SCOTTISH ski areas expect to remain open into May after heavy snowfall over the winter.
Ski-Scotland said the conditions were the best on Scottish mountains since 2014 with more than 202,000 visitors so far this season.
More snow is forecast for the slopes at CairnGorm Mountain, Glencoe Mountain, Glenshee, The Lecht and Nevis Range, with facilities likely to remain open through next month until customer numbers fade.
Some ski centres brought in "factories" to manufacture snow this season following a lack of the white stuff in 2016-17.
But the industry body said the number of skiers and snowboarders using facilities this year was close to the record 2013-14 season because of heavy snowfall.
Ski-Scotland chair Andy Meldrum said: "Right from the start of this season we have had brilliant snow and superb support from our customers.
"We have had some of the best bluebird days I've ever experienced in Scotland with blue skies, sunshine and fresh powder.
"Once spring does finally arrive with warm sun and daffodils blooming, people seem to believe there's no snow left for skiing or snowboarding.
"However, this really is the best time of year to come for a slide in the mountains with a much better chance of good overhead weather.
"It's also a really good time to learn, when the weather is kinder and slopes quieter. Just don't forget your sunblock."
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