WINTER ACTIVITIES

Winters In Buena Vista & Salida Are Unique

The valley floor typically does not hold snow, allowing for hiking, biking and fishing year-round.

Despite being at elevation, Chaffee County’s ‘banana belt’ valley sees unusually warm temperatures beautifully combined with abundance of snow fall in its higher elevations. Because of this combination of snow and sun, any imaginable outdoor activity is possible. This magical winter destination is a true Colorado secret, awaiting your adventures.

100% NATURAL SNOW

At Monarch Mountain, we don’t make artificial snow. We don’t have to; Monarch is nestled right up under the continental divide where storms march in from the west and deposit their bounty in abundance throughout the winter. So we’re blessed with an average of more than 350 inches of pure, powdery goodness each season.

Further, we consider ourselves stewards of our environment. Snowmaking can have a multitude of adverse effects on water quality and wild habitats. In the summer, when we fish and float on fresh snowmelt, we take comfort in the fact that we’ve done our best to protect and preserve that resource which we hold dear.

Monarch Mountain is a unique, family friendly ski area. Founded in 1939, this is one of Colorado’s longest running ski areas. The mountain is just 20 miles from Salida and 40 miles from Buena Vista, near the top of Monarch Pass.

BACKCOUNTRY TIPS

Winter weather can be unexpected and change quickly
Avalanches can strike even the most prepared winter recreationist. Check conditions with the Colorado Avalanche Information Center online to determine local mountain weather and safety risks: www.avalanche.state.co.us

THE TEN ESSENTIALS

1. Navigation (map, compass, GPS, extra batteries)

2. Insulation (Weather protection; rain pants/jacket, extra clothes, hat, gloves, large plastic bag, no cotton )

3. Illumination (two) headlamp, flashlight, extra batteries)

4. Personal Protection – sunscreen, first aid, medications, clear/dark glasses, bug repellent

5. Fire (waterproof matches, fire starter, saw, knife,)

6. Signaling Devices – cell phone w backup battery charger, mirror, whistle

7. Repair kit and tools (specific to the adventure and season)

8. Nutrition (extra food for 24 hour, high calorie, won’t freeze or spoil)

9. Hydration (extra water, means to filter or purification tablets)

10. Emergency shelter (reflective waterproof tarp, bivy sack, extra large leaf bag, cord)

Current CAIC Forcast Map

ADDITIONAL SNOW SAFETY YOU SHOULD TAKE ALONG

An avalanche transceiver, snow shovel and avalanche probe. These items are available to rent at some local outdoor equipment stores. Know how to use the equipment properly before your trip and seek out professional training if you need assistance.

DOWNLOAD THE COTREX APP

The Colorado Trail Explorer (COTREX) endeavors to map every trail in the state of Colorado in support of the Colorado the Beautiful Initiative. COTREX connects people, trails, and technology by coordinating the efforts of federal, state, county, and local agencies to create a comprehensive and authoritative repository of recreational trails for public use.

This project is led by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) and Department of Natural Resources, but is only made possible through partnerships with organizations at every level statewide. COTREX represents a seamless network of trails managed by over 225 land managers.