Essential Guide to Skiing at Monarch Mountain, Colorado

If you want a true, independent Colorado ski experience, head south to Monarch Mountain. This is a small and more affordable ski resort located about 20 miles west of the town of Salida.

It can be easy to overlook lesser-known ski destinations in Colorado and head where most of the tourists go, to the resorts with big budgets, shopping villages, mega marketing campaigns, and international fame. However, consider veering off the beaten path for a unique experience. Monarch Mountain is in south-central Colorado just outside Salida, near U.S. 50 and U.S. 285. It’s easy to access, as the drive is just under three hours from Denver and about two hours from Colorado Springs. It is located in the San Isabel National Forest along the Continental Divide.

Overview of Monarch Mountain

Monarch first opened its doors in the 1930s with a tow rope pulled by a Chevy engine. Back then, a day ticket cost a quarter, and a season pass was only $1, with just 64 sold.

The mountain began to attract more tourism to the region, contributing to the development of downtown Salida, which is now a certified creative district. Established in the late 1800s, Salida has a rich history rooted in mining and agriculture.

Over the years, Monarch Mountain expanded to include backcountry terrain (Mirkwood Basin), conveyor lifts, and the Monarch Outpost, which serves as the central gathering spot of the mountain.

Today, Monarch is not as busy as many ski resorts closer to Denver, yet it remains popular among residents living to the south of the metro area. It’s a friendly and casual place with free parking and varied terrain.

Due to its elevation at 12,000 feet above sea level on the Continental Divide, weather on Monarch Mountain can be unpredictable. Notably, the mountain receives 350 inches of natural snow annually. Therefore, visitors should ensure they drink enough water, rest adequately, and take precautions to ward off altitude sickness.

Terrain Details

In total, Monarch Mountain offers 800 skiable acres, which consist of 14 green, 17 blue, 23 black, and eight double black runs. Notable runs include Skywalker, following the ridgeline, and Mirkwood Basin, with 130 acres of double-black diamond skiing.

Monarch provides terrain suitable for all skiing levels:

• Advanced: Start at the Picante run, then head to Panorama Lift off the Great Divide Run or Kanonen (accessed via the Garfield Lift). The extreme Mirkwood Basin requires a 10- to 20-minute hike into nature. Staircase run is also for advanced skiers.
• Intermediate: Take the Breeze Way lift to the north side and proceed to Panorama. Additional intermediate runs are available on Pioneer and Garfield.
• Beginner: Beginners can enjoy the Tumbelina lift, Caterpillar lift, Snowflake, and Rookie runs.
• Monarch also features terrain parks that cater to both beginners and advanced athletes, without the long lines often found at other Colorado resorts. The Never Summer Terrain Park is great for those experienced in terrain parks, while the Tilt Terrain Park is ideal for newbies or intermediate skiers and snowboarders.

Lift Tickets Pricing

Adult tickets start at $89 per day, while a child (age 7 to 12) ticket costs $43. Notably, children under 6 and seniors older than 69 ski for free.

Dining Options

Monarch Mountain and the surrounding area offer several dining venues to refuel after a day on the slopes. Here are a few highlights:

• Sidewinder Saloon: Visit for locally brewed beer and a full menu in a casual setting. Enjoy burgers, nachos, and bloody Marys, and don’t miss the happy hour.
• Java Stop: Perfect for coffee lovers, Java Stop serves locally roasted coffee and espresso, along with standard baked goods and light refreshments.
• Gunbarrel Cafeteria: This cafeteria offers a wide selection of food, from breakfast sandwiches to Angus burgers and homemade pizza.
• Elmo’s Bar: Relax with a bloody Mary and enjoy slope views at this full-service bar open during weekends and holidays.
• The Grill at Monarch Mountain Lodge: Offering dinner from 5-9 p.m., dine on burgers, tacos, and more, in addition to a breakfast buffet.

Rentals and Gear

The Outer Edge Shop is the main rental location on Monarch Mountain. Be sure to reserve your equipment at least two days in advance, especially during peak skiing times.

Lessons and Clinics

Monarch Mountain provides a ski school catering to all ages and skills, including:

• Private lessons.
• The Mini & Me program for kids ages 3 through 6, offering coaching tips for parents.
• Junior Mountain Kids, tailored for ages 7 through 12.
• A teen group class with certified instructors for those aged 13 and older.
• Ski With a Naturalist, a special tour held on Fridays that combines skiing with learning about local wildlife and the history of the resort.

Alternative Activities

If skiing or snowboarding isn’t on your agenda, Monarch Mountain offers numerous other winter activities, including:

• Snowcat tours to backcountry terrain, including lunch in a yurt.
• Snowshoeing, sledding, tubing, and cross-country skiing along Old Monarch Pass Road.
• Guided or independent snowmobiling in backcountry areas.
• Dog sled rides.
• Community events such as Kid’s Fest and Kayaks on the Snow.

In the summer, explore other activities like:

• Hiking or mountain biking on scenic trails.
• Whitewater rafting or a leisurely float trip on the Arkansas River.
• ATV rides and fishing on the river.
• Golfing, and exploring nearby attractions like the Great Sand Dunes and Royal Gorge Bridge.
• Shopping and events in downtown Salida.
• Participating in art, wine, and food festivals like FIBArk.
• Relaxing in the Salida Hot Springs, the largest indoor hot springs facility in the U.S.
• Engaging in outdoor activities, including horseback riding and wildlife viewing.

Lodging Options

Monarch Mountain is less commercialized than many other resorts, resulting in fewer hotel options but more private rentals. Here are a few notable lodging choices in the area:

• Creekside Chalets: Located about 10 minutes from the mountain, these pet-friendly chalets come with equipped kitchens, private hot tubs, and scenic views, ideal for romantic getaways or privacy-seeking travelers.
• Monarch Mountain Lodge: The only hotel at Monarch, featuring a free shuttle, indoor pool, hot tubs, and various amenities tailored for group stays.
• Ski Town Condos: Situated in the historic mining town of Garfield, just three miles from the ski area, these vacation rentals are suitable for larger groups with rustic mountain decor and modern conveniences.