The wet slush that fell Monday on Monday blessed Purgatory Resort with a foot of snow ahead of opening day Saturday.
The ski resort is opening almost a week earlier than it did last year and is off to a strong start for it’s 50th season with a 24-inch base.
“It’s a winter wonderland here at Purgatory,” said Kim Oyler, a spokeswoman for the resort.
Lift 1 and the magic carpet will run Saturday, and DC and Angel’s Tread terrain parks will also be open.
The resort will stay open through Thanksgiving week, but it is unknown whether it will stay open on weekdays following the holiday, Oyler said.
But the chances for more ski days could improve with a storm around Thanksgiving that could bring in snow to the region.
“We are looking at the potential for a significant winter storm, but the details are fuzzy,” said Matthew Aleksa a meteorologist with the National Weather Service.
The storm is expected to hit eastern Utah and western Colorado starting Wednesday or Thursday and potentially lingering through Friday, he said.
The area also has a solid base of snow because the resort was able to start making snow Oct. 23, the earliest start for the snow-machines in 20 years. An early start to snowmaking helps establish a base of snow that will last throughout the season, Oyler said.
Dry weather and colder temperatures made the early snowmaking possible, Sr. Vice President of Mountain Operations Mike McCormack said in a statement.
To usher in the snowy season, music by DJ Aiko Aiko, giveaways and games including a cornhole tournament will be held at the ski beach.
For those celebrating Thanksgiving at the resort later in the week, a four-course dinner will be available at Purgy’s Slopeside Restaurant.
The 50th year of Purgatory will also be marked by the grand opening of the new Lift 8 on Dec. 19. The high-speed, detachable quad chairlift replaced the old and slow triple chair on the lift known as “Legends.”
Purgatory also added three new trails and additional snowmaking infrastructure at the bottom of Lift 8, according to a statement.
“With Purgatory’s 50th anniversary, the new high-speed quad, and a strong El Niño, we’re ready to kick off the ski season,” James Coleman, managing partner of Purgatory Resort, said in a statement. “Purgatory’s entire team has been hard at work to get the mountain open this Saturday and start celebrating our 50th season.”
mshinn@durangoherald.com
If You Go
Opening Day
Note: Discounts will be offered for lift tickets at Purgatory Resort this Saturday through Wednesday. Power Pass season passes and weekday passes will be honored throughout opening weekend.
Lift ticket prices by age
$31: children (6-12)
$40: teens (13-17 )
$50: adults (18-64)
$43: seniors (65-79)
$18: super seniors (80+)
