Things To Do
Purgatory Resort Activities
Available activities will be weather dependent. We'll post more information when we have it. Mountain Coaster, Alpine Slide, bike park, bungee trampoline, zipline, ropes course, tubing, climbing wall, paddle boards and boats, miniature golf, etc. Purgatory has partnerships with several other local organizations and can also help organize whitewater rafting, Jeep/ATV/offroading adventures, horseback riding, and more.
Durango
Durango is a an old mining town and still maintains the old west charm. Walk around downtown and visit historic hotels, galleries, and local stores like Maria's bookshop. Stop by Nature's Oasis on the way from the airport for some local food and wine. After a long hike, you can relax at Trimble Hot Springs located only 20 min from Purgatory.
Homeslice
Great pizza, salads, and sandwiches with a fun atmosphere. Joy's favorite pizza!
Steamworks Brewing Company
A classic downtown Durango stable with craft beer and tasty food. Not safe for those with peanut allergies.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad & Museum
This historic train starts in Durango, ends in Silverton, and winds through the beautiful San Juans. This is a classic Durango attraction and a Campbell favorite. We recommend you take the train to Silverton and the bus back.
Animas River
The Animas River runs through the middle of Durango is great for fishing, rafting, and kayaking. You can rent kayaks or go on a rafting trip organized by a local company.
San Juan National Forest
The San Juans are home to some of the best views and hikes in the Colorado Rockies. Bag a 14'er or check out a Campbell favorite (below). There are also many many more. Engineer Mountain Emerald Lakes Ice Lakes Basin Chicago Basin Highland Mary Lake Trail Little Molas Lake Million Dollar Highway (Drive) Vallecito Creek Hope Lake Cascade Creek
Mesa Verde National Park
You can't go wrong visiting Mesa Verde. The tours of cliff dwellings are worth the crowds - the park rangers are fantastic! If you have to pick one, try Balcony House - it is Joy's favorite! The entrance to the park is about 1 hr 15 min from Purgatory.
Phil's World Bike Trail
A local mountain biking treasure about 1 hr 15 min from Purgatory. Over 60 miles of trails with views of the LaPlatas, the Wilson group, the Abajos and even the LaSals. Make sure to take plenty of water.
Canyons of the Ancients National Monument
If you don't want to brave the crowds at Mesa Verde, we recommend you visit Canyons of the Ancients. Roughly a 2 hr drive from Purgatory Resort, you can explore the ruins without the crowds in Mesa Verde.
Wild Wild West Climbing
This area has some great, secluded climbing. Joy likes exploring the slot canyons, star gazing, and camping! Located roughly 3 hrs from Purgatory.
Arches National Park
Arches National Park, located outside Moab, UT, is home to over 2,000 natural stone arches in addition to other spectacular features like pinnacles, fins, and balanced rocks, and is one of our favorite places to visit. Located about 3 hr 15 min from Purgatory, it's a trip worth making.
Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands is a spectacular national park located outside Moab, UT. The park is split into two areas with different entrances, and navigating around some parts of the park requires relatively high clearance and 4-wheel drive - do your homework before venturing too far. About 3.5 hrs from Purgatory, the scenery is worth it.
Dead Horse Point State Park
Dead Horse Point is one of the most spectacular overlooks either of us have been to. With a 2,000-ft vertical drop overlooking a gooseneck of the Colorado River, the views during the day are incredible, but the stargazing after sunset may be even better. A little under 4 hrs from Purgatory, it's a bit of a trek, but it's worth it.