Hoppin' a ride on a snowcat to get off the piste and into the powder stashes of the backcountry is a popular pastime at Colorado resorts. But this season, there are fewer options than normal.

Taking a helicopter to find untouched powder isn't only for skiers and riders in Alaska or Canada: Plenty of runs can be had in the Lower 48, too.

Though the weather has been slow to cooperate, summer is indeed coming to the Colorado Rockies – and with it, tons of recreational diversions for all to enjoy.

Many skiers and snowboarders dream of hopping into a helicopter and heading into the deep backcountry for a day far outside the ropes. Alaska and western Canada remain the premier locales for heli-skiing, but the Lower 48 has its own quality selection.

Seniors, military personnel, college students, kids, Telemarkers, and yes, even Moms have their special days on snow.

Late-season storms have buoyed conditions at many Western resorts, but this recent largesse doesn’t appear to be enough to keep slopes open beyond announced closing dates.

The Colorado ski and ride season lasts well into spring with ample events and activities. This spring is no exception as resorts are offering a jam-packed lineup of celebrations, concerts, and contests with various types of on-snow and slope-side activities.

Following a slow, dry start to the season, the Pacific moisture express has arrived in Colorado, dropping fresh inches of fluffy powder at locations across the state. 

A just-released fall forecast by AccuWeather.com says the Rockies may be the place to be for early and mid-season as temperatures are expected to average 1-2 degrees below normal this fall.