We have put together a list of everything you need to know about Purgatory Resort.
Table of Contents
Purgatory Resort Overview
Purgatory Resort is a well-liked destination for skiing. The resort is nestled in the San Juan Mountains of southwest Colorado, roughly 25 miles to the north of Durango's historic town. Purgatory is known for consistent, dry powder and is a true heaven for intermediate to advanced riders.
Ski Terrain
- Beginner runs: 20%
- Intermediate runs: 45%
- Advanced runs: 30%
- Expert runs: 5%
- Total ski runs: 105
- Terrain Parks: 4
Mountain Statistics
- Summit elevation: 10,822 feet
- Skiable area: 1,605 Acres
- Average Snowfall: 260 inches
Purgatory Resort Trail Map
Purgatory Resort Lift Tickets
Purgatory has several lift pass options including day lift tickets and Season Passes. Below is a breakdown of the lift passes and the key differences between the passes.
Day Lift Ticket
It is recommended to buy day lift tickets online to receive the best price.
Power Pass
The Power Pass offers unlimited access to Purgatory Resort and 8 other mountains, including Hesperus, Brian Head and Snowbowl. The pass also gives you 7 free days at Valle Nevado and 3-day access at the partner resort at Loveland Ski Area, Monarch Mountain and Sundance Resort.
- Additional Benefits: Unlimited uplift access for year-round biking at Spider Mountain Bike Park. Get discounted online tickets and on-mountain services.
- Ideal for: If you are planning to ski a lot at Purgatory Resort and explore the other mountains.
12-Day Power Pass
The 12-Day Power Pass is the same as Power Pass except it only gives you a total of 12 days to ski at Purgatory, Snowbowl, and Lee Canyon with blackout dates.
4-Day Power Pass
The 4-Day Power Pass gives you a total of 4 days at Purgatory, Snowbowl, Brian Head Resort, Lee Canyon, and Spider Mountain Bike Park with blackout dates. It also gives you 3-day access to Monarch Mountain and unlimited access to Hesperus, Sipapu & Pajarito, and restricted access to Nordic Valley and Willamette Pass.
- Additional Benefits: Get discounted online tickets and on-mountain services.
- Ideal for: If you are planning to ski for 4 days at Purgatory Resort and explore the other mountains.
My Weekday Pass
My Weekday Pass gives you unlimited skiing at Purgatory Resort on weekdays with blackout dates.
- Additional Benefits: Get discounted online Purgatory tickets.
Ideal for: If you are planning to ski Purgatory a lot on weekdays.
The Parent Share Pass is for parents with kids ages 3 and younger to share one pass. This pass offers unlimited ski access to Purgatory. Birth certificate required.
- Additional Benefits: Get discounted online Purgatory tickets.
- Ideal for: Family with kids under 3.
* For kids 12 and under and seniors ages 75 and above are eligible to ski for free at Purgatory and the other 8 small mountains plus unlimited uplift access at every Power Pass bike park.
Purgatory Ski and Snowboard Lessons
Purgatory Ski and Snowboard School offer group and private lessons as well as longer learning programs for all ability levels.
- Group Lesson: This is a small group lesson catered for a specific ability level for ages 4+. A full-day lesson is available for ages 4-6 and a half-day lesson for ages 7-12. Free lift tickets can be picked up at the ticket office for kids 12 and under. Adult (13+) half-day lesson is also available and tickets are not included in the lesson.
- Private Lesson: This is a customized private lesson of 2,3 or 5 hours.
- Multi-Week Programs: Lil’s Burners (ages 4-6) and Snowburners (ages 7-12) is an 8-week program for skilling and snowboarding skill development. The Dev Team (ages 6-12) is a 12-week program for advanced skiers and snowboarders to explore blue trails and beyond. The Women’s Clinics and the Men’s Clinics are 8-week programs open to all ability levels.
Lessons do not include rentals and reservations are required. Lessons are limited so it is recommended that you book at least 72 hours in advance.
Nearest Town to Purgatory Resort
The nearest town to Purgatory Resort is Durango, Colorado. It's approximately 25 miles to the south of the resort and provides a variety of lodging, dining, and shopping options, as well as additional recreational activities.
On Mountain Dining
Purgatory Resort offers a few on-mountain dining locations.
Located at the base of the resort, offering burgers, steak, fish and vegetarian dishes.
Opening hours (subject to change): 10:30 am-8 pm (Tue - Sat), 10:30 am-4:00 pm(Sun, Mon)
Located at Purgatory Lodge serves burgers, grills, local craft beer and more.
Opening hours (subject to change): 11 am-4 pm
Located at the base of the resort village, the restaurant serves pizza, wings, salads and more.
Opening hours (subject to change): 11 am-9 pm
Purgatory Resort Contact Information
Address: 1 Skier Pl, Durango, CO 81301, United States
Phone number: (970) 385-2100 ext. 0
Email: info@purgatory.ski
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there ski packages to Purgatory Resort?
There are no ski vacation packages to Purgatory Resort as it is a smaller ski resort. That being said, there are ski vacation packages to most ski resorts in Colorado.
When is the best time to go skiing in Purgatory Resort?
Generally, February to March is the best time to go skiing in Purgatory Resort as this is when Colorado receives the most snowfall. You are also able to enjoy skiing with lower crowd levels.
What amenities are available at Purgatory Resort?
Purgatory has the basic amenities including a ski school, a rental shop, a few dining options, and parking lots. They also offer a free shuttle service from the arrival court to both Upper and Lower Columbine parking lots, the Columbine beginners area, and the Gelande overflow parking lot.
How much does it cost to rent ski equipment at Purgatory Resort?
The standard ski/snowboard package at Purgatory is $45 per day for adults and $35 for children. Rental helmets are available from $11 per day. Please keep in mind that prices for holiday dates are higher and are subject to change. For the most up-to-date pricing, please visit the official website.
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