Backcountry Skiing in Durango

Avalanche talks, field courses, and the backcountry community.

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Backcountry⚠ Needs verification

Avalanche Education Courses

Silverton Avalanche School

Winter recreational & pro courses · multi-day

Silverton, CO (1 hr north of Durango)

Beginner-friendlyPaidWinter

The oldest continuously operating avalanche school in the U.S. (since 1962) — AIARE Level 1/2 recreational and pro courses taught in the San Juans’ natural avalanche laboratory. The essential first step before touring this terrain. Register early; courses fill.

Backcountry⚠ Needs verification

Alpine Skiing & Touring Access

Purgatory Resort

Winter season · lifts + San Juan touring access

Purgatory Resort, Hwy 550 north of Durango

Beginner-friendlyPaidWinter

The closest lift-served skiing to Durango (25 miles north) and the staging area for backcountry touring along the Coal Bank and Molas pass corridor — carry avalanche gear, get training, and check the forecast.