Skiing and Winter Activities in Durango
Durango, Colorado, surrounded by the beautiful San Juan Mountains is the best hub for all of your winter adventures. With three ski resorts, Nordic skiing and winter fat biking within a 30 mile radius, all athletic ability levels can enjoy the outdoors from the Southwest corner of Colorado. Durango is home to Purgatory Ski Resort, Chapman Hill and Ice Rink, and Hesperus Ski Area for traditional skiing and Durango Nordic Center for cross country skiing and fat biking adventures.
Need rental gear? We’ve got you covered. You can head over to 2nd Ave Sports, Pine Needle Mountaineering or Backcountry Experience for all your needs.
Now that you have what you need to hit the mountain lets figure out where you are skiing!
CHAPMAN ICE ARENA AND SKI HILL: For a family friendly experience, Chapman Ice Arena and Ski Hill – located only 1.5 miles from the Strater it is convenient for an easy day on the mountain (or hill I should say). Chapman Hill is a one run hill with a small bunny hill for beginners. (Chapman is also home to Durango’s indoor ice rink so if skiing isn’t your thing, ice skating can be!) It is perfect for the beginner or an easy day for kids. If you are an avid professional skier, I would recommend checking out one of the other ski areas, but if you are looking for a little fun not too far from the hotel, Chapman is perfect for you. Night skiing is available at Chapman as well.
Price: FREE – $15
HESPERUS SKI AREA: Hesperus Ski Area, Durango’s 2nd largest ski area – located just minutes from downtown Durango, only 11 miles west on Highway 160, has 26 trails on 60 ski-able acres. Known as the largest night skiing operation in the southwest, Hesperus also offers tubing, rentals and ski school lessons. Opening at 10AM, Hesperus is the best place those who like to sleep in and for night skiing under the stars.
Price: $21 – $39
PURGATORY SKI RESORT: Purgatory Ski Resort is the largest and most inclusive mountain to ski in Durango. Purgatory Resort is located in the rugged San Juan Mountains just 25 miles north of historic downtown Durango. Carved by glaciers thousands of years ago, Purgatory is a unique blend of steep tree skiing trails and wide-open cruisers with stunning views. Purgatory allows for everyone from beginner to professional to have an amazing time. There are 101 trails, 1,605 skiable acres and 12 lifts!
Price: About $50 – $90 depending on day and specials
DURANGO NORDIC CENTER (AT PURGATORY): Located across the street from the main entrance to Purgatory Ski Resort, the Durango Nordic Ski Center is an organization that provides individuals of all ages and abilities the opportunity to learn, enjoy, and improve in the sports of Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking. They have over 20 kilometers of groomed trails and offer complete ski and snowshoe rental packages as well as private lessons, clinics, and a youth team program. For an all in one Nordic skiing experience this is the PERFECT place for you.
If you are already versed in these ski areas don’t forget that Durango is the best central location for access to even MORE ski areas in the region. You can easily use Durango, and The Strater Hotel, to get to Wolf Creek Ski Area and Telluride Ski Resort! Two beautiful ski resorts that allow for all levels of skiers and adventure seekers.
After a long day on the mountain it is certain that you will want a fun après ski place to recap the day’s adventures. Be sure to head back to the Strater and enjoy the Mahogany Grille, The Office Spiritorium and the Diamond Belle Saloon après scene. After enjoying live music the Diamond Belle or Office Spiritorium you can fill up on a hearty dinner in the Mahogany Grille and get ready for the next day of adventures in Durango. If you have any questions or need any more information be sure to call us at (970) 247-4431 and ask us. We can’t wait to see you!