Purgatory Resort will offer night skiing and snowboarding after 4 p.m. every day starting Saturday until Hesperus Ski Area has enough snow to open for the season.
Because of recent warm, dry weather and lack of snowmaking infrastructure, Hesperus Ski Area, 12 miles west of Durango, has delayed its opening day until conditions improve. As a result, Purgatory will operate Lift 7 in the Columbine area and provide lighted access to two ski runs, Ski Way and Graduate, from 4 to 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday through Thursday.
According to a news release from Purgatory, crews are working to open additional runs and lifts in the Columbine area.
“We’re always looking for ways to expand skiing, and enhance our guests’ enjoyment on the slopes,” Colin McBeath, Purgatory Resort general manager, said in a news release. “We’re excited to offer night skiing again at Purgatory, which was last offered at the resort approximately 17 years ago.”
Chili, soup, macaroni and cheese, beer, wine, hot cocoa and soft drinks will be sold during evening hours at Elevation Station in the Columbine area.
Lift tickets for night skiing at Purgatory are $25 and are available at the ticket office or in the Columbine area. Full-day lift tickets and season passes to Purgatory Resort or Hesperus Ski Area can also be used for night skiing.
Uphill access at Hesperus Ski Area is still available for $25 before and after the mountain opens for skiing, regardless of snowfall, for those who want to skin or hike up the mountain.
To purchase an uphill season pass for Hesperus, visit Purgatory Sports, 2615 Main Ave.
For more information, visit www.purgatoryresort.com.
fstone@durangoherald.com
