Early Season Skiing at Purgatory: What to Expect
The wait is over. Purgatory Resort typically opens in late November, and those first days on snow are electric. The stoke is high, the air is cold, and even if the coverage is thin, nothing beats the feeling of clicking into bindings for the first time since spring.
What to Expect
Early season at Purgatory means limited terrain. The resort opens runs as snow allows, starting with the most reliable snowmaking areas and naturally covered slopes. Don't expect all 100+ runs to be open — you'll likely have a dozen or so available in the first couple weeks. But those runs will be groomed, and the snow will be good.
The Conditions
Early December conditions vary wildly year to year. Some years, Purgatory opens with a deep base from November storms. Other years, it's a thin cover supplemented by snowmaking. Either way, the skiing is fun. The base area and lower mountain runs are usually the first to open, with higher terrain coming online as the snowpack builds.
The Energy
Opening day and the first couple weekends of the season have a special energy. Locals who've been counting down since April are out in force. The parking lot has a party atmosphere. People are genuinely happy to be there, and that mood is contagious.
Tips
Tune your skis — rock encounters are more likely with thin early coverage. Dress warm; December temperatures at the base (8,793 feet) are often in the teens and single digits. Start your legs slow if you haven't been exercising — the first day of the season has a way of reminding you of muscles you forgot about.
Our townhome Basecamp sleeps eight, has a hot tub and pool table, and is right across from the resort with a free shuttle to the lift.
Planning a trip to Purgatory? Check availability at purgatory.pretzinger.com
Planning a trip to Purgatory? Check availability and book direct — save 10-15% vs Airbnb/VRBO.
