Monarch Mountain in Colorado may be best known for its winter sports, but if you are visiting in other seasons, you’ll still find plenty of awesome things to do. Monarch Mountain in summer, fall, winter AND spring will take your breath away—from the scenic views to the altitude to the heart-pounding adventures!
Ideas for your adventure bucket list when visiting Colorado’s must-see Monarch Mountain:
- Hiking on Monarch Mountain
- Ride the Monarch Crest Scenic Tramway
- Mountain biking the Mountain Crest Trail
- River rafting
- Horseback riding
- Enjoying scenic drives
- Snowmobiling
- Soaking in hot springs after an adventure-filled day
Where is Monarch Mountain?
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If you are driving the Monarch Pass outside of Salida, Colorado, Monarch Mountain and the Monarch Crest Scenic Tramway are located near the top of the Pass on US Hwy 50.
- 154 miles (247.8 km) southwest of Denver
- 123 miles ( 198 km) west of Colorado Springs
- 20 miles (32) west of Salida
Epic Adventures on Monarch Mountain in the Summer
Chris and I have visited Monarch Mountain a number of times this past year as we have explored the amazing color in the fall, hiked in the summer, and enjoyed the spring refresh of colors on the mountain. It has become our adventure playground. Whatever season you choose, you will find plenty to keep you busy.
1. Explore the Monarch Crest Tourist Shop
Hey, if you are driving along Monarch Pass, don’t just drive by the Monarch Crest Scenic Tramway and Tourist Shop. The Tourist Shop not only features your typical slogan t-shirts and hoodies, but also art from local artisans, gear for hiking and biking, a cafe, restrooms, and a small grocery area if you forgot to pack your favorite snack. If you love freshly made fudge, well, you’re in luck!
2. Ride the Monarch Crest Scenic Tramway
It was a pretty windy day when Chris and I rode the Monarch Crest Scenic Tramway. Be sure to bring something warm to wear; it is always windier and chillier on the mountain at the top of the tram.
This tram is the oldest working tramway in Colorado; once you arrive at the top, you’ll marvel at the spectacular views from the Continental Divide Trail. What can you do besides enjoy the views? How about some high-altitude hiking, mountain biking, or motorbiking!
>> Related: The Estes Park Tramway: Discover a Unique Adventure in Estes Park, CO
3. Enjoy Burgers at the Shredder’s Grill
The Shredder’s Grill food truck is conveniently located next to the Monarch Crest Tourist Shop. So, if you are coming down the mountain on the Monarch Crest Scenic Tramway, finishing a hike, or rolling in on your mountain bike, be sure to stop. Don’t forget to take a pic in the big adirondack chair too.
Chris enjoyed the jalapeno jelly and peanut butter burger with fresh strawberries and the combination was perfect. I had a black bean burger with caramelized onions. Delish.
4. Try Hiking on Monarch Mountain
You could definitely climb up the mountain on the road from the base of the tram and then continue on the Continental Divide Trail on the section known as the Monarch Crest Trail, or you could enjoy the scenic tram ride first and then explore once you reach the top.
Hiking is one of the favorite things that Chris and I enjoy doing together. You can find a variety of hikes near Salida and Monarch Mountain for different skill levels, elevations, and distances. If you are hiking be sure to:
- Plan Ahead and Prepare – Download maps in advance
- Stick to the Trails
- Leave No Trace – Pack out your trash
- Leave What You Find – Don’t pick the flowers!
- Be Careful with Fire
- Prevent Wildfires – Be sure fires are allowed and never leave a fire unattended. Fully extinguish fires before leaving an area.
- Respect Wildlife
- Be Friendly
5. Explore the Continental Divide Trail on a Motorbike
Chris and I haven’t encountered motorbike riders on any other trails that we have hiked in Colorado. This would definitely be a fun way to explore if hikers, mountain bikers, and motorbike riders each give the other space on the trail.
6. Take Instagram Worthy Photos
Ever captured a picture so stunning that your brain craves adventure every time you see it? Welcome to Colorado’s epic mountains where you’ll be searching for words that equal the views of rugged peaks, colorful trams, brilliant fall color, and stunning sunsets.
Instagram Captions
Transport your followers into the heart of Colorado—no passport required!
If you don’t find something you like here, check out 105 Inspiring Hiking and Mountain Quotes for Instagram!
- When the sun is shining I can do anything; no mountain is too high, no trouble too difficult to overcome. ~Wilma Rudolph
- We don’t stop hiking because we grow old—we grow old because we stop hiking. ~Finis Mitchell
- When you’re tired, focus on the view.
- The summit is what drives us, but the climb itself is what matters. ~Conrad Anker
- Somewhere between the bottom of the climb and the summit is the answer to the mystery why we climb. ~Greg Child
- There is always an adventure waiting in the woods. ~Katelyn S. Bolds
- Beyond the mountains, more mountains. ~Haitian proverb
- There’s no glory in climbing a mountain if all you want to do is to get to the top. It’s experiencing the climb itself—in all its moments of revelation, heartbreak, and fatigue—that has to be the goal. ~Karyn Kusama
- I’d rather be hiking in the rain than sitting inside at a desk on a sunny day.
- Always say yes to new adventures.
- Getting to the top is optional. Getting down is mandatory. ~Ed Viesturs
- You must go on adventures to find out where you truly belong. ~Sue Fitzmaurice
7. Fish
If you love getting back to nature with a little fishing, the Monarch Mountain and Salida, Colorado area has you covered. Fishing enthusiasts would agree that fishing helps to reduce stress and enhances your appreciation of nature. “Time spent in nature is the best medicine.” Outside magazine
8. Try Mountain Biking the Monarch Crest Trail
If you are searching for one of the best high altitude mountain bike rides in the world, the epic 32-mile point-to-point Monarch Crest Trail on a section of the Continental Divide Trail is simply spectacular. Note * There is 3,000 feet of elevation gain along the way as you are mountain biking the Monarch Crest Trail.
If road biking is more your speed, nearby Salida and Buena Vista are well known for their biking trails—sometimes right out your front door. Whatever the season, it’s biking time.
9. River Raft the Nearby Arkansas River
Combine intense focus and paddling for the adventure of a lifetime. Whether you are looking for a gentle beginner rafting adventure through Class I & II white water or a more advanced Class IV technical experience, you can find some of the best white water rafting in the United States along the Arkansas River in the adventure wonderland of Colorado.
10. Enjoy a Scenic Drive
Drive Monarch Pass in the fall to capture some amazing color. You can expect the best fall color from the middle of September to early October. Explore these scenic byways:
- Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway
- Independence Pass
- Cottonwood Pass
- Marshall Pass
- Monarch Pass
- Trout Creek Pass
If you have never done any mountain driving before, or if you simply haven’t been on mountain roads recently, the fact is that traveling the narrow, curvy roads of mountain passes can be a challenge for some drivers—especially first-time mountain drivers. Be mountain aware.
11. Soak in Nearby Hot Springs
Many of the natural hot springs in Colorado require a hike or a backcountry drive…different kinds of outdoor adventures. Even public hot springs in the heart of a charming mountain town offer relaxing soaks and meditative moments.
- Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center
- Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort
- Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn & Spa
- Aqua Hot Springs
- Valley View Hot Springs
- Antero Hot Springs & Cabins
12. Camp
I have a love hate relationship with camping. I love the mountains. I hate sleeping in the mountains. Thus, you will find me at the nearest hotel! If this is you too, click the link below to find accommodations on Booking.com!
Check availability for hotels near Monarch Mountain with Booking.com
If you want to find tent and RV campgrounds in Salida or throughout the United States, you might want to try this Apple app. As I am NOT a camper, I haven’t tried The Dyrt, but there are over 92,000 ratings on the app store.
13. Hike a 14-er
Did you know that Chaffee County, where Monarch Mountain is located, has the highest concentration of peaks over 14,000 feet high in Colorado? 58 to be exact. Fifteen of those peaks are hikes near Salida.
I have never really wanted to hike a 14-er, but plenty of people do. It takes a little more prep than a hike, so be sure you are aware of the weather conditions, the physical requirements, and come prepared.
14. Try Horseback Riding
To be fair, our family has never ridden horses in the park, but we see evidence that horses have been on the hiking trails all of the time.
15. Explore a Ghost Town
The St. Elmo ghost town in Chalk Creek Canyon is a little more than hour from the Monarch Mountain Pass. It is one of the coolest things to do in the area and is the most accessible and best preserved ghost town in the West.
There are 43 buildings that still remain today: a saloon, courthouse and jail, mercantile, and private homes. St. Elmo is accessible year round, though the General Store which still serves customers is only open in the summer.
16. Book a Jeep or ATV Adventure
Ready for a little bit of exhilaration and adventure as you get to know Monarch Mountain in the summer? One of the epic things to do is book a Jeep or ATV Adventure. The flat and rocky terrain offers trails and roads for riders of many skill levels.
17. Enjoy a Picnic Lunch
Be sure to pack a picnic lunch for exploring the adventure playground around Monarch Mountain. Among all of the places that we love to explore in the great state of Colorado, the Sawatch Mountains has captured our hearts recently (we are excited to be moving closer)! Whether you are riding the Monarch Crest Scenic Tramway to find a picnic spot at the top of the mountain or stopping at a roadside vista, there are plenty of places to enjoy a picnic lunch.
Day Trips from Monarch Mountain
18. Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs
You are in for a treat when you set out to explore Colorado Springs. If you are looking for unique things to see in Colorado, the Garden of the Gods in “the Springs” has some of most amazing scenery and land formations. And your visit to the park is totally FREE! It is one of the gems of Colorado that you pretty much need to see to believe.
Colorado Springs is about one hour away from Denver International Airport.
19. Great Sand Dunes National Park
Walking through the sand and climbing the dunes at the Great Sand Dunes National Park WILL BE your daily workout; if you and your kids are planning on sledding, you’ll get more exercise hiking back up the dunes after your race down on your sled.
TIP * Be sure to wear good shoes and socks. You may fill your socks and shoes with sand as you walk, but that is preferable to burning your feet on the sand if you wear flip flops or open toed shoes. The sand can reach temperatures as hot as 150°.
If you are lucky enough to visit the dunes when the Medano Creek is running, it is perfect for wading through and splashing in. The creek rarely gets deeper than 2 inches, with occasional surges up to 4 inches.
Be sure to wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Bring water! There is no shade once you are on the dunes.
20. Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park is located in the southwestern corner of Colorado and is one of the most unique things to see in Colorado. It is also one of the first designated UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Sites in ALL of the world and features the cliff dwellings and archeological heritage of the Ancestral Puebloan people (600 to 1300 CE).
As you visit the park, you might find yourself wondering how the Puebloan people climbed down to their homes using small footholds and ladders? What about small children? Did these homes keep intruders out? Be sure to make reservations for one of the Mesa Verde tours to experience an up close and personal experience for yourself.
>> Read More: 10 Epic Mesa Verde Tours on a National Park Road Trip in Colorado
21. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Discover some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rock formations, and craggiest spires at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in Colorado. The canyon earned its name because parts of the canyon receive only 33 minutes of sunlight each day: the canyons are deep, sheer, narrow and dark. The Gunnison River runs through the park.
You can enter the park via two primary entrances: the south rim entrance located outside of Montrose, CO or the north rim entrance (closed in the winter).
22. Colorado Mountain Lavender Farm
Chris and I stopped at the Colorado Mountain Lavender Farm outside Cotopaxi, CO. What can you do at the farm?
- Enjoy the smell of lavender as you tour the fields
- Shop for lavender body butter, beard oil, body soap, candles, herbs, skin spritz, lavender balsamic vinegar and more!
- Visit in August for their U-Pick event
- Stay the night for a perfect couple’s getaway
- Enjoy the “field to fork” lunch menu from the farm kitchen.
You’ll find the farm in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range.
23. Royal Gorge
Royal Gorge, approximately 58 miles (93.3 km) outside of Salida (which is about 20 minutes from Monarch Mountain), is an outdoor playground if you love to zipline, raft, bungee jump, or take a helicopter tour. You will need to make reservations in advance.
Things to do on Monarch Mountain in the Fall and Winter
24. Marvel at the Fall Colors
If you happen to hit the peak fall color at just the right time, you will love the beauty of the area. These are the scenic byways that are perfect for a little leaf peeping:
- Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway
- Independence Pass
- Cottonwood Pass
- Marshall Pass
- Monarch Pass
- Trout Creek Pass
25. Buy a Monarch Ski Pass and Hit the Slopes
The ski season at Monarch is generally from November to April, but Colorado is known for snow storms in May and June as well. If you want to get away from the crowds at Colorado’s mega ski resorts (Breckenridge, Vail, Aspen), check out Monarch Mountain as your perfect weekend getaway.
Monarch features skiing, long trails for intermediate skiers, and wide open alpine bowls.
26. Book a Snowmobiling Tour
How about a snowmobiling adventure? During the winter months, Monarch Mountain is busy with snowmobiling, dog sledding and cross country skiing.
27. Snow Shoe
Is snowshoeing on your bucket list? Whether you have your own snowshoes or rent a pair, be prepared for some amazing winter scenery within the winter wonderland of Monarch Mountain.
If you are going to venture out on snowshoes, just remember that the elevation in Colorado is much higher than many tourists are accustomed to and be prepared with the appropriate winter hiking gear and safety equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail?
The Continental Divide Trail stretches 3,100 miles (4,990 km) across the United States between the borders of Mexico and Canada, making twists and turns along the mountainous landscape to the sandy deserts and the grassy plains.
Can you buy a one way ticket on the Monarch Crest Scenic Tramway?
No. You will be required to buy a round trip ticket on the tram, however, you can still hike up to the top of the crest and then take the tram down, or take the tram up and hike down.
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Final Thoughts on 27 Epic Adventures on Monarch Mountain, Colorado—Including Skiing
One of the advantages to living in Colorado is having so many amazing opportunities so close to home. Monarch Mountain has a little something for everyone if you enjoy living life on the adventurous side.
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I am planning a trip to Colorado for this November and am going to bookmark this. The horseback riding looks magical. Thanks for sharing this informative post!
Absolutely stunning. I would love to hike and have a picnic at Monarch Mountain. This whole area looks perfect for lovers of nature.
Definitely a place with outdoor activities for everyone.
I also have a love hate relationship with camping lol. I love the outdoors but I love sleeping on a mattress!
You two are so adventurous! I love to see your photos hiking, skiing, water rafting, riding bikes, or whatever it is you’ve done lately! It seems like this place really has something for everyone.
Monarch Mountain sounds like such a perfect destination for families looking for a cozy, welcoming experience in Colorado! I especially love the sound of the smaller crowds and the outdoor adventures. The idea of escaping the hustle of larger resorts while still enjoying some amazing runs is a huge plus. Thanks for sharing such great tips on where to stay and eat—it really makes planning a trip here so much easier!
All these options seem like fun. I’m shocked that their are so many hot springs in the area. Thank for sharing!
I too love the mountains but don’t want to sleep in the mountains, so I would be in a hotel also. I would enjoy the Scenic Tramway. Monarch Mountain looks spectacular.
We just had our first trip to CO this summer and loved it. Denver, CO Springs, Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, just a few things. It was just a taste for more.
Mesa Verde National Park has intrigued me for so long and I really want to visit it. But there are so many other amazing things to do. I love the idea of going horse riding and then heading to a nice relaxing spa.
It looks like dream mountain destination. Thanks for sharing!
We’ve stopped a number of times at Monarch for skiing on the way down to Crested Butte, but haven’t tried hiking or mountain biking there in summer. We’ll have to plan this for next year.
We were in Colorado last summer and loved our time in Colorado Springs, especially the Air Force Academy. Your article makes me want to go back and check out Monarch Mountain – I am saving your link for planning my next trip!!!
Colorado is so beautiful! I only drove through this state and didn’t really stop but l am dreaming to visit and explore one day!
Haven’t been to Colorado yet but every time I read about it I am more and more convinced I need to go! This was such an informative read, thank you.
Wow there really is so much to do!! Great guide 🙂
Wow, so many incredible things to do.
I am off to Colorado in February, this will be my first time so it will be winter and for skiing really enjoyed your blog post, thanks for sharing 😉