Photo: @skipowderhorn
Escape the traffic and long lift lines this winter and discover some of the best tree skiing in Colorado at Powderhorn Mountain Resort. Just 45 minutes east of Grand Junction, Powderhorn is located on the Grand Mesa, the world's largest flat-top mountain.
Photo: @yogimagee
An average of 250 inches of airy powder covers the Grand Mesa each winter, which opens the door for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, downhill skiing, snowboarding, and even ice fishing.
Photo: @wareham_adv
The mountain has three lifts and a catwalk, including a high-speed quad lift. The lifts cover over 1,650 feet of elevation gain and access 45 runs with 20 percent green (beginner), 50 percent blue (intermediate) and 30 percent black (advanced/expert). Bear Claw, Mudslide and Cannonball are a few locals’ favorite runs.
Photo: @_liftedlifesociety_
Powderhorn is uber-affordable! Walk-up day passes range from $54-$109 depending on age and the day of the week and season passes are only $699 for adults (ages 13-74) and only $399 for juniors (ages 6-12). If you’re looking to earn your turns, an uphill ticket is only $19 a day or $59 for the season and requires an online reservation ahead of time. There are many backcountry trails to explore on, so it’s worth the effort.
Photo: @alaskajules
Besides easy access, great snow, and affordability, the other popular attribute that sets Powderhorn apart is the alpine tree skiing. Much of the resort is covered with pine trees and dense aspen groves, making for endless glade runs. Some of the best tree skiing on the mountain is accessed from the West End lift. Be sure to explore the Upper and Lower Thunderbird Glades, Mad Dog Glade and Thunder Mountain Glade for epic tree runs.
Photo: @fotophreak
Gain some sick style points at the terrain parks, one for beginners and one for experts. You can access the beginner terrain park (Lower Peace Park) by taking the Flat Top Flyer Chair lift. It’s filled with beginner boxes and rails, which are perfect for those looking to try freestyle out for the first time – no judging here! If you’re confident in your skills, take the Easy Rider Chair Lift or Flat Top Flyer lift to access the Upper Peace Park. This terrain park is loaded with advanced boxes and rails as well as a 3-jump line. It’s as fun to watch as it is launching your own perfect jump.
Photo: @hotel_maverick
After a long day shredding the gnar, take the quick and scenic 45-minute drive back to Grand Junction and choose from the affordable lodging and hundreds of vacation homes both Downtown and near I-70. Explore Grand Junction’s culinary scene, which features a James Beard-awarded chef and the hippest taco joint in Colorado. We promise your pallet won’t miss the over-priced options at other ski resort towns. With all the money you’ll save, you can afford to stay a few extra days or plan a couple of trips this winter! This is the Colorado you expect and the warm western hospitality you appreciate! One of the most frequent comments guests of the area say about Grand Junction is how friendly the locals are.
Photo: @krissanders1985
Located equidistant from Salt Lake City and Denver, Grand Junction is easily accessible by train, plane, automobile, or Bustang! With Grand Junction Regional Airport being the fourth largest airport in Colorado, you’ll find convenient flights which will help you avoid the highway gridlock that other Colorado ski areas are known for. Quick tip - Grand Junction is also only 2.5 hours from Telluride, making it the perfect basecamp for all of your winter adventures.
Find more winter skiing and snowboarding activities on page 30 of the Grand Junction Visitor Guide!