The parade of meaningful snow storms is marching on, and that means fresh, natural snow is now plentiful. Across the regions, resorts are opening glades, upping trail counts and overlaying the excellent man made base that has pretty much been our salvation the first part of this season.

Best of all, all this new snow turns our ski towns into the glistening snow globe world we so desire.

Snow and I have a lifetime love affair, and its absence did indeed make my heart grow fonder. As I skied down fresh, pristine trails at Sugarloaf, Maine the other day, I couldn’t help but – time and time again – spread my arms wide and hoot with joy. My ski pals joined in, of course.

Knock wood, pray to Ullr and toss salt over your shoulder when thawing your front steps: We want this to last.

While it’s here my best advice is this: Just get at it already.

But here’s a caveat: the snow arrived at the same time the busiest time of the season hits. School vacation weeks – Massachusetts first and New Hampshire the following week (plus a three-day weekend for most all) amps up the crowds at most every resort.

That means navigating a ski trip, be it a day trip, overnight or even longer, means paying a little extra attention to the where, when and how’s of your ski escape.

Here are some of my must-dos when planning a February ski escape.

Call, click and plan ahead: Sure, there’s something magical about waking up to a stunning mountain snow report (you may get that this coming Sunday when many New England resorts are projecting well over a foot of new snow), and we should never not go with our passion last minute.

But planning ahead – when you can – saves money, time and even some grief. First, in today’s era of busy ski resorts, if you need rentals of any kind, you’re going to want to reserve ahead of time to be sure they have what you need. Often, resorts will let you fill out paperwork online ahead of time as well, cutting down on the schlep to the hill that first morning.

Lift tickets should always be purchased ahead of time. You’ll save money (even if it’s just $5 per ticket, saving is saving). But even more important is this: Some ski areas actually sell out now, something you should celebrate since it cuts down at least a bit on crowded trails and lift lines.

Lessons should be booked in advance as well, as they also fill up quickly this time of year. In other words: Spontaneity is great, but these coming weeks, save it for dancing at the apres bar.

Where to go? Choose wisely: Of course we all want a short drive, particularly for a day trip. But during busier times, you may want to think a bit off the guided path. Rather than head to the big name everyone knows, consider checking out some of the region’s less known spots.

Check out the list of resorts who are members of the Indy Ski Pass (www.indyskipass.com/). For the most part, they tend to be the lesser-known spots that can stay a little less busy (though even they will be busier this time of year). Magic Mountain in Vermont (https://magicmtn.com/) is a great example. Close to some big, beautiful and well-known spots, Magic offers a kind of throwback vibe and while somewhat smaller, skis big. Consider finding a new spot this time of year.

But that doesn’t mean the big names are a bad idea. Hit them up, just do it with a smart plan. Wachusett Mountain (www.wachusett.com/) in Massachusetts is always a big draw this time of year. With their fast and efficient lifts, great food and apres vibe and top-ski school, it’s no wonder (never mind it’s so close to the city you can see the Boston skyline from one trail).

Yearning to go now that the snow is sweet? Take a look at their “session tickets,” giving you four different time slots to mix, match or choose from. I’d suggest calling ahead of time and speaking to a live person. Share what day you are hoping to visit and ask them what times of day or best to ski on that particular day. For less crowds, consider first chair or lunchtime, which tend to see a tiny bit of let up on crowds.

Remember your safety rules: It’s busier than ever out there and that’s even more reason to review – for yourself and your family – the Skier Safety Code. Make sure you all understand that anyone ahead of you on any trail is your responsibility to keep safe (just like in a car; hit anyone from behind and it’s on you). Remind your family about proper speed and timing on beginner trails, as well as the 15-foot distance rule. Safety matters, and the only way skiing works well is with us all cooperating, helping and making the right choices. And while we are here: Wear a helmet. Period.

The snow is finally here, get at it.