Durango, Colorado is an exciting four-season destination. In the winter, you’ll find an exciting mix of outdoor adventure and small-town charm. From snowy rides on the Durango to Silverton Railroad to discovering paradise in the San Juan Mountains at Purgatory Ski Resort, there are so many things to do in Durango, CO this winter.
Winter in Durango is all about ski season, and though you can reach world-famous ski resorts like Telluride in two short hours, our local Purgatory Ski Resort is the place to be this winter. With its stunning mountain views and well-groomed trails, Purgatory attracts skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. Off the slopes, you can enjoy snowshoeing, snowmobiling, or simply taking in the breathtaking alpine scenery. Après-ski options in town range from laid-back breweries to upscale dining, making Durango the perfect place to unwind after a day of winter adventure.
As excited as we are for the upcoming ski season, that’s just one of the many things waiting for you in Durango this winter. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy scenic winter train rides through the snow-covered mountain landscapes, followed by a little shopping in historic downtown Durango. The town has a lively atmosphere, with local shops and cozy restaurants. At the end of the day, unwind in bliss at our Durango, CO Bed and Breakfast.
Our charming hideaway offers a luxurious escape with beautiful rooms and thoughtful amenities, perfect for relaxing after a day at Purgatory or exploring the area. Whether you’re hitting the slopes for Purgatory’s upcoming ski season or just enjoying the winter landscape, you’ll feel right at home here. Book your winter getaway here!
Gear Up for Ski Season at Purgatory Ski Resort
Skiing at Purgatory Ski Resort is an unforgettable experience. Located just north of Durango, this resort boasts a long ski season, typically running from late November through at least early April, and boasts some of the best slopes in Colorado. Whether you’re an expert skier or just starting out, Purgatory offers over 1,600 acres of varied terrain, from beginner-friendly slopes to thrilling black diamonds. Purgatory Ski Resort is known for its consistent snow conditions, thanks to both natural snowfall and excellent snowmaking capabilities, which means you can expect great powder and ski conditions throughout the season.
If you’re not a season’s pass holder, we recommend you buy lift tickets in advance on their website. They’re often at a discount. There are also multi-day passes that provide more value. Purgatory Ski Resort also offers equipment rentals and lessons, making it easy for newcomers or those without gear to hit the slopes. In addition to the skiing itself, Purgatory Ski Resort offers a full range of amenities to enhance your experience.
On-mountain dining options include everything from casual cafés to more upscale dining with spectacular views. For families, there are plenty more winter activities, too, including tubing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing tours, snowmobiling, and even snowcat backcountry skiing. The base area has a ski-in/ski-out village with shops, rentals, and après-ski spots to unwind after a day on the slopes. With its laid-back vibe and stunning mountain scenery, Purgatory Ski Resort remains one of Colorado’s best ski destinations for adventure seekers and those seeking a winter escape.
As great as it is, Purgatory Ski Resort is just one of the many great places to enjoy skiing near Durango. The closest ski resort in Durango is Hesperus Ski Area, which has an excellent reputation for night skiing and summit skiing. However, it’s currently closed and seems it will remain so throughout the 2024-25 season. There are still other great ski resorts near Durango worth considering, including:
- We’ve already mentioned Telluride, which is about two hours away and is home to the highest concentration of 13,000- and 14,000-foot peaks in North America. It’s known for its incredible scenery and excellent skiing.
- Silverton Mountain is perfect for altitude lovers, as it’s the highest ski resort in North America. However, the challenging terrain and ungroomed trails make it best left to advanced and expert-level skiers.
- Wolf Creek Ski Area in Pagosa Springs is also a two-hour drive from Durango and claims to have the “most snow in Colorado.”
More Things to Do in Durango, CO This Winter
With so many skiable acres at your fingertips in the Durango area, it’s easy to see why this charming town is such a ski-lover’s paradise. However, skiing at places like Purgatory Ski Resort is just one of the many things to do in Durango this winter. You can blend a little outdoor adventure with rich history and a lively downtown scene here. Durango offers a perfect mix of activities to make the most of the snowy season.
Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes, explore the backcountry, or enjoy great local dining, Durango’s winter charm has something for everyone. It doesn’t hurt that our surrounding landscapes are also exceptionally beautiful! Get the fun started with a few of our favorite things to do in Durango this winter, listed below.
- A winter train ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a winter must. These scenic winter train rides through the San Juan Mountains, with beautiful snowy vistas and themed adventures, are truly unforgettable.
- Explore Durango’s wild side with backcountry snowmobiling tours. From two-hour group tours to private adventures, there are plenty of ways to get out in the snowy wilderness.
- Hiking is one of the most popular things to do in Durango during the summer and fall – but it’s also a perfect winter activity. Strap on a pair of snowshoes and get ready to experience Durango’s winter beauty. There are plenty of maintained trails perfect for snowshoeing, including Purgatory Nordic Center and the Vallecito Reservoir. There are also plenty of unmaintained trails throughout the San Juan National Forest.
- Similarly, there are miles of groomed cross-country skiing trails in Durango, including those at the Durango Nordic Center near Purgatory, not to mention millions of acres of ungroomed trails that open up for winter recreation possibilities.
- For something unique, head out into Durango’s winter wonderland behind a team of dogs. Dog sledding is one of the most unique things to do in Durango during the winter.
- Warm up and relax at Durango Hot Springs, offering a perfect way to unwind after a day in the snow.
- During the winter, it’s not all about outdoor adventures here. Stroll through the historic downtown district, where you’ll find unique shops, art galleries, and plenty of cozy cafés and restaurants.
- Don’t miss Snowdown, Durango’s quirky winter festival featuring fun competitions, parades, and lively entertainment.
Of course, no trip to Durango is complete without relaxing at our welcoming, zen-like Bed and Breakfast. Antlers on the Creek is Durango’s top-rated place to stay and consistently earns glowing reviews from our guests. Experience this magnificent winter retreat for yourself, and book a room at our Durango, CO Bed and Breakfast today!
