Mountain Biking is different from road or street riding and is confined to marked unimproved or partially improved trails where rocks, dirt, loose gravel and stumps and trees may be encountered at any time. Purgatory Bike Park offers miles of downhill, cross-country (X-C) and even an uphill trail starting at the base of Purgatory Express/Lift 1 (the World Champs XC trail). Changing weather conditions, variations in terrain, including steepness, natural and man-made obstacles and features, and other dangers or conditions that may be encountered such as vehicles on the mountain, are inherent risks that are part of the challenge of mountain biking. Be aware that trees, live or dead, can blow over during wind events. Watch for and avoid trees or branches that may have fallen on mountain bike trails. Riding trails under construction is dangerous and strictly prohibited. Expect jumps and features on many downhill trails. Inspect each feature before using. Do not stop where you obstruct a trail or are not visible from above or to other riders. Wooden features become slippery when wet. You control the degree of risk when using the jumps and features. Ride-arounds may be available. Features can change due to use, weather or maintenance. You must ride in control and within your own ability. Expect and yield to riders going at different speeds than yourself. Announce your presence when approaching other riders. You are using these premises at your own risk, and assume all risks in this activity. Helmets must be worn while riding at Purgatory Resort. Downhill trails within the Bike Park are designed for downhill biking and should be enjoyed with appropriate equipment and protective gear, including freeride/downhill full suspension bikes. Lower your seat and stand on your pedals for safety. Use of jumps, features and airborne maneuvers can cause equipment failure and can significantly increase the risk of serious injury. Read and obey all signs. Riding downhill on mountain roads is prohibited unless otherwise posted. Equipment allowed on mountain bike trails is limited to mountain bikes and approved adaptive equipment. Fat bike tires or oversized tires may not fit in the Deasonbuilt bike trays provided for uplift transport on Purgatory Express/Lift 1.

E-bikes are only permitted to travel uphill on the World Champs XC uphill trail starting at the bottom of Purgatory Express/Lift 1 and on US Forest Service Roads 578 (Hermosa Park) and 581 (Elbert Creek) that access the Resort boundary.  E-bikes are only permitted to be loaded two (2) per bike tray on Purgatory Express/Lift 1 and may not be hung on chairlift bike hooks.

Weather in the mountains can change quickly and unexpectedly. Our Operations Team follows a strict inclement weather protocol with guest and employee safety as their top priority. Up until the time that activity wristbands are redeemed you can receive a full refund.

A resort credit may be available should inclement weather force the suspension of operations after 3 consecutive hours of delay or resort closure before 2 PM. Resort credits will only be eligible on and for the day the product is purchased for and must be redeemed in-person at our Ticket Office within 1 hour of closure announcement. Guest wristbands must be presented at time of request.

Note that credits are not calculated from the time that wristbands are issued and are not based on the usage of the ticket. Please plan on using all of the time to get the best value out of your ticket. Please expect weather delays as we frequently have afternoon thunderstorms. Activities will reopen when weather passes and operations pass safety procedures.

National Forest System Lands at Purgatory Resort are permitted both for developed recreation and cattle grazing. It may be a strange sight, but at times cattle may wander into areas where guests recreate at the resort. Stress and fear may provoke a cow to defend itself and its calf by behaving aggressively towards you. If you encounter cows, slowing down, giving the cows some space, and having a calm demeanor, will give the cows a chance to move along with no conflict. Lifted heads and ears signal awareness. The cows are evaluating, “is this person a threat?” Slowing down and stopping can help signal that you are not a threat, thus preventing a fear-based reaction by the cows.

Drinking water is available in the Village through multiple locations including water fountains and bottle fill stations in Purgatory Lodge, Kendall Mountain Lodge, Village Center and from coolers located on the back wall of the Bear Bar & Grill. Bottled water is available from the Village Market & Deli. Don’t drink from streams on the mountain. Carry water with you while biking or hiking and increase your fluid intake to prevent dehydration.

Be alert for wildlife and avoid wildlife encounters. Moose, bears, foxes, coyotes, chipmunks, ground squirrels and various other wildlife may be present, whether seen or not. Do not approach or feed wildlife. Keep the wildlife wild and keep your distance to help avoid injury. Moose are unpredictable and may charge especially if dogs are present. All dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times when in developed recreation areas of the San Juan National Forest or in Purgatory Resort areas.

The base of the Resort lies at 8,800 feet above sea level, while the top of the Purgatory Express/Lift 1 is just under 11,000 feet. The air is thinner and less oxygen is available. People coming from lower elevations may experience altitude sickness. This usually occurs within the first 48 hours. You may experience headaches, nausea, insomnia, and loss of appetite. The best remedy is to take it easy on your first day here: increase fluid intake, decrease salt, alcohol and caffeine intake, and select high-carbohydrate, low-fat foods. Be aware that high elevation can also accentuate existing health problems. Seek medical assistance if problems persist or get worse. There is about 50% more ultraviolet radiation at 10,000 feet than at sea level. Always wear eye and skin protection.