Since 1966, Purgatory Ski Resort has drawn skiers from all over the world to Durango and has been a major part of the winter economy. It has grown over the years from a single chairlift and a few trails to a world class resort with 9 lifts, 91 trails, and over 2,000 feet of vertical drop.
Catalog number: 03.19.51
When skiing at Purgatory, remember the pioneers who braved the mountains on their “snowshoes.” Skiing for them was transportation but they must have enjoyed the beautiful scenery and the exhilaration of gliding across the snow as much as we do today.
Paul Folwell started the National Ski Patrol at Purgatory in 1965. They were busy that first day in December packing the snow on the trails as well as helping injured skiers. Robert McDaniel, founding Director of the Animas Museum, was an active member of the ski patrol for over 30 years. The jacket shown below is from the 70s.
Catalog number: 15.66.1 Gift of Robert L. McDaniel
Jean-Claude Killy, right, at Purgatory.
Catalog number: 96.28.97 Gift of Paul Souder
Walter Duncan and Joseph O’Neil in front of the race shack at Purgatory.
Catalog number: 96.28.42 Gift of Paul Souder
Ski school director Fritz Tatzer and 1960s celebrity Art Linkletter at Purgatory.
Catalog number: 96.28.43 Gift of Paul Souder
We hope you enjoyed this history of skiing in La Plata County!