A long-established ski hill in southwest Colorado is celebrating a major transformation this season, thanks to significant investments that bring Chapman Hill into the modern era.
Durango’s Chapman Hill, a local fixture for over 70 years, has undergone approximately $3 million in upgrades, according to Kelli Jaycox, the city’s assistant recreation director.
The most notable changes include the replacement of the ski hill’s two rope tows. The iconic “big tow,” originally brought from the 10th Mountain Division’s World War II training grounds near Leadville, has been replaced by a modern Leitner-Poma platter lift. The smaller “little tow” has also been upgraded to a Telecord tow.
“The old rope tows were on their last legs and barely functioning,” Jaycox said. “They were a constant challenge to keep running, so it was time for an upgrade. The new system has exceeded our expectations in terms of traffic and usage.”
Chapman Hill has seen a marked increase in visitors, with season pass sales jumping to 701 this year, up from 554 for the 2023-24 season. Despite limited snowfall, the hill has sold 1,510 daily tickets through January, showing strong demand. Adult tickets are priced at $16.
New snowmaking equipment and a snowcat have helped improve conditions on the hill, while updated lighting has enhanced the experience for those taking part in the long-standing tradition of night skiing.
Since its opening in 1955, Chapman Hill has been the go-to spot for local skiers, particularly for families and young racers.
“Nearly everyone who grew up in Durango has learned to ski here, and now their kids are doing the same,” Jaycox noted.
The hill is also attracting more visitors from outside Durango, who are choosing Chapman Hill for affordable lessons, as an alternative to the larger, more expensive Purgatory Resort nearby. Last season, Chapman Hill offered 282 group and private lessons.
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