The National Ski Areas Association reported that visits to resorts have generally remained strong despite a struggling economy, with some mountains reporting visits increasing 40 percent from last year's holiday period.

The Lakewood-based trade group said Colorado's Arapahoe Basin, Powderhorn and Winter Park have all experienced record-setting days this season.

Vail Resorts Inc., owner of Breckenridge, Vail Mountain, Keystone and Beaver Creek ski areas, plans to release early-season visitation tallies in the next few days.

The U.S. ski industry posted a record 60.5 million skiers visits last season.