MT HOTHAM and Falls Creek kicked off their 2022 snow season a week early on Saturday, with lifts rolling and heavy snowfall greeting excited locals and visitors to the alpine resorts.

Mt Hotham Skiing Company general manager Nathan Butterworth said incredible snowfall and snowmaking conditions earlier in the week had allowed the resort to get its earliest opening in 22 years.

Both resorts opened with a snow depth of more than 40cms, which will continue to build with up to a metre of fresh snow forecast this week, providing an incredible base ahead of the traditional opening this long weekend.

Falls Creek Ski Lifts general manager Richard Phillips said it was a great feeling to be welcoming guests back, with the village buzzing with excitement.

Both resorts' lift tickets can only be purchased on line – check the Falls Creek and Hotham websites for more information.

PHOTO: Vail Resorts Australia