While Vail snatches up big name resorts left and right, one man is capturing a part of the skiing population that doesn’t include high profile, destination skiers looking for the Beaver Creek or Deer Valley experience.
Related: Vail Resorts Buys Whistler Blackcomb For $1.39 Billion
James Coleman, who owns Purgatory, Arizona Snowbowl, Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort, and Pajarito mountains, has recently acquired Hesperus Ski Area just over 10 miles west of Durango, CO. According to The Durango Herald, Coleman announced the purchase Thursday saying, “We’re very happy to bring Hesperus Ski Area into our family of ski resorts in the Southwest.” He went on to add, “Hesperus offers incredible fall line skiing at a great value and is a natural fit in our portfolio of ski resorts.”
“Beginning this winter, Power Pass holders enjoy unlimited access to Purgatory, Pajarito, Sipapu, Arizona Snowbowl and Hesperus Ski Area—and the largest night skiing area in the Southwest.”– Ski Hesperus Website
Coleman plans to operate this season before assessing what improvements need to be made in the coming years. Currently. the mountain relies 100% on natural snowfall.
Mountain Stats
- Vertical Drop – 680′
- Annual Snowfall – 150″
- Skiable Terrain – 80 acres
- Lifts – 1
- Trails – 13
- Night Skiing – Yes
Find the entire Durango Herald article here: Purgatory owner buys Hesperus Ski Area