13 Fun Purgatory Ski Resort Summer Activities (Near Durango!)

Planning a visit to Purgatory Ski Resort this summer and wondering what to do?

While the resort is beloved for winter recreation and high-quality ski and snowboard routes, summer here sees tons of fun as well. From mountain biking and hiking to shopping and dining, there’s ample attractions in the warmer months.

I’ve visited Durango, Colorado many times during summer and even spent a weekend at Purgatory Ski Resort for a wedding, we had a blast! These are some of the best Purgatory Ski Resort summer activities to enjoy during your trip to Durango!

Top Purgatory Ski Resort Summer Activities

Mountain Biking

Hands down, the most popular summer activity at Purgatory Ski Resort is mountain biking. 

The park features a variety of trails for different skill levels, from beginner-friendly routes to challenging downhill tracks. 

Riders can enjoy stunning mountain scenery, well-maintained trails, and thrilling terrain that includes obstacles and technical sections, all of which are lift accessible.

If needed, the resort offers lessons and bike rentals.

Inferno Mountain Coaster

The Mountain Coaster at Purgatory Ski Resort is a much-loved attraction for all ages.

The coaster winds through the scenic mountain terrain, providing excellent views amid thrilling twists and turns. And don’t worry, the coaster cars are equipped with brakes, so you can control your own speed.

This is perfect for either kids or adults, it’s a lot of fun.

Looking for something a bit more low-key? The resort also has an alpine slide, perfect for the little ones.

Go Hiking

Hiking is a favorite among summer things to do at Purgatory Ski Resort. The resort features a network of trails with varying difficulties and distances, winding through pine forests, wildflowers, meadows, and valleys.

The World Cup XC trail and ski trails are open for hikers, but most mountain biking routes are closed to foot traffic.

Check out Purgatory Ski Resort Hiking Trail Map for more information: Purgatory Ski Resort Hiking.

Have A Spa Day

Looking to rest and reset during your visit?

Durango Hot Springs Spa in the Durango Mountain Club offers a rejuvenating full-service spa. Enjoy massages, facials, and other relaxing treatments during your stay.

Additionally, with your spa treatment, you receive access to the Durango Hot Springs Resort. The popular resort features 30 natural hot spring mineral pools and is located 20 minutes away.

Scenic Chairlift Ride

The summer scenic chairlift ride at Purgatory Ski Resort is a really fun way to take in the gorgeous San Juan Mountains. 

Lift 1 takes you up the mountain, allowing you to soak in the stunning scenery, including lush forests, alpine meadows, and rugged peaks. At the top, you can explore hiking trails, enjoy a picnic, or simply take in the views before heading back down.

Scenic Drive

There are a number of forest service roads at Purgatory which are open to vehicles in the summer months. These take you up through the forest and towards the resort’s summit, over 10,000 feet above sea level. 

These winding (and rugged) scenic routes are a great way to take in the beauty surrounding Purgatory Ski Resort.

Tip: The resort can also help arrange UTV and Jeep rentals or tours, check out information at Purgatory Ski Resort UTV & Jeep Rentals.

Shopping & Dining At The Base Of The Mountain

At the base of the resort you’ll find several shops supplying outdoor gear, clothing, and souvenirs. These stores cater to the needs of both winter sports enthusiasts and summer adventurers.

Dining options are equally ample in Purgatory Village. You’ll find casual eateries perfect for a quick bite as well as sit down meals. Purgy’s Slopeside Restaurant, Paradise Pizzeria, Waffle Cabin, and Village Market & Deli are a few of the many popular options.

Go Kart

A fun activity for older kids at Purgatory Ski Resort is the outdoor go kart track.

The Columbine base area is home to a different off-road kart track each summer, built by Colorado Backcountry Adventures. With twists and turns, plus obstacles for kids to navigate, this is a really exciting activity for the family to enjoy.

Treasure Panning 

Another fun activity for kids is treasure panning, which allows young ones to pan for gemstones and other treasures in a mining sluice. 

It’s a great way to learn about geology and the area’s rich mining history while enjoying a hands-on activity.

Relax At The Pool 

Purgatory’s outdoor pool provides a perfect respite from the summer heat, with plenty of space to swim, lounge, and soak up the sun. Surrounded by greenery and mountain views, the pool is a perfect area for guests to enjoy. 

Tip: For those with little ones, also check out nearby Purgatory Park playground.

Events At Purgatory Ski Resort

All summer, you’ll find numerous events going on in the village plaza. From the Mountain Archery Festival, Summer Brew Festival, Carve Wars, bike festivals, and more, there’s something going on just about every summer weekend.

Most events will have live music, plus local food and drinks, so it’s definitely worth stopping by.

For a list of this year’s events, check out Purgatory Ski Resort Events.

Twilight Lake

Twilight Lake is a small but beautiful alpine lake located right next to the resort. It’s popular for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and stand up paddle boarding. 

The lake stays pretty calm throughout the day thanks to its small size and no motorized boats.

If needed, there are canoe, kayak, and SUP rentals available on site.

The lake is located just across the highway from Purgatory Ski Resort and is accessible from Purgatory Village via a free shuttle.

Camping

Up for some camping?

Dispersed camping is permitted in certain areas of the San Juan National Forest surrounding Purgatory Ski Resort, providing opportunities for backcountry camping and immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the mountains.

These spots are accessible via the forest service roads in Purgatory.

Things To Do Near Purgatory Ski Resort In Summer

Looking for things to do near Purgatory Ski Resort? There’s so much to do in Durango and the surrounding region, consider the following activities:

• Visit Mesa Verde National Park.
• Ride the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
• Spend a day fishing.
• Check out nearby Nugget Mountain Bar (we were able to walk here from the resort and had a lot of fun).
• Go for a hike in the area.
• Drive the famous Million Dollar Highway.
• White water raft the Animas River.
• Explore the town of Durango.

For more ideas, check out Top Things To Do In Durango In Summer.

Purgatory Ski Resort Summer Passes & Tickets

Purgatory Ski Resort offers a few summer passes. There are day passes for one-time visitors, mountain bike passes for lift-accessible bike trails and courses, and a summer adventure pass which allows access to just about everything except the mountain bike trails.

Passes can be purchased on the day of, in person, check out Purgatory Ski Resort Summer Pass.

Parking At Purgatory Ski Resort In Summer

The resort offers ample parking near the base area and is free of charge.

While there are tons of spots, parking can fill on weekends, it’s best to arrive early if possible.

As you can see, there are so many fun things to do at Purgatory Ski Resort in summer! I hope you enjoy your time in this beautiful region of Colorado.

Any questions? Please leave a comment below or reach out on social media.

Looking for more ideas? Below are additional Durango and Colorado guides or head on over to Purgatory Ski Resort Summer Activities!

More Information For Your Durango Vacation:

• Durango, CO: Top Things To Do In Summer
• Durango Weekend Itinerary For Summer
• One Day In Durango Itinerary
• Durango Silverton Train: Everything You Need To Know
• Top Day Trips From Durango, CO
• All Durango Guides

More Information For Your Colorado Vacation:

• Top Colorado Mountain Towns For First-Time Visitors
• Best Colorado Cities & Regional Hubs For Visitors
• Colorado Travel Guide (everything you need to know!)
• All Colorado Guides