 High astride the Continental Divide in central Colorado sits Monarch Ski and Snowboard Area. The area is shaped a bit like a catcher's mitt, so with a base elevation of 10,790 feet and a summit just shy of 12,000 feet it catches an average of 350" of snow each year. The high elevation and semi-arid climate conspire to keep what does fall dry and long-lasting. There is, understandably, no snowmaking at the mountain. Monarch's reputation as a powder haven more than compensates for its modest (by Colorado standards) statistics: 670 acres of lift-served terrain, 1170 feet of vertical, and five lifts. There are also 900 acres of backcountry terrain available via a snow cat operation. While it may seem to lack size, it also lacks crowds. It's surrounded by the San Isabel National Forest, so the woods aren't full of trophy homes and condo clusters. The five lifts-one fixed-grip quad and four doubles-easily reach all corners of the terrain and keep the "crowds" dispersed. Novices would do best to stick to the Tumbelina lift, but more experienced beginners will find a run from the summit and also several options off the quad. Intermediates have choices off all five lifts but will find the Breeze Way double most productive. The most advanced marked terrain is neither killer nor long, but with all that long-lasting powder around there are plenty of unmarked tree shots, drops, ledges, and small ridges all around the mountain. Adventurous visitors who plan to stick around for a few days would do well to sign up for a day of snow cat skiing. Adventurous locals tend to take to the backcountry on their own. Salida, Poncha Springs, Buena Vista, and Gunnison surround Monarch, with Gunnison the most distant at 45 miles. Retail stores are well-represented by outdoor equipment shops, antique and collectible havens, and assorted galleries. Dining choices lean toward the casual and eclectic, although a few places-Dakota's Bistro and Laughing Ladies-prefer reservations and have respectable wine lists. After a tough day on the mountain join the locals at the Sidewinder Saloon and Lounge, top floor of the base lodge, before heading down US 50 to the bright lights of Salida.
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Ski Report
Colorado