Vermont’s mountain resorts have seen a healthy amount of snow already this season.

“We've never been able to ski high backcountry terrain this early in the season,” said Stowe Mountain Rescue Chief Jon Wehse.

While the fresh powder has been a dream come true for some skiers and snowboarders, Wehse said it’s also led to more rescues, particularly involving people less experienced with winter sports.

Stowe has seen an “unprecedented” number of early-season rescues, said Wehse, who adds that social media and impulsive behavior are to blame.

On Dec. 1, Stowe Mountain Rescue shared a Facebook post detailing a recent rescue in which a lost skiing party said they had been inspired by TikTok.

Two 19-year-olds ventured into Vermont’s backcountry in the hopes of recreating an experience seen

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