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Why We Chose Purgatory Over Vail (And Never Looked Back)

Why We Chose Purgatory Over Vail (And Never Looked Back)

ByCraig Pretzinger
••2 min read
Purgatory vs Vailbest Colorado ski resortaffordable skiing ColoradoPurgatory Resort review

When we were looking at places to invest in vacation rentals near a Colorado ski resort, we looked at all the usual suspects — Vail, Breckenridge, Steamboat, Telluride. We ended up at Purgatory, and we've never second-guessed it.

The Value

Let's start with the obvious: everything at Purgatory costs less. Lift tickets, lodging, dining, gas — all of it. A family of four can do a week at Purgatory for what they'd spend on three days at Vail. That's not an exaggeration.

The Mountain

Purgatory has 1,600 acres, 100+ runs, and 8 lifts. It's not as big as Vail (5,300 acres), but it's big enough for a full week without getting bored. The terrain is well-distributed across ability levels, and the mountain is well-designed — no confusing traverses, no getting lost on the back side.

The Town

Durango is a real town with real character. It has a brewery scene, great restaurants, a historic railroad, and a river running through it. It's not a manufactured resort village — it's a community that happens to be near great skiing.

The Vibe

Purgatory is friendly. People say hi on the lift. Locals are welcoming. The base area doesn't feel exclusive or intimidating. It's the kind of place where you show up in last year's jacket and nobody notices or cares.

The Location

Durango is in the San Juan Mountains — arguably the most beautiful range in Colorado. The Million Dollar Highway, Mesa Verde, Silverton, Ouray, Telluride — all within day-trip range. The setting is world-class even if the resort doesn't have world-class name recognition.

The Bottom Line

Big-name resorts are great if you want the brand. Purgatory is great if you want the experience. We'll take the experience.

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.