ABOUT US
The magic behind The Black Diamond Lodge
Extraordinary moments deserve an impressive setting
At The Black Diamond Lodge, our mission is to create a memorable, highly personalized getaway experience for every guest— from wedding parties and family reunions to ski groups and retreat-goers. We strive to be the premier Colorado event and lodging destination by providing unmatched service, charming amenities, and unforgettably effortless events.
All we do, we do with welcoming warmth, proactive efforts, and a let’s-make-it-happen attitude. Because our guests (and theirs!) deserve nothing but the best.
The Black Diamond Lodge is more than a Durango venue
It was born out of two ski lovers’ desire to launch a fully-immersive, adventure-packed ski school
Photo of Jamie and Mary Clare Matthews fat tire biking in the San Juan Mountains.
For Jamie and Mary Clare Matthews, the call of the San Juan Mountains was simply irresistible.
When the opportunity arose to purchase Durango’s iconic Silverpick Lodge in 2021, they jumped at the chance to provide a group-centric Apres Ski and lodging experience for both the Purgatory skiing community and visitors from across the country.
After completing phase one of lodge and venue renovations— including adding new sought-after amenities, and expanding the lodge’s offerings in late 2021— the Austin-based couple is excited to offer a premium retreat and adventure experience for ski groups, wedding parties, retreats, athletic groups, and more.
“I’m so excited to be back in the San Juan Mountains. I am also very grateful to be a small part of helping to create meaningful adventures and memories for other families... in what I believe is one of the most strikingly beautiful areas of North America.”
~ Jamie Matthews, Lodge Owner + Co-Founder of Powder Term, a youth education and skiing program hosted at The Black Diamond Lodge
Why “The Black Diamond”?
Because from start to finish, nothing compares to the excitement of a black diamond slope.
Skiiers will instantly recognize our lodge’s nod to the infamously difficult— and incomparably thrilling— ungroomed and freshly-powdered steep ski runs that snake across the world’s sharpest slopes. These runs are known for their rugged beauty and unforgettable ride. And at The Black Diamond Lodge, we aim to offer the same epic mountain, at-the-ready service, and memorable experience as these heart-racing runs.
Our outstanding experiences are built on these core values:
Personalization
We believe the best service is personalized service— and treat every guest like family.
Excellence over everything
We offer an authentically excellent experience— from contract to check-out.
Sustainability and respect
We aim to preserve Durango’s natural beauty through our environment-first and community-centric policies.
Locals support locals
We prioritize local services, vendors, supplies, and community members by generously supporting Durango and Colorado with our business, our volunteering, and our venue.
Creativity
We’re solution-finders and way-makers— embracing creativity and innovation, from design and decor to guest experiences and amenities.
Down-home hospitality
Our home is your home. We welcome every guest, exceed expectations, and create a warm and inclusive atmosphere in every room.
The Black Diamond Lodge is supported by Durango Event Planners
We bring order to chaos, serving as the people-power and organization behind some of Durango’s best events.
At Durango Event Planners, we make parties fun, pretty, and effortless—for you and your guests. We believe life is best done together: so let us co-create your next rave-worthy event.
