Monarch Mountain is located in south central Colorado, well south of the freeway madness that gridlocks Interstate 70 from Denver to the Front Range resorts each weekend. Located on Highway 50 on the Continental Divide, Monarch is very accessible.  It’s also one of the oldest ski areas in Colorado, established in 1939.

Monarch Mountain is what you expect from a real Colorado ski area. Abundant natural snow (350+ inches) and friendly people are two of our strongest attributes. You can walk from your car right to the lifts, prices are reasonable, and the runs flow naturally back to the base area. At Monarch you’ll lose the crowds but not your friends.

Monarch is a family favorite because of great snow conditions and easy access to the mountain.  Having one base area makes it convenient to drop off the little ones in the Children’s Center, pick-up rental equipment, sign up for ski school and get on the slopes in a timely manner.  Lift lines are a rarity and you will regularly find ski runs to yourself.  

Looking for great powder, spectacular views, 1000+ acres of expert terrain, steeps, trees, cliffs, and bowls?  You found it with Monarch Mountain. Check out the 130 acres of hike-to terrain in Mirkwood Basin from the top of the Breezeway Lift.  Monarch Mountain Snowcat Tours offers some of the best Snowcat skiing in the state—guests enjoy skiing/riding in closely spaced trees, variable snow conditions and extremely steep slopes. 

At the base of Monarch Pass lies the sunny Arkansas River Valley, with everything you need to make your visit complete.  The towns of Salida, Poncha Springs, and Buena Vista have great restaurants, galleries, shops, and a variety of accommodations.  This winter come up and stay a few days and experience our mountain hospitality.

Welcome to Monarch, a real Colorado ski area!