Purgatory Mountain Ski Resort

Briefly called Durango Mountain Resort, Purgatory is situated deep in the San Juan Mountains, full of fast, rolling groomers. The landscape around Purgatory is also among the most scenic around. And lift tickets are reasonably priced to not break the bank.

This southwest resort is great for families and folks of all abilities, who want to enjoy great skiing, a laid-back atmosphere, and beautiful winter weather. Purg is a fun, 1300-acre ski resort surrounded by some of the nicest landscapes in Colorado, 30 minutes north of downtown Durango on Highway 550. The ski terrain is full of groomed cruisers, which are always enjoyable.

Terrain

Durango Ski Area — Durango is full of rolling hills spread across the mountain.

The mountain was carved by glaciers and is full of long, rolling runs. Offering 1,360 skiable acres and a 2,029 ft vertical, Durango has plenty of mountains to keep you entertained. There is a good mix of terrain available with intermediate trails making up about half of the terrain. Beginners will find most of the gentle greens conveniently situated near the base at Purgatory Village.

Experts will have an easier time since most of the advanced runs are only single black diamonds. You’ll find a few steeps off Legends Lift and several other expert trails mixed throughout the mountain. There are a total of 88 runs.

Freestyle skiers and riders can choose from five terrain parks: Paradise Freestyle Arena, Pitchfork Terrain Garden, Divine Comedy, Animas City Adventure Park, and the Pinkerton Starter Park.

Village

Durango Mountain Resort — Purgatory Plunge Zipline departs from the tower.

Purgatory Village is located at the base of the mountain. It’s a nice mountain village, with plenty of places to eat, shop and stay. The base is full of people relaxing in the sun and watching skiers come down the hill from one of the many lawn chairs around. Food, beer, and lodging are reasonably priced in the village.

The base of the mountain offers other winter activities including the Snow Coaster Tubing Hill, Alpenglow snowshoe tours, and the Nordic Center. There’s even a Purgatory Plunge Zipline in the base area, open during the winter.

The old west town of Durango is located 25 miles south of the resort. Durango has everything you need, restaurants, lodging, and shopping. This historic town is full of things to do year-round.

Read about the best hotels in Durango.