Living in Southwest Colorado grants us immersion in consistently powdery slopes and gorgeous blue skies to match — and Glacier is the perfect locale to take on an unforgettable ski season from. Here’s a local guide on our neighboring ski resorts and what they have to offer this winter.

Purgatory Ski Resort

Famous for: Consistent snow and beautiful weather for stunning alpine views
Suited for: Family ski trips
Distance from Glacier: 10 miles
Ski season: November 21, 2021 – April 17, 2022.

Choice Runs:

• Getting the hang of it: Columbine off the Twilight Lift, Mercy
• Pleasure skiing: Upper Hades down Cherub via Purgatory Express Lift, Paradise
• Challenge trails: Bull Run, Blackburn Bash’s off Dante’s Lodge

Planning your adventure:

• Purchase lift tickets at least a day in advance for a discount
• Season passes come with varying options for area access and blackout dates
• A season pass is the best value for anyone who will ski at least 6 days

Our favorite après ski options: Purgy’s Slopeside Restaurant offers family-friendly dining right on the mountain, and Dante’s offers great backcountry mountain views via deck. For a cozy, rustic atmosphere on the way home from the mountain, drop by James Ranch. 

Telluride Ski Resort

Famous for: Varied terrain difficulty and beautiful weather
Suited for: Avid adventure skier
Distance from Glacier: 104 miles
Ski season: December 3, 2021 – April 3, 2022

Choice Runs:

• For new skiers: Galloping Goose, Village Bypass, Prospect Bowl
• For the freeskier: Ute Park Terrain Park, Hoot Brown if you’re X Games material
• Thrilling mogul runs: The Plunge, Revelation Bowl and Gold Hill

Planning your adventure:

• An unlimited season pass will free skiers of reservations and restrictions
• Reloadable daily lift tickets must be purchased in advance
• Purchase here

Our favorite après ski options: Ski in/ski out restaurant Alpino Vino is the highest-elevation restaurant in the continent, serving Italian alpine cuisine and a splendid wine collection. Peak’s Spa is another great post-ski destination to unwind after a day on the slopes.