Hesperus Ski Area closes lift pending better winter weather

More snow and cooler temperatures needed

Thursday, Feb 4, 2021 12:07 PM Updated Thursday, Feb. 4, 2021 10:57 PM

More snow and cooler temperatures needed

Lift service at Hesperus Ski Area has been suspended because of warm temperatures and lack of snowpack.

Courtesy of Hesperus Ski Area

Warm temperatures and lack of snowfall have forced Hesperus Ski Area to suspend ski lift service a week after opening Jan. 28.

Lift service will reopen when there is additional snowfall and cooler daytime temperatures, according to a ski area statement. The ski area reported an 18-inch base Thursday.

The tubing hill at Hesperus Ski Area will remain open on weekends. Lift service for skiers and snowboarders has been suspended pending more snow and cooler temperatures.

Courtesy of Hesperus Ski Area

Uphill access remains available for users with a pass that must be displayed. Uphillers must stay clear of the snowcat while grooming. Dogs are welcome as long as owners clean up after them.

Uphillers are instructed to park on the east end of the parking lot near the rental shop. Uphill access is allowed only outside normal operating hours; no services or ski patrol will be available.

An uphill pass can be purchased at Purgatory Sports in Durango, or online, for $40.

“Any and all snow dances are welcome,” according to a statement from the ski area.

According to the National Weather Service, high temperatures for the nearby town of Hesperus are expected to be in the low to mid 30s Friday and Saturday, and 40 degrees on Sunday. There is a chance of snow Monday.