Bring on the powder: Ski resort traffic steady if not spectacular this season.

• Author: Cote, Maria

Die-hard skiers might be a little frustrated by the lack of snow in 2011. but not enough to keep them off the mountains, say the pros in Telluride, Vail, Winter Park and other towns.

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While conditions aren't ideal, the traffic up 1-70 has been steady, according to reports from communications directors at resorts around Colorado.

Though final figures weren't in for 2011, Colorado Ski Country communications director Jennifer Rudolph says she's heard it's been a mixed bag for resorts around the state.

"The weather certainly plays a significant role," says Rudolph, adding that the trade association represents 22 resorts. "Some are breaking records; others are holding their own."

The kinds of deals and discount packages that resorts have been offering to lure skiers up to the mountains during hard times an: still in place, she says.

"Those vacation specials really helped them."

Those deals have certainly helped keep vacationers flowing into Breckenridge.

"We've seen roughly the same number of visitors as we had the year before, or even slightly more," says Rachel Zerowin, with the Breckenridge Resort Chamber. "'We're looking forward to February and especially March, which is one of the snowiest months in Colorado. We're expecting those to be good months."

And if the snow conditions get you down, she says, there are still plenty of reasons to head for the hills.

"It's been unseasonably warm, and the weather has been simply beautiful, so it's a good time to get outside," she says. "Even if you're not skiing with the same fervor, Breckenridge is a great destination."

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Valentine's Day, Mardi Gras and spring break all draw crowds to resorts up in the mountains, and for die savvy consumer, there are plenty of deals out there.

Winter Park Resorts draws families who return year after year for lodging deals and free activities, says Mistalynn Lee, communications manager for the resorts.

"We have a free daily activity through the season," Lee says, listing activities like smores by the fire and music. "You have powder, sunshine, and in the spring warmer temperatures that draw families outside."

Valentine's Day brings some sweet deals at mountain resorts. Stay at the Lodge at Sunspot in Winter Park, for instance, and you can sign up for champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries and a romantic gondola ride for two for $25.

If the specials on room rates and the skiing...