PRINCETON - After a week of biting cold temperatures across Massachusetts, skiers and snowboarders hit the slopes of Wachusett Mountain Sunday evening, celebrating what some said feels like old times.

Coldest week in years

"It's a blast! You've got to dress right, but it's pretty good," said Brett, a snowboarder at the ski resort. 

This past week was one of the coldest weeks New England has seen in years and the harshest week of winter thus far, kicking off with several inches of snow in much of Massachusetts.

"Compared to what we saw last year, with the freeze-thaw cycle, hot cold and all the rain and what not, it's definitely starting to feel like a true New England winter now," said Alex Arcangeli, Wachusett Mountain's lift manager. "So, we're seeing a lot of guests come out. They're excited to ski, excited to get some fresh snow."

Prefer skiing in colder weather

Some people told WBZ-TV, they actually prefer skiing in colder temperatures.

"Honestly yeah. Because you get really hot," said Bre, a guest at the resort.

"Once you get on the slopes, on the hills, you start to warm up for sure and it becomes more comfortable," said another guest.

Instead of traveling to a beach far away from New England to celebrate his birthday, Vinnie Timauro told WBZ-TV he opted to hit the slopes instead. "I think that this is the most fun way to do it. It's better than being locked up inside."

According to these guests, finding ways to stay warm is just part of the fun experience on the mountain. 

"You do a couple runs, then come down, hang out with some friends by the fire." said Brett, a snowboarder on the hill.