Located in Southern Colorado, Monarch Ski Area is a small ski and snowboard resort atop the continental divide. It’s a sleepy, old-school skiing and riding destination that attracts small crowds and boasts some of the best powder in Colorado.
Lodging
Staying at Monarch Mountain is an excellent choice for those seeking a rustic, off-the-beaten-path experience. Guests can choose from a variety of lodging options, including cabins and homes for rent near the ski area.
The slopes are located just 18 miles from the town of Salida and provide a great base for exploring. A free shuttle service is available to get you to and from the resort.
You’ll find a variety of accommodations at Monarch Mountain, from budget hotels to upscale B&Bs. The most convenient and comfortable option is a room at the Monarch Mountain Lodge, which offers a variety of amenities.
Comfortable rooms offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Guests can also enjoy a hot tub and an indoor pool. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Each room is equipped with a TV and cable channels. A refrigerator and microwave are provided for added convenience. A complimentary continental breakfast is served each morning.
Other facilities at the lodge include an outdoor pool, spa, and a fitness center. You can also take part in guided spring and summer rafting or horseback riding tours.
Beginners and intermediates will love the extensive learning terrain at Monarch. There’s a variety of novice zones, from a bunny hill to a dedicated beginner chairlift. Green trails spread across most resort pods, and novice skiers are guaranteed to find something that fits their skill level.
Snowfall is typically lower than top-tier Colorado ski areas, but big storms can often make up for it. Snow at Monarch tends to be light and stays on the mountain for days, and big snowstorms in the San Juan Mountains can create excellent tree skiing.
There’s also plenty of untouched off-piste to explore. It’s not much more varied than the pisted runs, but it can be a fun place to explore new lines.
Getting to Monarch is relatively easy, although it’s not as convenient as some of the other destinations along the I-70 corridor. It takes more than three hours to drive from downtown Denver, and the access highway can be closed in bad weather.
However, the resort’s smaller size and location in a less-traveled area means it doesn’t attract the same traffic congestion or crowds that some Summit and Eagle county competitors do. That can make the slopes feel empty during low-snow periods, but that’s not always a negative.
The lifts at Monarch are among the cheapest in the state, and you can even purchase a discounted lift ticket online ahead of time. It’s a great way to ski the slopes at a cheaper price than at the bigger nearby Crested Butte or Telluride.
If you’re traveling with children, the Monarch Mountain Lodge offers childcare for those aged 3 to 6. The childcare staff are trained to ensure kids have a good time, and they will keep them busy and safe while you ski or snowboard.