New Lift At Colorado’s Purgatory Adds More Steep Terrain

Purgatory Resort in Colorado will open roughly 40 acres of new advanced and expert terrain for the 2026–27 winter, marking one of the largest steep‑terrain expansions in its recent history.

The new Colorado Couloir lift debuts this winter, adding five new advanced and expert trails, extensive gladed tree skiing and two connector routes that integrate the zone into the main mountain. The terrain sits in one of Purgatory’s steepest sectors, increasing the resort’s skiable acreage by about 40 acres.

“There’s a lot of attention on the Southwest with El Niño strengthening, and we’re giving skiers more reasons to visit Purgatory,” said Dave Rathbun, CEO of Purgatory Resort. “Colorado Couloir is bringing new advanced and expert trails and gladed tree skiing to one of the steepest parts of the mountain. We’re keeping lift tickets affordable, and with new nonstop service from Houston, there are some good reasons to start planning now.”

The lift also changes mountain circulation. From the Gelande parking area, skiers will be able to ride directly to the upper mountain and access backside terrain, removing the shuttle transfer previously required to start the day from Gelande.

Purgatory is also adding 13 acres of new snowmaking coverage on Divinity Trail, extending from the top of Twilight Chair (Lift 4) to its mid‑station. The upgrade is designed to improve early‑season connectivity for beginner terrain and provide more consistent conditions throughout winter.

Purgatory is keen to highlight that it’s lift tickets will be priced below $50 on 95 days of the 2026–27 season, representing around 70% of planned operating days. Select dates will feature $9 lift tickets, and eligible advance‑purchase tickets include $10 in Purgatory Cash to spend at the resort.  In addition children aged 12 and under ski free all season with the Power Kids Pass, which has no blackout dates.

Purgatory, which is positioned in the sweet spot seen as most likely to do well from the currently building El Niño system expected to peak towards the end of fall, is scheduled to open for the new season on Friday, Nov. 20, weather permitting.