Monarch / Garfield, Colorado Mountain Activities & Recreation

Monarch and snow are synonymous. Monarch Mountain gets an average of 350 inches of snowfall in a season, and the resort is one of the few who do not make snow. They don't need to. This is a winter wonderland treasured by locals to Colorado, the place you absolutely have to ride at least once in a season. Those lucky enough to live here are adamant about passes and snow days when November comes around.

But skiing and snowboarding are not all that mother nature holds in store. Yes, winter sports are big here. Snowshoeing, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, all very popular. What happens when the snows melt, and the mountain dons green instead of white? The summer comes out to play.

Monarch Mountain becomes a playground for hikers, bikers and those out to experience some wildlife. A short drive from Buena Vista and Salida, you suddenly have a world of summer recreation at your fingertips. Horseback riding, golf at altitude which is not for the faint of heart, hot springs and whitewater rafting all within a few minutes of Monarch and Garfield.

FourteenerNet's recreation listings will help you plan your next trip to Garfield and Monarch; and when you're ready to save it all, do it in our free Vacation Planner and never lose that piece of paper with the crucial number on it again.