Facts and Stats: Base Elevation: 8,200 feet Summit Elevation: 9,850 feet Vertical Drop: 1,650 feet Skiable Area: 510 acres Annual Snowfall: 220 inches Number of Lifts: 4 Type of Lifts: 1 Poma Lift, 2 Double Chairs, 1 Quad Chair Number of Trails: 29 Longest Run: 11,600 feet Perched on the northern edge of Grand Mesa, this is the local hangout for Grand Junction skiers. The name was a natural: Because it's Colorado's westernmost ski area, Powderhorn is the first to funnel in storms riding off the Utah desert. The result is a reputation for immense quantities of fine, light snow.
Four lifts serve 510 acres and 1,650 vertical feet, and there are 12K of cross-country trails atop the mesa.
What's new this year: Renovations and expansions at the base lodges.
Ski & snowboard school: For ages 7 and up. Small classes, with special programs for children, women and seniors.
Special programs: Kids Klub, for youngsters ages 7 to 12, features snowboard races and activities. Senior Day, for those 56 and over, is Thursdays.
Racing programs: NASTAR is new this year, and there is a six-week business league where local businesses compete for prizes.
Women's programs: The Women's Ski Clinic is taught by women, for women. This four-week program concludes with a wine-and-cheese party.
Eats: Powderhaus is a slopeside cafeteria; Le Chalet offers a casual and intimate dining experience. Barbecue on the deck on sunny days is a popular option, with ribs, chicken and smoked sausage available.
Biggest event: The Rocky Mountain Small World Cup in March is a regional race for kids ages 3 to 6.
Children: The Children's Skiing Center caters to kids ages 2 to 6 with lessons and snow play designed to please even the most timid child. Powdercats and Snowcubs combine fun with private instruction. The four-week series ends with the Hot Chocolate Cup.