Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding
Purgatory Resort. This unpretentious ski resort 27 miles north of Durango has plenty of intermediate runs and gladed tree skiing, but what's unique about it is its stepped terrain: lots of humps and dips and steep pitches followed by virtual flats. Purgatory is just plain fun, and return visitors like it that way. It's not all old-school, however: A high-speed quad on the back side (Lift 8) conveys skiers to the top of the mountain in five minutes and accesses three advanced trails. The ski area is perfect for families and those who are open to other diversions, such as horse-drawn sleigh rides, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Facilities: 105 trails; 1,635 acres; 2,029-foot vertical drop; 12 lifts. 1 Skier Pl., Purgatory, Colorado, 81301. 970/247–9000; 800/525–0892; www.purgatoryresort.com. Lift ticket $109. Late Nov.–early Apr., daily 9–4.
Lessons and Programs
Adult & Teen Ski and Ride School. On the second level of the Village Center, the Adult & Teen Ski and Ride School runs full-day and half-day group lessons during the season. The school also provides private lessons, as well as specialty clinics for telemark and bump skiers of all levels. Village Center, Purgatory, Colorado, 81301. 970/385–2149; www.purgatoryresort.com. From $69 for two hours; $95 for four hours.
Kids Ski and Ride School. Getting kids onto the slopes is a cinch at the Kids Ski and Ride School, which offers programs for skiers and snowboarders ages 4 to 12. Choose from a full-day package—which includes lunch, a lesson, equipment rental, and a lift ticket—or a half-day package. Also check out the strider snowbike lessons for kids. Village Center, Purgatory, Colorado, 81301. 970/385–2149; www.purgatoryresort.com. From $69 for a half day; $95 for a full day.
Purgatory Snowcat Adventures. Out-of-bounds types can explore 35,000 acres of untamed wilderness with Purgatory Snowcat Adventures. A day of guided snowcat skiing or riding includes safety gear and a hearty lunch. Village Center, Purgatory, Colorado. 970/385–2115; www.purgatoryresort.com. $429.
Rentals
Expert Edge. This is the go-to shop at the base village for demos, retail, and repair. It features top-of-the-line men's and women's skis, boots, bindings, poles, and more from top brands. Expert Edge also does custom boot fitting, ski tuning, and equipment repair. Village Center, Purgatory, Colorado, 81301. 970/385–2181; www.purgatoryresort.com. Mid-Nov.–mid-Apr., daily 8–5.
