Monarch Mountain Ski Resort
# 9Family Friendly in North America
# 8Family Friendly in United States
# 2Family Friendly in Colorado
All ReviewsOverview
Monarch Mountain is an authentic Colorado ski resort with high elevations, abundant snowfall, gorgeous scenery and excellent terrain. The ski area is situated high along the Continental Divide in the Sawatch Range within the San Isabel National Forest near the towns of Salida, Buena Vista and Gunnison. The resort features amazing tree skiing, wide open alpine bowls and long intermediate trails.
Monarch Mountain is a perfect getaway for skiers and riders looking to avoid the crowds of the I-70 mega-resorts. Located about 150 miles southwest of Denver, Monarch Mountain is worth the trip to experience great natural terrain combined with short lift lines.
None at the Monarch Ski and Snowboard Area. Monarch Mountain Lodge is located three miles east of the ski area. There are a variety of lodging options, from budget hotels to B&B's, located in Salida, just 18 miles east of the ski area.
Terrain
Monarch Mountain is a great option for skiers and snowboarders in search of fresh powder and short lift lines. The ski area is relatively far away from Denver compared to some of the resorts along I-70 but offers less skier traffic on the slopes and in the car.
Monarch is situated along the continental divide and has ample tree skiing with wide open bowls and great intermediated cruisers. The snow-cat at Monarch shuttles skiers and snowboarders to expert terrain that is generally more advanced than some other ski area snow-cat operations.
Inside Scoop
Monarch is a great option for families due to its affordable prices and in-expensive lodging options in Salida, Buena Vista and Gunnison. There is a mountain day lodge located at the base with ski and snowboard schools, ski rentals and child care. There is parking located directly at the base of the mountain.
Best Time for Snow
Average Snowfall
67"
42"
28"
14"
0"
15"
Nov
56"
Dec
54"
Jan
55"
Feb
41"
Mar
14"
Apr
0"
May
Terrain Overview
23%
Beginners Runs
27%
Intermediate Runs
38%
Advanced Runs
13%
Expert Runs
67
Runs in Total
1 mi
Longest Run
800 ac
Skiable Terrain
Total Lifts: 7
1
Quad Chairs
4
Double Chairs
2
Surface Lifts
Elevation
11952'
Summit
1162'
Vertical Drop
10790'
Base
Important Dates
December 01, 20222022/12/01
Projected Opening
April 09, 20232023/04/09
Projected Closing
136
Projected Days Open
136
Days Open Last Year
84
Years Open
350"
Average Snowfall
Contact Information
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