2026-01-02T17:00:00-07:00
* WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 5 and 10 inches with locally higher amounts possible. * WHERE...Grand and Battlement Mesas and Uncompahgre Plateau and Dallas Divide above 8500 feet. * WHEN...Until 5 PM MST Friday. * IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult. The hazardous conditions could impact the Thursday evening and Friday morning commutes.
Powderhorn Resort Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: January 1, 2026
It’s a snowy start to 2026 at Powderhorn Resort, but skiers will need to hold off just a bit longer before hitting the slopes. Powderhorn Resort in Colorado, United States is a great destination for beginner and intermediate skiers.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
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°F
mph
Wind
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Humidity
Summary
As of January 1, the snowpack rests at just 9 inches—nearly 69% below average—making for limited base conditions across the mountain. Overnight temps hovered just above freezing at 32.7°F, keeping the snow soft but also raising concerns about long-term retention. Despite the shallow base, hope is on the horizon: the forecast shows 1.77" of new snow expected in the next 24 hours, and up to 12" over the next five days, which could greatly improve terrain coverage if conditions hold.
However, Powderhorn Resort remains closed for now, with no confirmed opening date. Recent headlines cite operational delays following an electrical malfunction that left lift riders temporarily stranded, along with ongoing legal challenges halting snowmaking infrastructure. Adding to the transition, the resort has just been sold to Utah-based Pacific Group Resorts, with plans for slopeside tiny homes and a new chairlift replacement in discussion. After a festive New Year's Eve torchlight parade, locals are eagerly watching the skies and waiting for Mother Nature—and management—to give the green light for ski season to officially begin.
Weather Forecast
Seasonal Comparison
Year over year snow water equivalent
Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) shows how much water the snow holds. This is ideal for year-to-year tracking of real snowfall and water resources. Measurements from Mesa Lakes.
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured from Mesa Lakes
Snowpack depth measures how much snow has accumulated in the area. This is a key indicator of powder quality, trail coverage, and how epic your runs are going to be this season at Powderhorn Resort.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Powderhorn Resort
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Powderhorn Resort impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
Powderhorn Resort is located in the Grand Mesa region of Colorado and is surrounded by several mountain ranges and prominent peaks. The resort itself sits at the base of the Grand Mesa, which is the largest flat-topped mountain in the world. The Grand Mesa is a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
Other nearby mountain ranges include the West Elk Mountains to the south, the San Juan Mountains to the southwest, and the Rocky Mountains to the east. These ranges provide stunning views and diverse terrain for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.
Some of the notable peaks in the area include Mount Gunnison, Mount Sneffels, and Mount Wilson. These peaks offer challenging terrain for advanced skiers and snowboarders, as well as opportunities for backcountry skiing and snowboarding.
Overall, Powderhorn Resort offers a unique mountain experience with access to a variety of terrain and stunning mountain vistas.
The resort boasts 1,600 acres of ski terrain with over 40 trails. The best trails are considered to be Lower Dude, a long and winding blue run, and Bill's Run, which is a favorite of the locals. An interesting fact about Powderhorn is that it is one of the oldest ski resorts in Colorado, dating back to 1966. For beginner skiers, the resort has an excellent ski school which offers private and group lessons. As for après ski, the Powderhorn Pub is a popular spot for drinks and food, with a cozy atmosphere and great views of the mountain.
Night Skiing | No |
Lift Count | 4 Lifts |
Hourly Lift Capacity | 4370 per hour |
Base Elevation | 2499 Meters |
Terrain Park | Yes |
Acreage | 1600 Acres |
Established | 1966 |
Run Count | 29 Trails |
Powderhorn Resort FAQ
How much snow did Powderhorn Resort receive over the past day?
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Powderhorn Resort today?
Weather today, snow showers, mainly before 2pm. high near 30. west southwest wind around 5 mph. chance of precipitation is 90%. new snow accumulation of 1 to 2 inches possible.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Powderhorn Resort this week?
Powderhorn Resort is expected to receive up to 6.79" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
What are ski area conditions in Colorado like right now?
Steamboat Springs and the surrounding Routt National Forest are primed for the heaviest snowfall over the next five days, with Dry Lake and Elk River sensors forecasting 13 inches, and nearby Tower projecting 12 inches. These areas feed directly into Steamboat Ski Resort, making it the top pick for powder chasers. Rabbit Ears Pass and Scotch Creek are also expecting ... Read more
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