SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. — Kirkwood Mountain Resort will honor 2011/2012 season passes from any resort for two “preview weekends” beginning this Friday, according to a Monday statement.

The resort will offer limited terrain as well as rentals, retail and food and beverage options this Friday through Sunday.

Krikwood will then close midweek before reopening Dec. 2-4, according to the statement.

The resort anticipates beginning full winter operations Dec. 9, but the date may be moved if the area receives significant snowfall.

On Friday the lower mountain will open with Chair 5 operating and Race Course open for skiing and riding. Lower Zachary is also expected to open at some point during the weekend, weather and snow permitting.

Chair 11 is slated for operation during the second preview weekend.

For adult non-pass holders, lift tickets will be available for $29. Reduced children, youth and senior prices are also available.

The resort intends to open Chair 6 and is ready to quickly move to seven day a week operations as soon as snow permits.     

“The preview weekends are a great opportunity to come out and get a first taste of winter, and also to experience all of the exciting enhancements that have taken place through the Fall here at Kirkwood — a remodeled Mountain Club with an enhanced ticket office, guest service area and rental/repair shop and an exciting new menu at Monte Wolfe's,” said Kirkwood CEO Dave Likins, in the statement.