monarch pass

rosalynd2014

After a full day we decided to drive up to the pass and get some pictures. It was fairly deserted, but we did get the pictures. Summer would be a better time to go here for more sightseeing and hiking.

taleahe

There are some very Beautiful areas around the pass, and Gunnison. Very laid back adventure. It is a little bit furtherto go to Colorado Springs, but I do not like I-70 and I would recommend this route anytime to travelers. It is not that much more time in real time and the drive it much more Beautiful.

DianeN158

We have traveled over Monarch pass many times heading to Gunnison and Crested Butte, cross country skiing on the old trail and even mountain biking on the Monarch trail on the south side of the freeway all the way back to Salida. It starts near the top of the pass which looks like an old ski resort, and goes over the mountains on I believe the highest trail in the country. It is beautiful with amazing views. I have also seen a lot of people snow mobiling. There is so much to do and see as you traverse the high elevations feeling like you are on top of the world! I think the pass is wonderful for both summer and winter, but make sure you are prepared for the weather either way. Thunderstorms in the summer and snow in the winter could you leave you stranded in a pinch.

CW894

11,312 ft, Continental Divide, pine trees, snow, clear blue skies...beautiful. Gift shop a nice stop for souvenirs with helpful, friendly staff.

ATexasNative

We crossed Monarch Pass on 9-15-14 traveling west from Salida. I was rather surprised to discover we had climbed to 11,312 feet! I did not notice if there were any places to pull over and there really was no scenic view that I recall. I do know, however, that the fall color was beautiful.

Icarus81

Beautiful views from the top, take a Gandola ride (optional) to the top and there is a 10$ fees but its worth it for the views.

aerofaze

In terms of passing opportunities and ease of access (free, a main highway), this is one of the better Colorado passes out there. Not sure how I could really rate this anything other than 5* as it serves its purpose with a highly scenic and interesting highway.I wouldn't be able to count the number of times I've been over Monarch Pass, both in a car and on a motorcycle. It's all paved and the speed limit is reasonable. We've made many a stop at the top for the ice cream, snacks, and restrooms, and to take pictures of our bikes with the mountains on the east side. For as many times as I've stopped up there, though, I haven't done the Gondola ride.Open year-round. It's the only way to get to Monarch Ski Area. Some parts are more like a shelf road, especially if you're going eastbound. In a snowstorm or white-out conditions, it can get pretty hairy.

thebigdogal

Monarch Pass is a good place for a break when traveling the 50. The gift store has food, gifts, and nice animal display inside, and clean bathroom. If you have some time take the lift ride ($$) up and get some great photos.

290billc

Stop, look around and see the beauty at this 11K+ elevation. No purchase neccessary to look although there are attractions here to pay for like the Gondola ride whic seems worth it so plan to take an extra 30 min. for the ride to the real top of the mountain where one can see for 150 miles.

blueskytravels

I have had many harrowing trips over Monarch Pass in the winter, but in the summer it is easy to drive and beautiful. This was the first trip that I made time for the tram ride to the top. It was definitely worth it and a fun, but fairly quick activity for anyone traveling with kids. The trams are fully closed in with a locked door- no chance of anyone falling out or getting hurt. The views at the top are spectacular and, yes, there were still a few spots of snow in July.

Laning

Convenient for a leg stretch break on Rt.50 but take just a little time to ride the tram to the top. $10 adult, $5 for under 12. Kids will love the tram ride and the view from the top is really worth it. Bring your camera. Well stocked gift shop with a welcome snack bar to fuel up your stomach for the rest of the drive. 10yr old granddaughter loved the little bit of snow up top in mid July.

SteveG471

Can't say much more than the title says. If you're traveling in winter, be careful. Many spots on the pass don't have guard rails and the road can become quite snowy and icy.

KimW771

Drove up at night to view the full moon...since we were only 6 miles away it didn't take long, we were so tired from our hike up Mt. Shavano it was kind of anti climactic!

OldCowboy038

We go there often on our way to other vistas in Western Colorado. Living only about 65 miles away it is our most often route to western Colorado.

AnnArborMiBob

There is a scenic tramway at the summit of this pass on U.S. 50, and a store that has some interesting mountain merchandise along with a lot of standard touristy stuff (and restrooms; that's great in a state whose major roads are notoriously lacking in them). However, if you are looking for mountain scenery, this is not the best place for it -- don't make a special trip to see this spot. The views on the west side of the pass are better than on the east.