Conditions Report
Report from Saturday & Sunday, April 13-14, 2024
I drove to Purgatory, Colorado, on Saturday, April 13, on the Million Dollar Highway, probably one of the most scenic drives in Colorado from Ouray to Silverton. The road snakes along cliff sides with no guard rails to give drivers incredible views of the San Juan Mountains.
The sun was shining without a cloud in the sky and temperatures were in the 60s. You can’t find much better spring skiing conditions than that.
My first stop was the Waffle Cabin at the base of Purgatory which is a must for anyone who has not been there.
Despite the warm temperatures, the snow was still sliding well on any run that had been groomed. I enjoyed skiing under Purgatory Village Express and Engineer Lift on the front side of the mountain.
Both of these lifts provide access to all levels of terrain for the whole family. From difficult tree runs to wide-open steeps and green-rated pitches down to the base, a family can easily enjoy their different abilities on the same lifts.
For spring, it was enjoyable to watch people take some of their last season laps on the halfpipe and large jumps in the Pitchfork Park area.
I enjoyed more of the sun at the base where music was playing and a crowd was outside in lawn chairs tanning. From here, heading back to the car was easy with a shuttle running every few minutes to all of Purgatory’s lots.
Durango Hot Springs
On the way to Durango, lies Durango Hot Springs. I have visited hot springs all over the world and have not visited American hot springs that have invested this much capital into an incredible experience until now. With 32 hot springs mineral pools, on most days you can find one to yourself or your group.
According to legend, the springs have been in use for over 1000 years. With cold plunges and a spa, there is no better place to après after a long day of skiing. To add a cherry on top, a beer garden layout with multiple food trucks servings tacos, burgers and alcoholic drinks add to the uniqueness of the springs. I am surprised this is the first time this business model has been tried, but the uniqueness adds a reason why it should be on your list even if you can only make it to the area in Purgatory’s off-season.
In Japan, using Onsens (hot springs) after ski days is normal. The American twist on them brings enjoyment to all of the users (bathing suits are required with the American twist).
Continuing down to Durango, it was restaurant week with deals at most restaurants in town and a lively crowd walking the streets. The town is one of the most unique Colorado towns I have seen and should be on your bucket list. With heaps of historic restaurants, shops, and a lively atmosphere it is truly a unique mountain town. For being a six to seven-hour drive from the closest large city, it was lively.
Anyone who has not visited should make the trip regardless of the season.
The Pond Skim
After an exceptional 2023/24 season, Purgatory hosted its annual pond skim under the warm Colorado sun.
Many resorts host Pond Skims this time of year, but none attract crowds consistently like Purgatory does. The energy was incredible.
Crowds showed up from all over the region to watch around 100 participants attempt the pond skim. People were dressed in all sorts of spring costumes from Hawaiian shirts to anything you would see at a Halloween party.
From makes to many dives and wipeouts, everyone was entertained. A loud speaker played music and announced the riders as the crowd cheered and grimaced during wipeouts.
About Purgatory Mountain, CO
Purgatory is located six to seven hours southwest of Denver and 30 minutes from the local town of Durango, Colorado. Montrose, Colorado, is another option to fly into, located two hours away on the Million Dollar Highway. A 2,072 vertical drop, 1,635 skiable acres, 11 lifts, and 107 trails all make Purgatory a mountain to add to your bucket list. The location away from major populated cities means you will never have to wait in extensive lines to get out and enjoy the skiing.
There are countless unique events at the resort and in the region including the Natural Selection Tour that was hosted earlier this season. For anyone who has not been, add Purgatory to your 2024/25 list to enjoy the mountain/surrounding area with countless activities and events for the entire family.
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