 skiers and snowboarders.  "There are a lot of people that come through here," Johnson said.  "We’d love to top our numbers from last year, unfortunately January didn't shape up like we thought it would so we are hoping to stay on par and next year maybe have some better weather."

But its size longer runs and location makes this ski hill a hot spot for locals.  "It’s very convenient," said Nelson.  "It’s in the city limits for crying out loud, I mean, a hop, skip and a jump," said Chuck Carlberg of Duluth.  "Today is good skiing; we've had a really good time."  "It’s one of my favorite places to be," said Lauren Esselstrom of Duluth.

The March pass sale at Spirit Mountain kicks off in a couple weeks.  If you buy next years season pass, you ski for free this March.  Passes start at $139.