Ski and Snowboard News, Deals, and Events

Purgatory at Durango Mountain Resort is increasing the total skiable acreage by 10 percent to 1,325 acres this coming season. The resort is adding 125 acres of new, expert terrain which is scheduled to open Dec. 20 of this year. The expansion is west of Elliot's run, extending Purg's boundary with 1,200 vertical feet of steep tree skiing. It's the first major expansion of terrain at the Durango resort since the 1980s.

Trees were clear cut from the area using the "lop-and-scatter method." That's where the cut trees are left on the forest floor. It is a less invasive method while enhancing habitat for wildlife. It eliminates the need for heavy machinery traditionally used to process and transport timber from the area. Crews cut only standing dead timber, hazard timber, and non-merchantable timber less than six inches in diameter, which goes along with Forest Service guidelines.

The project was done in the Legends area, which will improve upper-intermediate and expert skiing at Purgatory. Future improvements include the replacement of the Legends Chairlift/Lift 8 with a high-speed quad, and the clearing of additional terrain.

Purgatory pass prices are at early-season pricing through Oct. 17. An adult pass is $759 and goes up to $859. College, student and senior passes are available (Silver and Golden). Passes are unrestricted and include three days at Taos (not valid Dec. 27-Jan.1), 10 days at Kirkwood, half-price day passes to Crested Butte (one per passholder per day), and 30 percent off day passes at Arizona Snowbowl (one per passholder per day).

More Information Or call 970-385-2168.