RUMFORD – The newly transformed Black Mountain of Maine ski resort opens at 9 a.m. Friday, a full week earlier than usual.

People will see a new, larger ski lodge, more trails, new chairlifts, and several newly built support buildings, along with many new faces.

Skiers will have a chance to try out the new chairlift and two novice trails of 1,110 feet each.

“It’s the beginner terrain to reintroduce people to skiing,” said Terrie Ann Bennett, newly hired general manager of the mountain.

The cross-country trails and steeper Alpine trails are expected to open during Christmas week, she said. This year, the Alpine trails will go all the way to the top of the mountain.

People who have already ordered season passes for skiing or tubing can pick them up, as well as have their pictures taken for the ID tag. Season passes will also be on sale.

Black Mountain-jacketed crew will greet skiers at the double doors of the base lodge and point them in the right direction. Community members are also invited to drop by and take a look at the many changes that have been made since Maine Winter Sports bought the mountain.

Also new this year is the ban on the use of tobacco throughout the buildings and grounds of the mountain, a program Bennett believes is the first in the nation.

Beginning on Friday and through Sunday, people can meet the ski school instructors and learn about the variety of programs offered throughout the season. On Saturday, Seth Fournier, race director, will hold an open house for those ages 7-18 who may want to train or learn more about ski racing.

A more formal open house to introduce the community to the upgraded ski area is being planned for Dec. 28.