Hesperus is a proper little local ski hill, about 11 miles west of Durango at the foot of the La Plata Mountains. It is small, friendly and cheap, with night skiing on some evenings, and it is where many Durango children learn to ski. It is a sister area to Purgatory, which is just over half an hour away.
© Claude Steelman
Hesperus Ski Area at a glance
- Location: About 11 miles west of Durango
- Terrain: A small local hill with one lift
- Best for: Learning, families and night skiing
- Deals: Power Kids free skiing for under-13s, shared with Purgatory
- Nearest airport: Durango-La Plata County
Free Skiing for Kids
Families can take advantage of the Power Kids programme, which has offered free skiing for children aged 12 and under at Hesperus and Purgatory. Check the latest details on the Purgatory website before you travel.
The Skiing
Hesperus has a single lift, a small number of runs and a surprising amount of vertical for its size, with some steeper pitches for confident skiers as well as gentle learning slopes. It also allows uphill skiing in designated areas outside operating hours with an uphill pass.
Getting There
Hesperus is on US Highway 160, about 11 miles west of Durango. Durango-La Plata County Airport has connecting flights from Denver and other US hubs.
Hesperus Ski Area: Your Questions Answered
Where is Hesperus Ski Area?
Hesperus is about 11 miles west of Durango in south-west Colorado, at the foot of the La Plata Mountains.
Do kids ski free at Hesperus?
The Power Kids programme has offered free skiing for children aged 12 and under at Hesperus and its sister resort, Purgatory. Check current details before you travel.
Does Hesperus have night skiing?
Yes, Hesperus offers night skiing on selected evenings, which makes it popular with Durango locals.