Top 5 Spectacular Mountain Views at Purgatory Resort
Purgatory Resort in the heart of the San Juan Mountains of southwest Colorado presents picturesque mountain vistas from a variety of places along its snowy slopes. The breathtaking backdrop is both inspiring and serene, and makes for a memorable run every time down the mountain. Your next trip up the lifts at Purgatory Resort, be sure to check out these 5 incredible spots with stunning views.
Paradise
Just as the name implies, get ready for a little slice of heaven. At the top of this run, you’ll be rewarded with unobstructed views of the Needles Mountain Range in the distance and the yawning valley below that extends to the base of the massive peaks. It’s the perfect spot to snag a killer IG photo and catch your breath before your next epic run (when you do post on Instagram, be sure to tag the resort at @skipurg).
Legends Lift
Enjoy panoramic views from the top of Legends Lift, the highest point at Purgatory at 10,822 feet. The views are, well, legendary, to say the least. The views at the top of Legends Lift are second to none. On one of the resort’s typical bluebird ski days, you can see the La Plata Mountains in the distance to the southwest. The trails here are named after Purgatory Resort “legends” and offer some of the best expert skiing at the resort.
Ray’s Ridge
This trail off Legends Lift is a black-diamond beauty that’s a hit with skiers and snowboarders who love to rip. It’s named after Ray Duncan, the founder of Purgatory, and is regarded as one of the top technical trails at the resort. Along the trail, be sure to take a quick break to enjoy the untouched, snow-capped peaks that are only visible from the backside of the resort.
Peace
The best views don’t always have to be in the backcountry or along the double blacks. Intermediate skiers looking for mesmerizing scenery should consider Peace off the Hermosa Park Express Lift, also called Lift 3. The blue run is an excellent cruiser that has primo views of Engineer Mountain all the way to the bottom of the chairlift. Engineer Mountain is only 32 feet short of being a 13er (what the locals call a 13,000-foot peak).
Powderhouse and Dante’s
One of the most fun experiences at the resort is grabbing a bite to eat on the mountain. Two spots at Purgatory Resort offer skiers and boarders a cozy outdoor deck, amazing views and a tasty menu. On the front side of the mountain, Powderhouse is perfect for a quick ride break. If you need refreshment on the back side, Dante’s serves up drinks, eats, sweet views and (most days) buckets of sunshine.
Honorable Mention
We couldn’t restrict the list to only five when there’s awe-inspiring views seemingly around every turn at Purgatory Resort. So, here’s four more!
Base Area and Village Plaza
Not all views require a chairlift. One of the most beautiful parts of Purgatory is its one-of-a-kind Village Plaza and Base Area. The true magic of the base and plaza come to life after the lifts stop running and the sun goes down. Apres-ski, dinners and moonlight walks along the plaza amid the alpenglow and starlight can’t be beat for its romanticism and wonderment.
Purgatory Lodge Pool
After a day on the slopes, kick back in the heated outdoor pool and hot tub at the Purgatory Lodge and soak in the views. The slopeside accommodations are perfect for a weekend getaway or longer ski trip for independent skiers or groups, romantic couples, or the entire family. Purgatory has expert runs for seasoned skiers and it’s also a great place to learn to ski. The lodge often has exclusive specials to stay and ski.
Inferno Mountain Coaster
See the mountain from an entirely different perspective on the thrilling Inferno Mountain Coaster. The coaster glides along a track that twists and turns through the trees as it travels down the mountain at speeds reaching 25 miles per hour. The Inferno Mountain Coaster runs on weekends during the ski season and is also open during the summer months.
Snowcat Adventures
Snowcat skiing is an amazing experience that’s totally different from cruising or riding the groomers. Purgatory Snowcat Adventures at the resort grants access to more than 35,000 acres of pristine backcountry terrain. It’s the largest Snowcat skiing operation in Colorado! Hitch a ride on a Snowcat to the best snow stashes in the San Juan Mountains and ski dazzling ridgelines and incredible tree-lined paths, always with plenty of snow. It’s an unforgettable outing that’s in high demand, so reserve your spot now.