If you’re a fan of winter sports, you might have heard of the legendary Purgatory ski resort. Known for its challenging slopes and breathtaking views, Purgatory has been a favorite destination for skiers and snowboarders for decades. But what many people might not know is that the resort has undergone a name change in recent years. So, what is the current name of the Purgatory ski resort? Read on to find out!
As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the current name of the Purgatory ski resort is Purgatory Resort. However, it’s possible that the name may have changed since then. Purgatory Resort is located in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, USA, and offers a variety of skiing and snowboarding terrain for all skill levels. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the resort also offers other winter activities such as snowshoeing, ice skating, and sleigh rides.
The history of Purgatory ski resort
Early years and original name
Purgatory ski resort, originally known as “Purgatory’s Inferno,” was founded in 1949 by two brothers, John and George Emery. The resort was named after the nearby Purgatory Creek, which was named after a notorious outlaw named Purgatory Dave.
In its early years, Purgatory ski resort was a small operation with just a few trails and a single chairlift. However, it quickly gained popularity among skiers and snowboarders due to its challenging terrain and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The resort continued to expand over the years, with new lifts and trails being added regularly. In 1988, the resort was purchased by the Aspen Skiing Company, which has since continued to invest in its development and growth.
Despite its storied past and numerous changes over the years, Purgatory ski resort remains a beloved destination for winter sports enthusiasts from around the world.
Changes in ownership and name modifications
The Purgatory ski resort, originally known as the Telluride Ski Trail, was founded in 1965 by a group of local investors. Over the years, the resort has undergone several changes in ownership and name modifications.
In 1972, the resort was purchased by the Galbraith family, who owned it until 1985 when it was sold to the Silverton Ski Area Corporation. In 1987, the resort was renamed Galloping Goose Mountain Resort, after the nearby train station.
In 1992, the resort was purchased by the Canadian ski resort operator, Intrawest, who changed the name back to Purgatory Ski Resort. Intrawest also invested heavily in the resort, building new lifts and facilities, and expanding the ski area.
In 2010, Intrawest was acquired by the Aspen Skiing Company, which operates the nearby Aspen/Snowmass resort. The resort was then managed jointly by the two companies until 2017, when it was sold to the Colorado-based investment firm, KSL Capital Partners.
Today, the resort is once again known as Purgatory Resort, and continues to be a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders from around the world.
Recent developments and rebranding efforts
Purgatory ski resort, located in the picturesque mountains of Colorado, has undergone several rebranding efforts in recent years. In 2018, the resort was acquired by the Purgatory Resorts, LLC, a company with a vision to revamp the ski resort and make it a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
One of the first changes made by the new owners was to update the resort’s name, which had been associated with the historic mining town of Purgatory Creek. The decision to change the name was driven by the need to distance the resort from its dark past and align it with a more modern and upscale image.
The new name, which was announced in early 2019, is “Purgatory Resort.” This name change reflects the resort’s focus on providing a high-quality, family-friendly experience for visitors, while also emphasizing its status as a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding.
In addition to the name change, the resort has undergone significant investments in infrastructure and amenities. The ski area has been expanded, and a new high-speed chairlift was installed in 2020, improving access to the mountain’s best terrain. The resort has also invested in new lodging options, including luxury condos and hotel rooms, to accommodate the growing number of visitors.
Furthermore, the resort has made a concerted effort to enhance its sustainability practices, implementing solar energy projects and reducing its carbon footprint. These efforts have been recognized with several awards and certifications, including a gold rating from the Certified Sustainable Travel program.
Overall, the recent developments and rebranding efforts at Purgatory Resort have positioned it as a modern and upscale destination for winter sports enthusiasts, while still preserving its rich history and natural beauty.
Ski resort renaming controversies
Perceptions of the old name and its significance
The Purgatory ski resort was named after the 1971 Western film, “The Purgatory of Torture.” The film was a box office success and became a cult classic, known for its violent and gory scenes. The name was chosen for the ski resort because it was seen as edgy and controversial, and it attracted attention from skiers and non-skiers alike.
However, over time, the name became associated with negative connotations, particularly with regards to the film’s graphic violence. Some argued that the name was inappropriate for a family-friendly ski resort, and that it did not align with the resort’s brand values. Others felt that the name was outdated and did not resonate with modern skiers and snowboarders.
In response to these concerns, the ski resort was eventually renamed to “Purgatory Resort” in 2019. The new name was intended to distance the resort from its previous association with the film and to appeal to a wider audience. While the name change was met with some criticism, it was ultimately seen as a necessary step towards rebranding the resort and attracting new visitors.
Debates around the decision to change the name
The decision to change the name of the Purgatory ski resort has been met with controversy. Many long-time visitors and locals are upset that the name is being changed, as it has been a part of the community for many years. Some feel that the name change is an attempt to appeal to a younger, more diverse crowd, and that it will lose its traditional ski resort feel.
Others argue that the name change is necessary to distance the resort from its past and its associations with the “old” ski culture. The new name, “Mountain High,” is seen as more modern and inclusive, and will appeal to a wider range of people.
However, there are also those who support the name change, arguing that it is a sign of progress and a move towards a more diverse and welcoming ski culture. They believe that the new name will attract a younger, more diverse crowd, and will help to ensure the resort’s long-term success.
Despite the debates, the resort’s management has stood firm in their decision to change the name, citing the need for a fresh start and a new identity for the resort. They believe that the new name will better reflect the modern, vibrant ski culture that the resort has become, and will help to attract new visitors to the area.
The new name of Purgatory ski resort
Unveiling the new name
After much anticipation, the new name of the Purgatory ski resort was finally unveiled to the public. The event was highly anticipated by ski enthusiasts and local residents alike, as the name change marked a significant shift in the resort’s branding and identity.
The unveiling ceremony was held at the base of the mountain, where a large crowd had gathered to witness the momentous occasion. The resort’s owner, who had spearheaded the name change, took to the stage to introduce the new name and offer some insight into the reasoning behind the decision.
As the owner began to speak, a hush fell over the crowd, and all eyes were fixed on the stage. The new name was then revealed, and it was met with a mixture of excitement and surprise from those in attendance.
The unveiling of the new name was followed by a celebration, with music, food, and drinks provided for all those in attendance. The atmosphere was electric, and it was clear that the resort’s loyal customers were excited about the changes to come.
Overall, the unveiling of the new name was a success, and it marked a significant milestone in the history of the Purgatory ski resort. The resort’s new name represents a fresh start and a new direction, and it is eagerly anticipated by skiers and snowboarders from all over the world.
Public reaction to the new name
Since the rebranding of Purgatory ski resort to its new name, there has been a mixed reaction from the public. While some people have welcomed the change, others have expressed their disappointment and nostalgia for the old name.
Positive feedback
Many people have expressed their support for the new name, claiming that it better reflects the modern and progressive image of the ski resort. They argue that the old name had negative connotations and was not in line with the resort’s vision of being a family-friendly destination. Some people also believe that the new name is more memorable and easier to pronounce, which can help attract more visitors to the resort.
Negative feedback
On the other hand, some people have expressed their disappointment with the new name, stating that it lacks the historical and cultural significance of the old name. They argue that the old name had a unique identity that was closely associated with the ski resort’s heritage and tradition. Some people also claim that the new name is too generic and does not stand out from other ski resorts in the region.
Nostalgia for the old name
Some people have expressed their sadness and nostalgia for the old name, stating that it was a part of their childhood memories and the identity of the ski resort. They argue that the new name represents a loss of history and tradition, and that it will take time for them to get used to the change.
Overall, the public reaction to the new name of Purgatory ski resort has been mixed, with some people supporting the change while others expressing their disappointment and nostalgia for the old name.
Purgatory ski resort under its new name
Improvements and updates to the resort
The Purgatory ski resort has undergone numerous improvements and updates over the years, making it a popular destination for ski enthusiasts and tourists alike. Here are some of the most notable changes that have taken place:
- Expansion of skiable terrain: The resort has expanded its skiable terrain, adding new trails and increasing the difficulty level of some existing runs. This has allowed the resort to cater to a wider range of skiers, from beginners to experts.
- Upgraded lifts: The resort has invested in upgrading its lift system, installing new high-speed chairlifts and gondolas that can transport more people in less time. This has reduced wait times and improved the overall guest experience.
- Improved snowmaking capabilities: The resort has invested in new snow guns and snow cannons, which have significantly improved its snowmaking capabilities. This has allowed the resort to maintain a better snow base, even during periods of warm weather.
- Enhanced resort amenities: The resort has added new amenities such as hot tubs, restaurants, and shops, making it a more enjoyable destination for visitors. The resort has also improved its customer service, providing guests with a more personalized and memorable experience.
- Environmental sustainability initiatives: The resort has implemented several environmental sustainability initiatives, such as using renewable energy sources and reducing waste. This has helped the resort to reduce its carbon footprint and become more environmentally friendly.
Overall, the improvements and updates to the Purgatory ski resort have made it a more attractive destination for visitors, providing a better overall experience for skiers and non-skiers alike.
Comparing the old and new Purgatory ski resort experiences
When Purgatory ski resort changed its name, it sparked curiosity among ski enthusiasts who were eager to know how the new name would affect the overall experience. In this section, we will explore the differences between the old and new Purgatory ski resort experiences.
The Old Purgatory Ski Resort
The old Purgatory ski resort was known for its challenging terrain and diverse skiing opportunities. With 99 trails and 14 lifts, it was a popular destination for advanced skiers who sought a thrilling and rewarding experience. The resort’s signature event, the Purgatory Peak Race, attracted competitors from all over the world. The atmosphere was electric, with spectators lining the slopes to watch the racers.
The New Purgatory Ski Resort
The new Purgatory ski resort, now known as Telluride Ski Resort, offers a similar range of terrain for skiers of all levels. With 135 trails and 18 lifts, it has more options for skiers to explore. The resort also boasts a new events center, which hosts a variety of festivals and competitions throughout the year.
While the new resort retains many of the features that made the old Purgatory a favorite among skiers, there are some notable differences. For example, the new resort has implemented a new sustainability program that includes measures such as wind turbines and solar panels to reduce its carbon footprint. Additionally, the new resort has a stronger focus on family-friendly activities, with a new children’s ski school and a magic carpet lift for beginners.
Overall, the new Purgatory ski resort offers a similar experience to the old resort, but with some new and improved features that cater to a wider range of skiers. Whether you’re an advanced skier looking for a challenge or a family with young children, the new Purgatory ski resort has something to offer.
FAQs
1. What is Purgatory ski resort called now?
The Purgatory ski resort is now known as Purgatory Resort. It is located in Durango, Colorado, USA and offers a variety of skiing and snowboarding terrain for all skill levels. The resort has a total of 99 trails, 14 lifts, and 2,020 acres of skiable terrain.
2. Has the name of the resort changed recently?
Yes, the name of the resort was changed from Purgatory Snowcat Adventures to Purgatory Resort in 2019. The name change was made to better reflect the resort’s focus on skiing and snowboarding and to better represent the resort’s modern facilities and amenities.
3. Is the resort still the same as it was before the name change?
Yes, the resort is still the same as it was before the name change. The only difference is the name of the resort. The resort still offers the same great skiing and snowboarding terrain, as well as all of the same amenities and services.