Although it’s a lesser known Colorado ski area, Purgatory Resort offers a consistent mix of dry powder, fewer crowds, a relaxed vibe, affordability (thanks to their dynamic ticket pricing system), and access to a vibrant base village near historic Durango.

Skiers will find 1,600 to 1,635 skiable acres, with a variety of terrain including wide-open cruisers, steep tree skiing, and terrain parks. As it is only about 25 miles north of Durango, the resort also offers great access to a vibrant mountain town.

The most noteworthy terrain:

Columbine Area (Green) – this is a zone specifically designed for beginners, featuring the Columbine and Graduate chairs.

Mercy (Green) – Once beginners are ready to head higher up the mountain, they can check out this long, cruisey green.

Divinity and Columbine Trails (Green) – these easy, half-mountain groomers are accessible from Chair 4 and provide good terrain for beginners to continue developing their skills.

Legends (Blue) – this classic, wide-open groomer is perfect for intermediates to practice and gain more speed.

Dead Spike (Blue) – this is a great option for intermediates looking for a challenge, with a mix of groomed and more difficult sections.

Styx & Pandemonium (Black and Double Black) – these challenging runs are known for their steepness, moguls, and powder.

Monkey Gully, Monkey Brains and Monkey Launch Chutes (Double Black) – this is extreme, unpatrolled terrain that offers serious challenges off Lift 6.

Where to park:

Purgatory Resort offers free parking in the Main Village Lot and Overflow Lot. There is also a free shuttle service running from the overflow areas to the base of the mountain.

Where to eat on mountain:

Dante’s Backside Bistro – located on the backside of the mountain, this restaurant offers full table service, great views, and European-inspired food.

Dante’s Cafe – this cafeteria style spot offers quick burgers, soups, and other foods.

The Powderhouse – this classic mountain bar features a cafe menu and a deck grill. It is accessible via Lift 1, Purgatory Express and Lift 2, Engineer.

Purgy’s Slopeside Restaurant – located at the base of the Purgatory Village Express (Lift 1), this restaurant offers a gastropub experience in a mountain setting, serving burgers, sandwiches, chili, baked potatoes, salads, and more.

Where to eat in the town:

Steamworks Brewing Company – this industrial-style pub serves craft brews and grub.

El Moro Spirits and Tavern – this restaurant offers new American bites in a rustic-chic setting.

Where to stay:

Purgatory Village Condo Hotel – this spot offers central lodging in Purgatory Village with shops, restaurants, and easy access to the slopes.

Purgatory Lodge at Durango Mountain Resort – this is on-site lodging near Sheol Street and offers village amenities.

Events happening at Purgatory Resort this winter:

New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks – this event consists of ski instructors and patrollers skiing down the mountain with torches and a fireworks show at the base of the mountain.

Snowcat dining and snowcat adventures – Purgatory offers a variety of snowcat activities, including scenic snowcat tours, snowcat skiing for advanced skiers, and snowcat dining excursions including mountain-top meals with stunning views.

Other things to do during your visit:

Durango Hot Springs – this spot is perfect for soaking sore muscles after a day at the ski hill. Find more than 30 natural mineral spas and a great view.

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