Purgatory Mountain is about 35 minutes south of Silverton on US 550 towards Durango. This is the main resort for skiing and riding in the Durango area, but is actual about equal distance between Silverton and Durango. Despite its ominous name Purgatory is nice family resort with a variety of terrain to challenge every skill level. If Silverton Mountain is too extreme or you just need an on-piste day check out Purgatory for a traditional ski resort experience.
With top to bottom snow making capabilities they may also save your ski trip should mother nature be temperamental and be holding out on the usual deep San Juan powder.
Purgatory Resort is located in the rugged San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado, and 25 miles north of historic downtown Durango. Carved by glaciers thousands of years ago, Purgatory is a unique blend of steep tree skiing trails and wide-open cruisers with stunning views. Averaging 260 inches of snow annually, Purgatory is known for consistent, dry powder from frequent storms, followed by sunny, bluebird days, which creates perfect conditions for pure alpine nirvana. Purgatory features 1,605 acres of skiable terrain, 99 trails, 12 lifts, 7 terrain parks and a vertical drop of 2,029 feet. Renowned as a family-friendly resort and named “Best Ski Value” by TripAdvisor, there are many ways to enjoy the winter wonderland at Purgatory."
