"An independently owned, budget-friendly mountain with roughly 1,600 acres of terrain, multiple snow parks, and nearby natural hot springs. It’s known for extremely affordable lift tickets (starting as low as $9 based on demand) and a kid-friendly policy where children under 12 always ski free; on-site childcare (The Den) accepts youngsters up to age four. Lodging at the base offers classic ski amenities—lockers and a heated pool—without hefty resort fees, and nearby Durango provides low-cost dining and memorable evening activities like the Polar Express train ride." - Lydia Price Lydia Price Lydia Price is a senior engagement editor at Travel + Leisure, where she hosts short-form videos and leads content engagement initiatives. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"Located in the San Juan National Forest, Purgatory Resort is the most affordable ski destination according to Casino.org's study. It offers a variety of ski experiences with 11 lifts, 107 named trails, and multiple terrain parks over 1,600 acres. With variable pricing, single-day tickets can start from just $9." - Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca is an award-winning journalist and co-founder of Be a Travel Writer, an online course for the next generation of travel journalists. Her photos, videos, and words have appeare
"The most affordable ski destination in Colorado, offering a more budget-friendly skiing experience." - Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca is an award-winning journalist and co-founder of Be a Travel Writer, an online course for the next generation of travel journalists. Her photos, videos, and words have appeare
"Purgatory is affordable, friendly, and a whole lot of fun. The mountain offers 105 trails and a charming mountain village to explore." - Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca is an award-winning journalist and co-founder of Be a Travel Writer, an online course for the next generation of travel journalists. Her photos, videos, and words have appeare
"An 8-mile round trip moderate hike through aspen and fir forests along Cascade Creek, offering views of surrounding mountains."