While we in the valley are anticipating spring, we are still watching the snow fall in the magnificent Blues. Ski Anthony Lakes, set high in the Elkhorn Range of the Blue Mountains in northeast Oregon, is often called a best-kept secret among downhill and Nordic skiers. But we have plenty of room to let the word out while maintaining lots of room on the mountain for everyone and short lift lines. Over the weekend, Anthony Lakes received lots of fresh powder snow, pushing the base depth to over 90 inches and over 110 at the top of the mountain. The air on the mountain is cold and dry, so the snow quality remains great. There are 30 K of Nordic trails available, as well. If you've never skied at Anthony Lakes, you owe it to yourself to give it a try. The scenery of the surrounding towering granite peaks is spectacular and you can even ski the back country with help from the snow cat. Go to www.anthonylakes.com for the latest conditions and event information. Go to www.visitlagrande.com for all of your lodging and dining choices in North Powder, Union and La Grande.