GILFORD — Snow was already on many people’s minds after this week's storm, and skiers and riders came out in full force for Gunstock Mountain Resort’s opening day Friday, to enjoy the slopes under bluebird skies.

“We are on track for a record day,” General Manager Robert Drake said on Friday afternoon. “We have more runs open for opening day than I think we have ever had before.”

Drake, who is in his second winter at the helm of the ski resort, said he has been hearing from longtime Gunstock skiers how pleased they were with early season conditions. He was excited to report there were three lifts and 13 trails open — including Middle Trigger — making it the only time the mountain has had a black diamond trail open to start the season.

The Panorama lift had a steady stream of skiers and

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