Your Winter Packing List for a Purgatory Ski Trip
Packing for a ski trip is always a negotiation between preparedness and overpacking. Here's the definitive list for a winter trip to Purgatory.
Ski Gear
Ski jacket and pants. Waterproof and insulated. Purgatory's base sits at 8,793 feet, and January temps regularly drop below zero on the mountain. Invest in quality outerwear.
Base layers. Merino wool or synthetic — never cotton. You'll want at least two sets so one can dry while you wear the other.
Mid layer. A fleece or lightweight down puffy that fits under your jacket.
Gloves or mittens. Bring two pairs. Mittens are warmer; gloves offer more dexterity. Waterproof matters.
Helmet. Non-negotiable. Rent one if you don't own.
Goggles. Low-light and bright-light lenses if your goggles support swapping.
Neck gaiter or balaclava. For the cold mornings and windy ridgelines.
Off-Mountain
Warm boots for walking. Ski boots are for skiing. You need something warm and waterproof for walking around Durango.
Casual warm layers. Fleece, flannel, whatever you're comfortable in after a day of skiing.
Swimsuit. For the hot tub. Trust me, the hot tub after skiing is the best part of the day.
Often Forgotten
Hand and toe warmers. Lip balm with SPF. Sunscreen (yes, even in winter). A small backpack for carrying layers on the mountain. Ibuprofen for sore legs.
What to Leave Home
Heavy books (you'll be too tired to read). Dress shoes. More than one pair of jeans. Anything you'd wear to a gym — the mountain IS your gym.
Our townhome Timberline is right across from Purgatory — three bedrooms, a hot tub, a fireplace, and 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.
