SOMERSET, Pa. -- Ski season is officially under way in the Alleghenies. And with more snow expected in the forecast this year, local businesses are hoping to cash in.

"Snow is economic stimulus," said Ron Aldom, executive director of the Somerset County Chamber of Commerce.

Thousands of skiers make their way to Somerset County every winter to hit the slopes. Restaurants, hotels and gas stations all feel the trickle-down effect. Mark Miller, who owns the Pine Grill Restaurant, said on a good winter weekend, 25 to 30 percent of his business comes down from the mountains. But even some unexpected businesses get a boost.

"Even the hospital when there's a good ski season," said Aldom.

After poor conditions last year kicked off the ski season on a downhill, it's all eyes on this weekend's forecast with more than 800 local hotel rooms and dozens of restaurants hoping this holiday ski season is a gift to them.

"I'm optimistic," said Miller.

"The accumulation is supposed to be a lot more, which means a potentially a great ski season, which means a great economic season for Somerset County," said Aldom.