Purgatory Resort

Photo provided by Purgatory Resort


Ski, sled and snowboard in winter and bike, hike and ride on horseback in summer at this resort in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains.

Purgatory Resort is a family-friendly and great-value mountain and adventure sports resort. Enjoy its year-round pursuits, from skiing and ice-climbing to hiking, horseback riding and mountain-biking. Set in the southern part of the Rocky Mountains, Purgatory Resort has natural beauty that is as much an attraction as its activities.

Consistent snowfall from November to April casts a picturesque white blanket over the resort’s mountain. Ride one of the 10 chairlifts to discover about 1,360 acres (550 hectares) of skiable terrain and 91 trails. Find runs suitable for first-timers and accomplished skiers. Try traditional alpine skiing and snowboarding or have fun at the resort’s five terrain parks.

Other ways to explore the mountain during the winter season are on dog-sledding tours, horse-drawn sleigh rides and snowmobiling excursions. Alternatively, go ice-climbing, Nordic skiing, snowshoeing and snow tubing.

Summer activities at Purgatory Resort run from late May through September. Join guided walks and learn about the region’s ecosystems, plants and animals as you cross wildflower meadows. Explore miles of well-marked trails by bike or mountain scooter and traverse the backcountry on horseback.

Enjoy a scenic ride above the treetops on an exhilarating zip line and challenge your agility on a ropes course. Play a round of miniature golf, speed down the mountainside on a toboggan track and have fun walking on water from inside an inflatable sphere. For a more relaxing ride, sit back and admire the San Juan Mountains from the comfort of the scenic chairlift.

The resort’s village offers a range of budget and luxury accommodations. Treat yourself to a therapeutic massage at the spa. Choose from several dining options, including the resort's flagship restaurant serving modern American cuisine, a delicatessen, a pizzeria and bars that serve locally brewed beer.

Rent a car and drive about 30 minutes from the historic mining town of Durango to reach the resort. Use the large parking lot at the resort village.

Visit the Purgatory Resort official website for seasonal operating hours, a list of activity prices and a schedule of events. You’ll also find details about discounts and special offers.

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