Top 5 Spectacular Views at Purgatory Ski Resort

Purgatory ski resort, set in the San Juan Mountains of southwest Colorado, presents picturesque mountain vistas from various places along its snowy slopes. The breathtaking backdrop is inspiring and serene, making for a memorable run down the mountain every time. On your next trip up the lifts at Purgatory, check out these five incredible spots with stunning views.

#1. Paradise

As the name implies, prepare 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 post on Instagram, be sure to tag the resort at @skipurg).

A man snowboards at Purgatory ski resort. — Enjoy panoramic views from the top of Paradise at Purgatory. (Photo courtesy Purgatory Resort.)

#2. Legends Lift

Enjoy panoramic views from the top of Legends Lift, the highest point at Purgatory ski resort at 10,822 feet. The views are, well, legendary. 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 legends and offer some of the best expert skiing at the ski resort.

Legends Lift at Purgatory ski resort. — You can see the beautiful La Plata Mountain from the top of Legends Lift. (Photo courtesy Purgatory Resort.)

#3. 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 ski resort, and is regarded as one of the top technical trails at the resort. Along the trail, take a quick break to enjoy the untouched, snow-capped peaks only visible from the resort’s backside.

Ray's Ridge at Purgatory — Ray’s Ridge is a backcountry beauty with an awesome view. (Photo courtesy Purgatory Resort.)

#4. 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 with primo views of Engineer Mountain 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).

The view from Peace at Purgatory ski resort. — Take a moment at the top of Peace to admire the bluebird skies and Engineer Mountain. (Photo courtesy Purgatory Resort.)

#5. 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 ski resort offer a cozy outdoor deck, incredible views and a tasty menu. Powderhouse is perfect for a quick ride break on the front side of the mountain. If you need refreshment on the back side, Dante’s serves drinks, eats, sweet views and (most days) buckets of sunshine.

Powderhouse at Purgatory ski resort — Powderhouse is a great place to grab some refreshments and take in the view while on the mountain. (Photo courtesy Purgatory Resort.)

Honorable Mention

We couldn’t restrict the list to only five when there’s awe-inspiring views seemingly around every turn at Purgatory ski 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 ski resort 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 walk along the plaza amid the alpenglow and starlight can’t be beaten 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 more extended ski trips for independent skiers or groups, romantic couples, or the entire family. Purgatory ski resort 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 a different perspective on the thrilling Inferno Mountain Coaster. The coaster glides along a track that twists and turns through the trees as it travels 25 miles per hour down the mountain. The Inferno Mountain Coaster runs on weekends during the ski season and is also open during summer.

Snowcat Adventures

Snowcat skiing is a fantastic experience 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 in high demand, so reserve your spot now.