Dear Hesperus Community,
As we plan to roll out the 2024/2025 season passes next week, many of you may notice that Hesperus is not on the Power Pass, nor is Hesperus offering season passes for the 2024/2025 season. We want to be transparent about what’s going on.
We are sad to announce that Hesperus Ski Area will not operate for the 2024/2025 season. Both downhill and uphill skiing as well as winter tubing will not be available.
This has been a difficult decision following a difficult year. As many of you know, we were not able to open for the 2023/2024 winter season due to a mechanical issue with the gearbox on the Bighorn Lift, our sole chairlift at the ski area.
We love Hesperus and believe that this small ski area is crucial to keeping snow sports accessible here in our community. However, at this moment, as we face this extremely expensive repair, we have to consider Hesperus’ longevity. This decision ultimately comes down to a matter of water. It is imperative for us to be able to make snow to guarantee reliable conditions that keep guests coming year after year. Although plentiful water supply options are available and could be used, Hesperus does not currently have access to those sources. Several solutions have been identified, but an agreement has not yet been reached.
We want Hesperus to be open and operating again, but we must be able to ensure that it can operate reliably year after year for our community who loves it. Please know that we are working diligently on this, but in the meantime Hesperus will remain closed until we are able to secure water for snowmaking.
We’re willing to take on the challenges that come with keeping this little ski area alive. We love skiing and we want our kids and their kids to be doing it, too. Small resorts like Hesperus are the solution.
The last several months have not been easy, but the silver lining has been the unwavering support this community has given us. You have stood faithfully by Hesperus, and you inspire us to bring our best as we figure out how to Give People the Freedom to Ski at Hesperus. Thank you for sharing your ski days (and nights!) with us, your loyalty, and your belief in our future.
We will continue to keep you updated if, at any point, our plans change.
Sincerely,
Hesperus Ski Area
What does this mean for our guests our employees and our future?
What actions are you taking?
We are actively working to find a way forward for Hesperus. As we navigate the decisions regarding the future of Hesperus – both for the 2024/2025 season and beyond – we will ensure open communication with our employees and guests.
Please know that we are not giving up on Hesperus, but we are unable to confidently plan to open for the 2024/2025 season. We are disappointed yet determined, and we appreciate the support this community has shown in the face of these recent challenges.
What does this mean for the public?
We do not plan to operate Hesperus in any capacity for the 2024/2025 season. This includes both downhill and uphill skiing, as well as tubing.
Earlier this year, Purgatory was ranked #1 most affordable resort in Colorado by HomeToGo’s Colorado Ski Price Index. The value options for next winter include:
- Season passes will go on sale March 19. Check out the 4 Day Pass, 12 Day Pass and My Weekday Pass.
- Purgatory will offer a limited number of lift tickets as low as $9 for the 2024/2025 season. Tickets will go on sale this summer.
- SnoKatz kids’ program participants will be invited to participate in Snowburners.
- Purgatory will continue to offer FREE lessons to first-time skiers and snowboarders.
Will uphill skiing be offered at Purgatory Resort?
For public safety and to avoid disruption to the safe and timely opening of the mountain for winter alpine skiing operations, Purgatory Resort does not permit uphill travel of any kind, nor will it for the 2024/2025 season.
Uphill travel includes hiking, snowshoeing, skinning, or any other method of traveling uphill over snow.
Find the full uphill policy here: https://www.purgatory.ski/resort-policies/
What does this mean for employees and members of the Hesperus Ski Patrol team?
Hesperus employees will continue to have opportunities to work in a variety of roles at Purgatory.
Hesperus Ski Patrol activities, including training and other activities that allow patrollers to maintain their certifications, will continue to be offered through Purgatory Resort.
Where can I express my concerns and ask questions?
Guests may email concerns and questions to [email protected]. While we do not have a dedicated Hesperus representative available, we will do our best to respond in a timely manner. Please understand that due to the volume of inquiries, we may not be able to respond to everyone individually. We appreciate your support and patience during this time.
How can guests stay updated on Hesperus?
We will communicate plans and updates directly with guests through the Hesperus newsletter and on the Hesperus website (ski-hesperus.com).
What does this mean for the future of Hesperus?
We believe in Hesperus and small ski areas like it, and we’re willing to take on the challenges that come with them. We love skiing and we want our kids and their kids to be doing it, too. Small resorts are the solution, and we hope to be skiing Hesperus again soon. We’re not giving up!