Purgatory is located a short 30-minute drive from downtown Durango, Colorado, and is the perfect place to plan your Southwest ski vacation. With over 1,635 skiable acres, numerous activities and countless events, Purgatory is a go-to winter destination. We’ve got something for everyone!
Settle In
Stay close to the action and book your lodging at Purgatory Resort. You’ll find yourself only steps away from the slopes, shops, restaurants and fun activities offered here at Purg.
Day 1: Warming Up
Once you’re rested after a cozy night’s sleep, spend your first day warming up on the slopes.
We’ve got everything you need, but be sure to book rentals and lessons in advance. These go fast during busy times.
For those looking to get right to the action, catch a ride on the the Purgatory Village Express Lift straight to the top of the frontside and work your way down countless green and blue trails to the base. A few of our favorite runs include Mercy, Sa’s Psyche, Lower Pandemonium, Limbo, West Fork, What and Demon. If you’re warmed up and ready to explore more challenging terrain by the end of the day, check out black diamond trails such as Catharsis, Pandemonium and Upper Hades.
Be sure to keep an eye on our conditions page, to see what lifts and runs are open and available.
Maybe save a little time in the afternoon to check out the Inferno Mountain Coaster, a fun and thrilling experience perfect for the whole family (and a good activity for anyone with tired legs!)
Day 2: Go Big
Plan on spending your second day skiing and exploring the rest of the mountain. There’s still so much to see! Make your way to the backside and check out the runs on Lifts 3 and 8.
Be sure to soak up the views from one of our on-mountain restaurants. You can get to Dante’s and the Backside Bistro from Lifts 5 or 8, or find the Powderhouse mid-mountain on the front side. Grab lunch and a refreshing drink while you warm up those toes for more turns in the afternoon!
For those more advanced skiers, day 2 is a great time to escape the crowds and get into the backcountry. Check out Purgatory Snowcat Adventures — Colorado’s largest backcountry skiing and snowboarding operation accessing over 35,000 acres. This is an all day excursion for intermediate to expert skiers and snowboarders. Reservations are required at least 48 hours in advance.
After a full day on the slopes, unwind in the outdoor heated pool and hot tub, and enjoy stunning views shrouded in alpenglow at sunset (only available to those who booked with Purgatory Lodging). When you’re done, head over to Paradise Pizzeria and Bar for a delicious dinner. You can even grab your pizza to go and enjoy it back at the room with your feet propped up. Phew! What a day!
Day 3: Relax
Your final day of vacation has arrived, so why not spend it relaxing and soaking in the rest of the Purgatory experience?
In the morning, take a 2- or 3-hour snowmobile tour and explore more of the stunning scenery and history of the San Juan Mountains.
Afterwards, if your body is still sore from Day 2’s activities, head down to Durango Hot Springs Resort and Spa and catch the sunset as it lights up the red rock cliffs across the Animas Valley.
Finish up your trip with a walk around the Village Plaza to stock up on souvenirs, gear and gifts for friends and family!
Safe travels home and we can’t wait to see you out here next time!
