Find Ski Discounts & Coupons
Ski Purgatory
Durango is located in Colorado's far south and west aspects near the
four-corners region uniting Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona and Utah. A
charming community near some rather vertical mountains, Durango owes its
origins to the small scale railway, which continues to make token runs
through the immediate area, honoring its origins as a narrow gauge train
to Silverton and the local mining. Nearby Mesa Verde National Park
continues to protect and preserve the fantastic thousands of years of
Native American history found there. The ski resort, originally begun in
1965, was formerly (and is often still) known as Purgatory. The ski
resort has since undergone an official name change to Durango Mountain
Resort.
The mountain itself is generously apportioned for the intermediate
skier. Beginners will also find the trails appealing, and it lends
itself well to the transition from beginner to intermediate skier.
Knowing their clientèle, the ski instruction is geared towards beginning
and intermediate skiers as well. The more engaging expert ski runs are
best found at other locations. That said, the lack of lift lines means a
lot more runs and fun for your vacation, and ample opportunities to
improve your skills! Of course, as is the case with any of the Colorado
ski resorts, the ski patrol are consummate professionals and will see to
the safety of all the mountain's guests. There is a terrain park that
provides plenty of air for the adrenalin enthusiasts, and provides
beginners with a place to experience those first jumps. All in all, it's
a fun, comfortable mountain to ski.
Durango is also a college town, and the nightlife is bound to reflect
that aspect. Many classically trained chefs enjoy the area for the
diversity of activities and culture found there, and so one can be in
for a real dining treat. Durango also sports its own brewery:
Steamworks, known for craft beers and a unique combination of
southwestern and Cajun cuisine, is a popular watering hole, especially
during happy hour. There are pizza places as well, where one can grab a
slice and watch ski movies. Of course,the live music scene is always a
part of a ski town's apres-ski. A trip to Mesa Verde National Park's
ruins and a ride on the Narrow Gauge railroad are both unique
experiences not to be missed, so allow an extra day or two for them.
Though it's in the southern aspect of Colorado, visitors should still
dress for skiing. Light layers of clothing and a powder jacket,
something breathable and waterproof, are advised, as are neck and boot
gators. The mountain gets an average of 260 inches of snow per year (and
has snowmakers available, if needed.) With a base at over 8700 feet,
you're still going to feel the cold, and at the 11,000+ peak the wind
chill alone can be a shock to the system, so come prepared for alpine
skiing and shed layers as you need to. Since most of the trails are at
an intermediate level, most will find the skiing enjoyable. Durango's
rich history and culture add to the picture, making it a very pleasant
vacation destination.
 |
Durango Mountain Summit Elevation - 10,822 feet | Base Elevation - 8,793 feet | Vertical Rise - 2,029 feet | Lifts - 11 Total | Total Ski/Ride Terrain - 1,200 acres | Snowmaking - 250 acres | Number of Trails - 85 | Longest Run - 5,280 ft | Pipes and Parks - 2 terrain parks |
