Purgatory Resort General FAQs
Where is Purgatory Resort Located?
Purgatory Resort is nestled just 25 miles north of Durango, Colorado, deep in the San Juan mountains. Purgatory is located just off of US-550, and is only about a 30 minute drive from downtown Durango!
If driving is not your speed, there is also an airport nearby, La Plata County Airport, about 50 minutes south of the resort.
Why does Purgatory have such affordable lift tickets?
Purgatory, and all of Mountain Capital Partners, sell lift tickets on a “Buy Early, Save More” system. If you buy your lift tickets in advance, you can purchase tickets for as low as $9! Learn more about lift ticket prices here.
Is Purgatory Resort good for beginners?
Purgatory resort is GREAT for beginners! In fact, On The Snow voted Purgatory Resort the best ski area for beginners for the 24/25 season! You can find the article right here! Purgatory is home to the Columbine Beginner Area, offering two beginner lifts and a magic carpet. We even offer a multitude of ski and snowboard lessons, as well as the free beginner experience!
I don’t ski… what else is there to do at Purgatory Resort?
Not skiing does NOT equal not having fun! We offer plenty of other fun for summer activities and winter activities.
In the summertime, there is the mountain coaster, the alpine slide, treasure panning, the scenic chairlift ride, Twilight Lake fun, Mountain Biking, and UTV/RZR/JEEP rentals and tours!
In the winter, there are endless options of non-skiing fun, including the mountain coaster, snowcat dining excursions, snowmobile adventures, the tubing hill, snowshoe tours, and scenic snowcat tours!
Does Purgatory Resort offer lessons packages?
Yes, Purgatory Resort offers a “Learning to ski is as easy as 1-2-3!” package. This package includes a half-day lesson, rental gear for two days, and 2 lift tickets all for just $300! You can even sweeten the deal with adding lodging at a great discount (only $361 for a 2 night stay in a studio). You can check out all of our other deals and packages right here so you can worry less, save more, and get out there!
Does Purgatory Resort have dining options and lodging at the resort?
On base we offer slopeside lodging from studios to 5 bedroom homes! Make sure to check out our winter lodging offers or summer lodging offers to snag the best price 😉
We have multiple dining options on mountain and at the base of the resort.
Base offerings:
Purgy’s is situated at the base of Lift 1, and offers a gastropub experience in a mountain setting. At lunch, enjoy classic resort fare: burgers and sandwiches, Purgatory’s signature beef chili, baked potatoes, salads, and more. Join us for Aprés with light bites and cocktails. Each evening, Purgy’s dishes up hand trimmed steaks and mountain inspired entrees alongside a curated wine selection.
Bear bar is the place to take in the San Juan sunshine on Purgatory’s famous “Ski Beach.” Live music on select days. Located slopeside at the base of Lift 1.
Paradise Pizza is located in the main Village Plaza, across from the ticket office. With an Italian menu featuring Pizza, Pasta, Salads and more. You can even visit the ice creamery there for a sweet ending to your ski day.
Village Market and Deli offers a selection of house-made breakfast burritos, pastries, coffee, deli sandwiches, soups, and snacks. The market is stocked with grab n’ go selections, home essentials, personal care items, and other sundries for your stay. Located in Village Plaza’s Kendall building.
Waffle Cabin is located slopeside at the Village Base Area near Lift 4, and serves Belgian Liège waffles with a variety of toppings and a selection of warm beverages.
Hoody’s will be open for a breakfast buffet every day winter 25/26 season. Offering a classic continental spread, as well as breakfast libations at the bar.
On-mountain offerings – winter only:
Powderhouse Deck Grill is a classic mountain bar and grill, accessible via Lift 1, and Lift 2.
Dante’s Lodge Café, located on Purgatory’s backside, offers spectacular views of the San Juans and a variety of lunch options. The main level features a noodle bar, fresh-mex station, grill station, and handcrafted espresso beverages.
Backside Bistro offers fine dining at 10,000+ feet. European alpine classics such as Wiener Schnitzel, Parisian Steak Frites, and French Onion Soup are complemented by an all-European wine selection. Reservations are recommended. Located on Purgatory’s Backside in Dante’s Lodge (Hours and dates of operations can be found here).
Does Purgatory Resort host groups or weddings?
Purgatory Resort is a beautiful venue for any occasion, including but never limited to weddings, family reunions, company retreats, and school trips! For weddings, Purgatory hosts guest counts up to 200 guests, boasting 3 stunning venues and 4 breathtaking ceremony sites. You can find more information on weddings right here. No matter the group, Purgatory Resort is a perfect place to gather. Our team is available to help you plan your special event in the mountains creating an unforgettable experience everyone can enjoy. Find more information here!
Does Purgatory Resort Offer Rentals?
The on-mountain rental shop is located on the second floor of the Village Center building, just above Purgatory Sports. We are open daily from 8:15 AM to 5:00 PM. There is also a downtown location at Purgatory Sports – Downtown, and can be found at 2615 Main Ave, Durango. This shop is open daily 8:15 AM – 5:00 PM. You can reserve your rentals online right here. View more information on our winter rentals FAQ page right here.
How Can I Check the Weather and Conditions At Purgatory Resort?
You can check the forecast as shown on OpenSnow right on our weather, conditions, webcams pages that you can locate here. On this page you can find the snow report, snow totals, three webcams across the mountain, and see what trails and lifts are open.