Many activities can be done here year round because of the mild winters and little snowfall in Salida, 18 miles east of the Lodge. Even though Monarch Pass averages over 350” of snow a year, there is usually no snow in Salida known as the banana belt of Colorado and averages over 300 days of sunshine a year. The most popular Winter Activities are:
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Downhill Ski at Monarch Mountain Ski & Snowboard Area. It is often one of the least crowded ski areas in Colorado and often has some of the best snow in the state. It is just 3 miles west of us near the top of the Continental Divide. They have an excellent ski school and child care center. We have either ski & stay packages or discount lift tickets. Snow skiing here is incredible!
Ski Areas & Ski Shops
Monarch Mountain Ski Area - 3miles
Crested Butte Mountain Ski Area - 76 miles
Monarch Snowmobile Tours & Rentals - walking distance from the Lodge
Wilderness Ski Shop - Located at the Lodge!
Mt. Shavano Ski Shop & Snowboard Shop - Snowshoe & Cross-Country Ski Rental - 7 miles
Mountain Sports Haus Ski Shop - 12 miles Poncha Springs, CO
Cross-country ski and snowshoe over Old Monarch Pass. Just 4 miles west and after a gradual slope, stand on top of the Continental Divide and look into the Gunnison Valley. Also, into Monarch Park, just 2.5 miles from the lodge.
Snowmobile along abandoned railroad beds. Take a guided tour or go out on your own. Incredible scenery. Monarch Tours is just across the street - walking distance to the lodge. 719-539-2572
Fly-fish or spin-cast for Browns on the Arkansas River or in nearby lakes. Fishing is open all year. There are even hatches in the winter. More info .
Downtown Salida, is known for its great Art Galleries, Antique Shops and unique Jewelry Boutiques and excellent restaurants. The KayakWhitewater Park , River Walk, local community theater, the Steam Plant and Bongo Billy’s Salida Café with live entertainment are all located on the banks of the Arkansas River.
Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center just 18 miles from the lodge. The water is totally odorless, hot and piped in from Poncha Springs. Lots of activities for all ages.
Joyful Journey Hot Springs – Soak in outdoor pools protected by windscreens, great views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, very clean. Discounts.
Mount Princeton Hot Springs - Soak in over 30 all natural creekside pools; 3 swimming ponds; and 300 foot water slide.
22720 West US Hwy 50, Monarch, CO | 800-332-3668 | 719-539-2581