And it’s a throwback, ski bum paradise.
Stonehouse Pictures
I pulled into the parking lot atMonarch Mountainon a cold, windy morning.
Snow had arrived the night before, and another storm was on its way.
A group of skiers on Monarch Mountain.Credit:Stonehouse Pictures
There’s zero snowmaking a rarity in Colorado.Despite the cold and wind, the parking lot energy was high.
This is what I was really here for a reminder ofwhat skiing is all about.
“Those who do not want the pretentious attitudes that come with other resorts.”
Skilift at Monarch Mountain.Stonehouse Pictures
Here’s what you oughta know to experience it in all its glory.
When to Go
Monarch Mountain typically opens in late November and closes in early April.
Since it relies on natural snowfall, its opening dates and coverage tend to vary from season to season.
Exterior of Surf Hotel.Courtesy of Surf Hotel
If you want to come when there is near-guaranteed good snow, come in February and March.
Saturday is typically the most expensive day to ski.
Public spaces include hot tubs and a morning coffee bar with a grab-and-go breakfast.
Main street of a town near Monarch Mountain.krblokhin/Getty Images
TheAmigo Motor Lodgeis located in Salida,the closest well-sized town to Monarch.
From the Manhattan, Monarch is around 30 minutes by car.
An overnight stay includes two days of soaking, which provides the perfect end to a ski day.
Bar of Wood’s High Mountian Distillery.Courtesy of Wood’s High Mountian Distillery
TheSurf Hotelis situated right along the river in Buena Vista’s South Main neighborhood.
It has a great restaurant and a year-round calendar of live music.
Theyre known for their nachos and bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers.
A skier on Monarch Mountain.Stonehouse Pictures
The Gunbarrel Grill:For the best bang for your buck, head toThe Gunbarrel Grillin Monarchs main lodge.
The cafeteria-style eatery has a little something for everyone, from pizza and hamburgers to soups and salads.
Princeton have to offer."
A skier on Monarch Mountain.Stonehouse Pictures
One of Stroud’s closest recommendations isElevation Beer Companyin Poncha Springs (25 minutes from Monarch).
They have up to 16 brews on tap and to-go beers.
Their whiskey, gin, and vodka are regionally loved and are served in a unique 100-year-old building.
The distillery also offers tours with product samples.
The tubing hill is located right at the base of the ski area and has four tubing lanes.
Tubing sessions are one hour long and available every 15 minutes.
Walk-ins are welcome, but you could also book online in advance.
Cat Skiing:Monarch Mountain has an out-of-bounds acreage that is double what they have in-bounds.
Cat skiing at Monarch is only for expert skiers and riders.
Ticket prices currently start at $69.
These “Partner Resort Passes” must be purchased or picked up at the Monarch ticket window.
Don’t forget to bring along your partner’s pass as proof.
For the best pricing, reserve your rentals by 11 p.m. the night before your arrival.
The Rental Center opens daily at 8 a.m. “Experience the winter, not the cold, is our motto.”
Around 36 percent of the ski area is single-black terrain, while 27 percent are blue-rated runs.
The backside Mirkwood area also offers hike-to skiing.
Lessons & Clinics:When it comes to teaching people to ski, Monarch shines.
Programs range from never-ever instruction to competition training.
Our Snow Sports professionals are simply the best in the business.
We pride ourselves on being coaches, not instructors.
Its best tobook group lessons onlineat least two days before your arrival.
Childcare:Monarch also offers childcare onhigh-demand weekendsfor children ages 3 to 6.
Childcare can also include a 90-minute group or private lesson.
