Each year, Mile High Mamas embarks on a new ski resort adventure, and this year, we’re hitting our 30th destination at Powderhorn Mountain Resort on the northern edge of Grand Mesa, the world’s largest flattop mountain! Scroll down for great lodging options (and deals!) and be sure to check back later this month for our full trip report.
Welcome to Powderhorn Mountain Resort
Powderhorn Mountain Resort offers an ideal experience for families enjoying winter together just 45 minutes from Grand Junction. With over 1,600 acres of terrain suitable for all skill levels, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re a first-time skier or an experienced rider. Powderhorn’s family-friendly atmosphere includes easy access to beginner slopes, ski and snowboard lessons tailored to kids and adults, and a centralized base area ideal for meeting when you need a break. The relaxed pace and welcoming community make Powderhorn a perfect destination for making lasting memories with loved ones. Plus, with affordable pricing and a variety of family packages, you can enjoy an amazing day on the slopes without breaking the bank. Powderhorn truly is a place where families come to connect and enjoy the mountain together year after year.
Family Fun Events at Powderhorn
March 1 – West End Base Bash
Join us for a party at the base of the West End Lift from 11am – 2pm! We will have mini games, free hot dogs for passholders, and DJ Chandlebarr bringing the tunes. Grab your friends and family to enjoy the fun at this event! https://powderhorn.com/activities-groups/events/event/271-wild-west-end-party.html
March 8 – Snowball Sweepstakes
The Rotary Club’s Annual Snowball Sweepstakes, we’ll be rolling inflatable “snowballs” down Wonderbump in a chaotic, bouncy race to the bottom. If your numbered ball reaches the bottom first, you win the cash prize! https://powderhorn.com/activities-groups/events/event/429-snowball-sweepstakes.html
March 29 – Vintage Day 
Come and learn something new about the history of snow sports from some of our most dedicated locals! Personal collections will be displayed on the deck all day. https://powderhorn.com/activities-groups/events/event/434-vintage-day.html
April 6 – Pond Skim
Closing out the winter season is always bitter-sweet, so we add a bit of fun. Join us for the Annual Pond Skim; wear a crazy costume, give it your best shot, and have the camera rolling – this event is sure to make a splash! We will have a DJ for the event, free giveaways, and food! https://powderhorn.com/activities-groups/events/event/435-pond-skim.html
Activity options: winter
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing
A playground for cross-country skiing, there are over 30 miles of cross-country ski trails maintained by the Grand Mesa Nordic Council, including the Skyway, County Line, and Ward Trail systems. The Skyway system is especially challenging and offers access to a warming hut, perfect for thawing out chilly toes and fingers. The County Line system is family and dog-friendly, while the Ward system boasts the best backcountry Nordic skiing on the mesa. (Keep an eye out for motorized users when crossing snowmobile corridors.)
Snowshoers can enjoy all the same trails that are open to cross-country skiers. You’ll find a wider track for snowshoes next to the maintained ski trails.
Snowmobiling
If you’re looking for speed, Grand Mesa is a hub for all things snowmobile! Combine high-speed thrills with breathtaking vistas and you’ve got over 500-square-miles to explore. Because of its size, snowmobiling is arguably the best way to experience Grand Mesa’s expansive wintry landscape. An intricate network of snowmobile trails wind over and around the Grand Mesa, including the 120-mile-long Sunlight to Powderhorn Trail (SP Trail) stretching from Powderhorn Mountain Resort to Sunlight Ski Area near Glenwood Springs. Consider a guided tour or hourly rental from Mesa Lakes Lodge or Grand Mesa Lodge — both rustic cabin lodges can even accommodate sled heads overnight.
Fat Biking
There are plenty of options for those who are never ready for biking season to end too. Fat biking is another beautiful way to take in the grandeur of Grand Mesa in the winter. Fat bikes are can be ridden on any of the roads on the Mesa as well as snowmobile trails. Just remember to stay off the maintained cross-country ski trails!
Where to Stay in Powderhorn and Palisade, Colorado
Powderhorn x Palisade
Powderhorn is introducing its new Ski & Stay packages in nearby Palisade, “Colorado’s Last Undiscovered Ski Town”. These affordable and unforgettable packages are perfect for families, couples, and adventure-seekers. Visitors can expect a unique combination of Powderhorn’s exceptional terrain and views plus Palisade’s charming beauty and renowned wineries. Guests will enjoy discounted day tickets at Powderhorn, giving access to over 1,600 acres of skiing and riding, while staying at awesome yet affordable lodging options with local partners like the Spoke & Vine Motel, Wine Country Inn, The Homestead and Palisade Basecamp RV Resort. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or exploring the local restaurant and wine scene, these new Ski & Stay packages let visitors experience the wonders of quintessential Colorado skiing and the delights of Colorado’s last undiscovered ski town.
Spoke and Vine
About Spoke & Vine
This hip, reinvented motel features minimalist design with sustainable features; “this is not your grandpa’s motel,” according to its proprietors. Located within walking distance to Palisade’s wealth of fresh food, wine, beer, mead and fruit stands, Spoke & Vine is the perfect basecamp no matter your plans for adventure. All rooms are dog-friendly (up to two dogs per room), and options include five different room sizes and configurations.
About Wine Country Inn
Nestled amidst 21 acres of vineyards, Wine Country Inn in Palisade features 80 guest rooms and the Vintner’s Guest House. Wine Country Inn offers complimentary afternoon tastings of their private label wines (Grand River Vineyards), plus dining on-site, a seasonal outdoor pool and year-round hot tub. Rooms feature classic decor and comfortable furnishings, as well as carefully restored historic photographs throughout.
About The Homestead
A charming family-owned inn located in Palisade, The Homestead includes five charming guest rooms with different configurations. The property features majestic views of the Bookcliffs and Buzzard’s Roost to the south and the Colorado River flowing from DeBeque Canyon. Every inch of The Homestead was lovingly remodeled and upgraded and rooms are spacious, featuring thoughtful amenities and decor.
About Palisade Basecamp RV Resort
Nestled between fruit orchards and vineyards alongside the Colorado River at the base of the Palisade Plunge mountain bike trail, Palisade Basecamp is open year-round and offers full hook-up RV sites, riverside tent camping, and cozy cabins. The 14-acre resort is located one mile from historic downtown Palisade, and a short drive from Powderhorn Mountain Resort. Cabins are pet-friendly and feature three different configurations; they sleep up to four people.
Stay tuned for Mile High Mamas’ official trip report and start planning your next family vacation now at this affordable resort that is a great option for families and beginners!
Author: Mile High Mamas
