COVID INFO
First Time at Purgatory
Welcome to Purgatory Resort!
We look forward to your visit, and want to ensure that you have the best experience possible — whether you are staying at the resort or coming up for the day to ski.
Before You Arrive
Lift tickets: Please purchase online in advance. Lift tickets will not be available for purchase at the ticket office windows.
Lessons: Book at least 72 hours online in advance.
Rentals: Reservations required at least 72 hours in advance.
COVID Information
To learn more about our COVID guidelines, click here.
Getting Around – Transportation
Upon arriving at the resort, head through the entrance and park in our Base Area parking lot (HOV 2+ only on the weekends) or Upper/Lower Columbine Lots. On busy days, a parking attendant will direct you to our Gelande Overflow Lot.
Purgatory’s FREE parking lot shuttle service runs from 9:00am-4:30pm, every day from the arrival court to both upper and lower Columbine parking lots, the Columbine area and the Gelande overflow parking.
This season, we ask that one person per household utilize the shuttle and drop off the rest of their party using our newly designated skier drop off areas.
Purgatory Village Plaza
Upon arrival at the plaza, you will find:
Ticket Office: Please visit the outside ticket office window to pick up your pre-purchased lift tickets. Please note that lift tickets may not be purchase at the window.
Shopping: Village Plaza offers great shopping including outdoor gear, quality apparel, Purgatory logo wear, souvenirs and more.
Restaurants: Find convenient and hearty breakfast options; lunch and dinner menus of gourmet burgers, fresh salads, grilled sandwiches, pizza and artisan ice cream — as well as steaks, fish and more. Purgatory Resort restaurants offer something delicious for everyone!
Packing Tips
We want you to be cozy and comfortable on the slopes. Bring gear and clothing appropriate for the weather and conditions, including a base layer (think long underwear), an insulated and waterproof outer layer, snow pants, fleece or wool hat, gloves or mittens and socks, and protective eyewear (sunglasses or goggles). Helmets are required for children participating in any Purgatory Ski & Snowsports School program.
And don’t forget cold weather “street” clothes. Whether your après activities take you to nearby historic Durango, or around Purgatory Village, you’ll want a few layers to bundle up, including fleece or wool socks, a cozy hat or scarf, and snowboots.
Mountain Sun and Air
Purgatory Resort’s base is more than 8,000 feet above sea level, and the summit is nearly 11,000 feet. If you’re visiting from a lower altitude, your body typically adjusts to the higher altitude within 24-36 hours. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, and be mindful of your alcohol intake. Begin with light to moderate physical activity. Symptoms of high altitude sickness may include headaches, nausea, restless sleep, loss of appetite, and coughing or difficulty breathing, visit Mercy Urgent Care.
Outdoor recreation at high altitude increases risk of sunburn, as there is less atmosphere to filter and mellow the sun’s rays. Plus, Purgatory’s abundant snow reflects the sun’s rays, increasing your exposure. Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen on all exposed skin, even on cloudy winter days.
Know the Code
Protect yourself, protect others. With common sense and the seven points of Your Responsibility Code, you can have a safer day on the slopes. The National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) believes education, helmet use, respect and common sense are very important when cruising down the mountain. NSAA developed Your Responsibility Code to help skiers and boarders be aware that there are elements of risk in snowsports that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce.
Seven Points to Your Responsibility Code
- Always stay in control, and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.
- People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them.
- You must not stop where you obstruct a trail, or are not visible from above.
- Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and yield to others.
- Always use devices to help prevent runaway equipment.
- Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
- Prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely.
Questions? Call our Durango-based Purgatory Vacation Specialists at (800) 525-0892.
