Purgatory

Located in southwestern Colorado, just north of Durango, Purgatory offers a vertical drop of 2027.6 feet, providing long continuous runs from peak to valley. The location in the San Juan Mountains often means stable winter conditions, with drier snow than in more coastal mountain areas and a season that typically extends from early winter to well into spring.

Skiing is clearly divided into different parts of the mountain. The lower zones are dominated by wide, well-groomed slopes with a smooth slope, while the upper sections offer steeper terrain, a more consistent drop line and elements of forest skiing. For advanced skiers, areas around the lifts on the upper half of the mountain are particularly interesting, where the terrain is of a technical level and provides good flow even on days with poorer visibility.

Purgatory has a reputation for being more rider-focused than many of Colorado's major destinations. The pace of the lift system is efficient and the queues are often manageable, which makes it possible to gain many meters of altitude per day. Off-piste skiing is easily accessible from the lift system, and the shape of the mountain means that the snow is often of good quality even a few days after snowfall.

This is a ski resort suitable for skiers who value long runs, clear vertical drop and varied terrain, rather than a large range of entertainment around. Purgatory is perceived by many as a more low-key and functional alternative to the most exploited ski resorts in Colorado, with a focus on the skiing itself rather than destination tourism.