Skiers and riders from the listed counties will receive a free lift ticket and rental equipment for just $5 dollars. The free ski day is designed to allow skiers to come out and experience the new upgraded Treetops conditions, which includes newly renovated lifts and buildings, improved snow grooming and trails, and lots of fresh snow. Residents from these counties also qualify for an extreme discount on Treetops season ski pass. Friday is the last day to purchase the extremely discounted ski pass. Activities planned for opening day will begin at 11:50 a.m. when skiers can make the season's first run down the hill. Later in the day they will open and dedicate a new run, "Al's Bypass" in memory of Al Weiland, one of northern Michigan's most prominent NASTAR skiers. In addition, there will be chair massages in the warming house, a hayride, free NASTAR clinic, and a visit by Santa Claus.