Major lift and terrain expansion coming for 2025–26 winter season at Purgatory Resort. Courtesy/Purgatory Resort
PURGATORY News:
DURANGO — Purgatory Resort has announced a major capital improvement project for this summer, including the construction of the new Gelande triple chairlift and development of up to five new trails and trail connectors. Scheduled to debut for the 2025–26 winter season, the project will expand frontside terrain and enhance skier access to the top of the mountain, independent of the Columbine and Village base areas.
The fixed-grip triple chairlift, manufactured by Skytrac, represents a significant investment in the resort’s on-mountain infrastructure and long-term commitment to improving the guest experience. The addition will also expand advanced and expert-level terrain on the mountain’s frontside.
In support of the project, Purgatory is forming two new work groups, many of whom are transitioning from seasonal winter roles into year-round positions. These teams will be instrumental in building the new lift and trail network and will continue to support future capital projects year-round.
“This marks an exciting next chapter for Purgatory,” said Dave Rathbun, general manager of Purgatory Resort. “We’re investing in meaningful improvements that will not only enhance the mountain experience but also strengthen our year-round workforce and operational capabilities. It’s about giving people the freedom to ski—and making that experience better each season.”
In order to safely prioritize construction efforts, which will include heavy equipment and truck traffic on new and existing mountain roads, the Purgatory Bike Park will take a hiatus this summer. The resort will use the closure period to continue Bike Park trail maintenance and improvements in preparation for a future reopening. While details about summer operations are still coming together, the team is actively working on plans and will continue to share updates as more information becomes available.
For real-time updates, photos and insights from General Manager Dave Rathbun on this major infrastructure project and summer operations, visit the Purgspective Blog.
About Purgatory Resort
Purgatory is tucked away between Durango and Silverton along the San Juan Skyway, on the southern edge of the San Juan Mountains. One of Colorado’s most family-friendly and best value ski resorts, Purgatory’s Power Kids season pass is the only pass in North America that grants free unlimited skiing, riding and lift-served mountain biking for all kids ages 12 and under, no blackout days or purchase required. Purgatory features 107 trails, 4 terrain parks, 11 lifts, and 1,635 skiable acres of steep tree skiing and wide-open cruisers; plus year-round family-friendly activities, lodging, retail, restaurants, bars, and signature events. Home to Colorado’s largest guided snowcat operation, Purgatory Snowcat Adventures covers 35,000 acres of rolling glades, wide open bowls, cliffs, chutes, gullies and trees. Visit Purgatory.ski.
