The lifts had been due to start operating from Wednesday

But resort operators have announced the lifts will not be opened until Monday.

A lack of snow forced the decision, with only small coverage on the mountains.

"While we look forward to welcoming guests to Falls Creek and seeing skiers and boarders making their first turns, due to current snow conditions we have made the difficult decision to delay opening the ski lifts at Falls Creek and Hotham until Monday 29 June," a statement said.

"With promising snowmaking windows ahead and natural snowfall in the forecast, we will have lifts spinning as soon as possible."

Lifts are expected to open at Mt Buller later this week, depending on conditions.

The season has already been hampered by coronavirus restrictions, with police urging those planning to visit the snow to read up on the changes.

Visitor numbers are capped, resort entry must be pre-purchased and restrictions have been placed on dining.

Senior Sergeant Doug Incoll said people needed to be well prepared when heading to the snow, particularly those undertaking back country skiing.

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There have been back country skiing deaths in recent years and popularity in the sport is growing.

In one recent incident on June 7, a 12-year-old boy had the skin on his knee degloved after hitting a rock while jumping into snow off Ropers Track near Falls Creek.

Police regularly respond to snow rescue incidents.

"Generally we're advising people to let us know when they go," Senior Sergeant Incoll said of those going into the back country.

"There are trip intention forms at the bottom of Mt Feathertop and Mt Bogong.

"If there's a mishap, that lets us know people's plans.

"We haven't had any search and rescue events so far this year but people need to know what they're doing, be experienced, be well prepared and assess whether they should be going out at all."

He said people also needed adequate food and shelter, an emergency position indicating beacon, and should stay put if they get lost.

Police began 24 hour operations on the mountains yesterday and will have a full time presence until the end of the season.

They will be checking for snow chains and that people are following restrictions.

Rain and snow is forecast to fall at Mt Hotham on Thursday.

Rain and snow is also forecast to land at Falls Creek on Thursday, but with much higher temperatures.