Purgatory Trail Map

Purgatory’s terrain is spread across two main faces: the front side rising from the base village and the expansive backside basin. With a vertical drop of 2,029 feet and 51 miles of skiable terrain, the resort offers a diverse mix of runs for all skill levels. The longest run stretches 1.3 miles, and snowmaking ensures reliable coverage across key zones.

Beginners will find a dedicated learning area near the Columbine base, with gentle slopes and surface lifts ideal for first-timers. Twilight Lift serves green-rated runs with consistent pitch, avoiding the flat sections found on some upper-mountain trails. These areas are perfect for building confidence before progressing to longer descents.

Intermediate skiers can explore the frontside blues like Paradise and Upper Hades, which offer wide cruisers with panoramic views. The backside terrain, including Hermosa Park and Legends, features playful lines and lightly wooded sections that add variety without overwhelming less experienced skiers.

Advanced and expert skiers gravitate toward the upper reaches of Lift 8 and Lift 3, where black and double-black runs like Styx and Pandemonium deliver steep pitches and technical challenges. These areas are known for holding powder well after storms, thanks to their north-facing aspect and tree cover.

Freestyle riders have four terrain parks to choose from, each with its own character. The main park near Lift 1 includes a halfpipe, 22 rails, and progressive features for all levels. Smaller parks near the base and backside offer creative setups and quick laps for honing tricks.

Natural features like open bowls, ridgelines, and tree-lined chutes give Purgatory a dynamic feel. While the resort sits below treeline, the scenery remains dramatic, with views of the San Juans from nearly every lift. The terrain layout makes it easy to link runs across zones, offering a seamless experience for skiers who want to explore the full mountain.