SKIING
If you’re dreaming of powder days, ridge lines, and short lift lines, skiing near Salida delivers the goods. Just 25 minutes from A-Lodge, Monarch Mountain is one of Colorado’s last true hidden-gem ski areas—uncrowded, affordable, and blessed with over 350 inches of snowfall each season.
Monarch’s laid-back vibe, playful terrain, and consistent conditions make it a favorite among locals and adventurous travelers alike. From mellow groomers to tree runs and hike-to bowls, it’s got something for everyone without the traffic, chaos, or corporate sprawl of the mega-resorts. You’ll find deep stashes days after a storm and a summit elevation of 11,960 feet that keeps the snow light and dry.
Staying at A-Lodge Salida makes ski days easy. Our cozy cabins and full-hookup RV sites let you wake up slow and warm, sip coffee under the peaks, and still hit first chair with time to spare. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or posting up for the season, we’ve got the gear storage, warm showers, and post-ski recovery zones you need.
And it doesn’t stop at the resort—Monarch Pass is a launching pad for epic backcountry tours, snowshoeing, and even fat biking. If you’re new to the area or looking for fresh lines, our staff can connect you with guides or point you toward safe terrain for self-supported missions.
Back at the lodge, swap stories around the fire pit, dry out your gloves, and plan the next big day. This is skiing the way it was meant to be—uncomplicated, uncrowded, and unforgettable.
The snow is falling. The lifts are spinning. The mountains are calling. Welcome to winter at A-Lodge Salida.
Monarch Mountain Stats
- Monarch is all about deep snow, friendly vibes, and no lift lines.
- Monarch has been serving up authentic Colorado skiing since 1939—one of the oldest ski areas in the state
- The mountain receives an average of 350+ inches of natural snowfall every year—100% natural snow, no snowmaking required!
- The base elevation is a high-altitude 10,790 feet, with a summit elevation of 11,960 feet.
- Monarch offers 800 acres of skiable terrain, with everything from mellow cruisers to advanced hike-to terrain in Mirkwood Basin.
- The most difficult terrain? Mirkwood Bowl—steep, gladed, and hike-to only.
- Monarch is just 21 miles west of Salida, making A-Lodge your ideal ski basecamp.
- The resort features 7 lifts, including the Garfield high-speed quad.
- Monarch also offers cat skiing on over 1,600 acres of expert-only backcountry terrain through Monarch Cat Skiing.
- For cross-country lovers, nearby Monarch Park and Old Monarch Pass Road are prime spots for nordic skiing and snowshoeing.
- Whether you’re carving groomers, chasing powder, or earning your turns in the backcountry, Monarch delivers a classic Colorado ski experience—without the crowds or the pretense.
Monarch Mountain Ski Lodging
