Photo: David DuBois
Photo: mick hooper
Photo: Caleb Czimskey
Purgatory Resort
★4.5(3,807 reviews)$$$Amusement Park
🕑 Full day (5-7 hours) for most families to enjoy skiing, biking, or multiple summer activities with breaks for lunch and rest👶 Best for ages 4 and up. Young children (4-7) thrive in ski school programs and gentle summer activities, while older kids and teens (8+) can tackle more challenging terrain, bike trails, and independence on the mountain. The resort's variety means multi-age families can find activities everyone enjoys together or split up by ability level.🧡 Saved by 46 families
About
Purgatory Resort transforms from a winter wonderland to a summer adventure playground, making it the ultimate year-round mountain destination for families near Durango. Kids of all ages can experience the thrill of skiing and snowboarding in winter, then return for mountain biking, scenic chairlift rides, and alpine activities when the snow melts. With terrain and programs designed specifically for beginners through advanced adventurers, families will find activities perfectly suited to every child's skill level.
Highlights
- ✓Ski and snowboard lessons specifically designed for kids with patient instructors and magic carpet lifts for beginners
- ✓Summer scenic chairlift rides offering breathtaking San Juan Mountain views without the physical exertion
- ✓Progressive terrain parks and trails that grow with your child's abilities across multiple visits
- ✓Family-friendly base area with easy access to rentals, lessons, food, and lodging all in one location
- ✓Mountain biking trails and features for various skill levels during summer months
Pro Tips
- 1.Book ski or bike lessons in advance, especially during peak winter holidays and summer weekends,kids' programs fill up quickly and provide the best introduction to mountain sports
- 2.Arrive early (by 8:30 AM) to avoid lift lines and get fresh snow or cooler summer temperatures; kids have more energy in the morning too
- 3.Pack extra layers year-round,mountain weather changes rapidly, and temperatures at the base differ significantly from the summit
- 4.Take advantage of the beginner areas near the base lodge where you can easily duck inside for bathroom breaks, snacks, and warmth with younger children
- 5.In summer, ride the chairlift up and hike down for a less strenuous family adventure with spectacular views,kids love the novelty of the lift ride
Best Time to Visit
Winter: weekdays in January-February for fewer crowds and excellent snow conditions. Summer: mid-June through August for warm weather and all activities open. Visit early mornings (9:00-11:00 AM) before afternoon mountain weather rolls in and while kids are fresh and energetic.
What to Know
Lift tickets and activity passes vary by season; multi-day passes offer better value for families. On-site dining options include cafeteria-style and quick-service restaurants at the base lodge. Parking is free, and the resort offers equipment rentals, though reserving ahead is recommended during busy periods.
Seasonal Notes
Winter season typically runs late November through early April depending on snowfall. Summer operations begin mid-June and run through September with mountain biking, scenic rides, and hiking. The resort may have limited or no operations during spring (April-May) and fall (October-November) shoulder seasons,always check the website before planning your visit.
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Nearby Eats
Head to Durango Diner (10 miles away) for hearty breakfast and comfort food that fuels kids for mountain adventures, or stop at Steamworks Brewing Company in downtown Durango for burgers, pizza, and a kids' menu in a casual atmosphere.
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