- Steve Larese
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- bikemag.com
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- April 9, 2025
In a letter posted on Purgatory Resort’s website, General Manager Dave Rathbun announced that Purgatory Bike Park will not open for the 2025 season, citing the resource strain of installing the new Gelande chairlift and new ski trails for the resort’s winter operations.
“In order to prioritize the ski lift and trail construction in our effort to ‘give people the freedom to ski,’ and at the same time ensure the safety of our guests, homeowners and employees throughout the summer and fall, the Purgatory Bike Park will be taking a sabbatical this season,” Rathbun said. “This temporary closure will allow us to focus our efforts and resources on the construction project. We understand this may be disappointing for our avid mountain bikers, and we appreciate your understanding.”
Rathbun said the new triple chair will access the top of the mountain without having to go through the Columbine or Village base areas while adding to the advanced and expert terrain offered on the frontside of the mountain. Purgatory is in the process of creating two new groups of 12 to 15 year-round employees to work on this project.
Rathbun said that crews will be improving and maintaining the bike trails during the closure.
“We understand that the temporary closure of the Mountain Bike Park may be an adjustment, but we are confident that the long-term benefits of the new Gelande chairlift and ski terrain will be well worth it. We appreciate your patience and support as we work to enhance our mountain experience for everyone. We look forward to welcoming you back to the Purgatory Bike Park when it reopens,” he said.
Purgatory Resort is owned by Mountain Captial Partners that owns 15 ski areas in Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, Nevada, Oregon and Chile. In addition to the Purgatory Resort bike park, the company also has bike parks at its Pajarito Mountain resort in New Mexico, Brian Head Resort in Utah, Spider Mountain Bike Park in Texas and La Parva Bike Park in Chile.
