Closing Day at Purgatory: How to Send Off Ski Season
Closing day at Purgatory is part ski day, part costume party, part farewell ceremony. It's the mountain's way of saying goodbye to winter, and everyone shows up to send it off properly.
What Happens
The highlight is the pond skim — skiers and snowboarders attempt to cross a man-made pond at the base of the mountain. Some glide across gracefully. Most don't. The crowd loves every spectacular crash.
Costumes are encouraged. You'll see everything from banana suits to full tuxedos to creative group themes. Nobody is skiing in normal gear on closing day.
The Skiing
The skiing itself is usually excellent. Late March or early April snow is soft and forgiving, and the festive atmosphere makes every run feel celebratory.
The Aftermath
The base area usually has music, food, and drinks going after the lifts stop. It's a community gathering — locals, regulars, and visitors all mixing together for one last mountain moment.
Tips
Check Purgatory's website for the exact closing date — it varies year to year based on conditions. Get there early for parking. Bring a costume or at least something ridiculous to wear. And take that one last run slowly. Soak it in.
Our townhome Timberline is right across from Purgatory — three bedrooms, a hot tub, a fireplace, and a free shuttle to the lift.
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