How to Score a Powder Day at Purgatory
A powder day at Purgatory is one of those experiences that reminds you why skiing exists. Fresh, untracked snow covering the mountain, the sound muffled, the turns effortless. Here's how to make the most of one.
Tracking the Storm
Start watching the forecast three to five days out. Purgatory sits in the San Juan Mountains, which get their moisture from the west and southwest. Winter storms rolling in from the Pacific often deliver the goods, and the San Juans can get hit when other Colorado ranges don't.
Follow the resort's snow report and social media for real-time updates. When they report 6+ inches overnight, it's game time.
First Chair Strategy
On a powder morning, be at the lift before it opens. Seriously. The best stashes get tracked out by mid-morning on a big day. Have your gear ready the night before — boots by the door, pass in your pocket, breakfast already planned.
Where to Go
The trees are where powder hides longest. While everyone is hitting the groomed runs, the glades between runs hold untracked snow for hours. If you're comfortable in trees, that's where the best skiing is on a powder day.
The upper mountain and the runs off the top lifts typically have the deepest snow. The higher you go, the more it stacks up.
The Gear
Wider skis float better in powder. If you don't own powder skis, consider renting a fat pair for the day from a local shop. It makes a huge difference in how deep snow feels.
The Feeling
There's no way to adequately describe a powder day to someone who hasn't experienced one. The weightless feeling of floating through fresh snow, the spray off your tips, the silence of a snow-covered mountain — it's as close to flying as skiing gets.
Both of our Purgatory townhomes — Basecamp and Timberline — are right across from the resort with hot tubs, EV chargers, and free shuttle access.
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.