Thanks to Friday’s snowfall and additional powder expected in the coming days, Purgatory Resort opened new terrain for skiing enthusiasts.
The resort’s Demon Trail opened on Friday afternoon “for top-to-bottom skiing,” according to Purgatory spokeswoman Theresa Graven.
“Snow is starting to come down in Durango with over a foot of snow expected in the next few days, and Purgatory will open more terrain as soon as possible,” Graven said.
Skiers were treated to a pancake breakfast on opening day Nov. 18, as the first chair launched at 9 a.m. Purgatory started with an average of an 18-inch base depth. Westfork and El Diablo trails also opened for the winter season, as well as a limited version of the Headwaters Terrain Park.
Although fresh powder will be on the mountain, Purgatory advises skiers and snowboarders to stay on designated trails and off closed trails.
Purgatory has increased its snow-making capabilities with its 1.25 million upgrade in snow-making improvements.
Despite the late arrival of natural snowfall and limited terrain, Purgatory is very happy with the turnout so far in the opening week.
“So far, the stoke, the atmosphere of the mountain have been overall very positive,” Graven said. “Everybody seems just excited for winter. I think we're all still riding on the high of last winter and getting over 30 feet of snow. So they're calling for a strong El Nino pattern this winter, but I can't count on the weather, but we’re definitely hopeful and hopeful that we have another great winter season.”
Purgatory is tucked away between Durango and Silverton along the San Juan Skyway, on the southern edge of the San Juan Mountains.
One of Colorado’s most family-friendly and affordable ski resorts, Purgatory’s Power Kids season pass is the only pass in North America that grants free unlimited skiing and snowboarding for children ages 12 and under. No blackout days or purchase required.
Purgatory features 105 trails, 4 terrain parks, 11 lifts and 1,605 skiable acres of steep tree skiing and wide-open cruisers.
For for more information, visit purgatory.ski.
