Monarch wouldn’t be where it is today, without the dedication and hard work of those who came before us.  One of the most pivotal groups of people that contributed to our success is the Berry family.

Ray and Josephine Berry moved to Salida in the 1940’s and purchased the ski area lease from the City in 1955 for one hundred dollars.  At the time, the ski area consisted of a couple of rope tows and just a few trails.  Their three sons William, Gerald and Daniel, also later contributed to Monarch’s growth at a pivotal time in our history.

The family purchased a T-bar surface lift from the defunct Tenderfoot Ski Area outside of Cripple Creek in 1957.  This lift shuttled guests uphill adjacent to where the current Tumbelina lift unloads.  For the 1960-61 ski season, the Berry family worked to install the first aerial chairlift at Monarch.  The lift was constructed by Gus Irwin from Texas, and was made from used oil derrick parts and some components from the Hall Ski Lift Company.  This original lift occupied the current Garfield lift alignment. The Berry family also worked to build a new base lodge in the 60’s to offer a space for guests to purchase food and beverages while providing an indoor spot to comfortably escape the elements.  An “A Frame” building was also constructed to host the Ski Patrol and Ski School employees.

The Berry family operated the ski area until 1967 and will always be remembered in playing a critical role in our history.  In recognition of their diligent work in making Monarch a viable ski operation, we are renaming the Lower No Name trail in their honor with “Berry’s”.  Additionally, we are dropping the letter “e” from “Little Joe”, and returning to “Little Jo”, as it was originally named on the trail map in recognition of Josephine Berry.  On a final note, also want to share with you that the “Romp” ski trail was originally known as “Ray’s Romp”.

So, as you “Romp” your way down these trails at Monarch this season, be sure to think of this important family in our history.  Thank you Berry family!