photos by David Halterman

After 32 years and one of the best seasons in recent memory, Purgys sang its swan song on Sunday to the tune of hundreds of sun-starved partygoers. In bidding farewell to the resorts most recognizable landmark, wellwishers sported some of Durangos finest retro fashion while downing Bloody Marys and PBR tall-boys. In between runs, the crowd was kept moving to the music of Purgys mainstays the Hounds of Purg. Of course, no season finale would be complete without a ceremonial bonfire, to show thanks to the snow gods and take care of some excess wood pallets. The blaze was only dampened slightly by the late afternoon snowball onslaught, and even though the flame at Purgys has gone out, it will live on in the hearts of local ski bums forever.

Current and former Purgatory employees cram together for a group shot on Sunday afternoon. Revelers brave a possible stray spark or back hair fire in order to perform their end-of-season cermonial dance. Matt Gerhardt finds time for reflection amidst the mayhem on Sunday. Bartender Marc Holland stayed busy slingin drinks and making change in his finest brown pinstripe suit during his last day behind the Purgys bar. Mike Smedley tosses out T-shirts, towels and other freebies to the many eager hands below. The pink and green day-glo reportedly could be seen from space. A few of the finest bloodies in the area get the finishing touches next to a pitcher of tips.