Down in the south-west corner of Colorado, a short drive from the old railway town of Durango, Purgatory Resort has long been one of the state’s best-value ski areas. It is family-friendly, relaxed and refreshingly free of big-resort prices. This winter it also has something new for stronger skiers.
Purgatory at a glance
- Location: About 25 miles north of Durango
- Terrain: Stepped, family-friendly terrain plus new advanced runs
- Best for: Families, value, a relaxed atmosphere
- Lift passes: Purgatory’s own passes, plus Power Kids free skiing for under-13s
- 2026/27 season: Colorado Couloir lift targeting December 2026
- Nearest airport: Durango-La Plata County
©ChristianRidings
What’s New for 2026/27: Colorado Couloir
Purgatory’s big project is the Colorado Couloir lift, a new fixed-grip triple chair running from the Gelande car park to the upper mountain. It is around 4,400ft long and climbs 1,625ft, and it does two useful jobs. It gives skiers a second way into the lift network without having to go through the village first, and it opens up seven new trails and connectors, plus steep glades and more technical terrain on the front side of the mountain.
By the end of the summer the lift towers were in place and the top station was complete. Purgatory is aiming to open the new lift in December 2026, conditions permitting.
The Skiing
Purgatory’s terrain has a distinctive stepped shape: steeper pitches broken up by flatter benches, which makes it good fun for intermediates and a comfortable place to build confidence. There is plenty of cruising, well-kept learning areas for beginners and children, and good tree skiing when the snow comes in. The new Colorado Couloir terrain should give advanced skiers a lot more to go at.
Purgatory celebrated its 60th anniversary last winter with new snowmaking, better Wi-Fi, upgraded rental equipment and refreshed restaurants, so returning visitors will find the whole place in good shape.
Free Skiing for Kids
For families, the Power Kids programme has offered unlimited free skiing for children aged 12 and under, one of the best deals in American skiing. Check purgatory.ski for this season’s details and how to sign up.
Snowcat Skiing
For something special, Purgatory Snowcat Adventures is Colorado’s largest snowcat skiing operation, with around 35,000 acres of guided terrain. Alongside the skiing, there are scenic tours and snowcat dining trips that pair a five-course dinner with fine wines and big mountain views.
© Scott DW Smith
Off the Slopes
Durango is well worth a day or two in its own right, with a lively main street, good restaurants and breweries, and the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which runs winter trips into the San Juan Mountains.
Getting There
Durango-La Plata County Airport has connecting flights from Denver and other US hubs, and the resort is around 25 miles north of Durango. From Denver, it is a long drive of about six hours.
For more information visit purgatory.ski.
Purgatory: Your Questions Answered
What is new at Purgatory for 2026/27?
Purgatory is building the Colorado Couloir, a new triple chair from the Gelande car park that opens seven new trails and connectors. It is targeting a December 2026 opening.
Do kids ski free at Purgatory?
The Power Kids programme has offered unlimited free skiing for children aged 12 and under. Check purgatory.ski for this season’s details.
How far is Purgatory from Durango?
Purgatory is about 25 miles north of Durango, around 30 to 40 minutes by road.