Mountain Safety

SKIER + RIDER RESPONSIBILITY

At Monarch Mountain, the safety of our guests and employees is our top priority. Please read through the following information carefully. Visit the Guest Service Desk located in the main lodge or call 719.530.5000 if you have any questions.

  • Safety Know the Code
    Safety
    Know the Code
    Safety
  • PatrolYour First Response
    Patrol
    Your First Response
    Safety
  • Policies Our Way – Our Rules
    Policies
    Our Way – Our Rules
    Safety
  • Equipment What’s Allowed
    Equipment
    What’s Allowed
    Safety
Safety
Know the Code
Categories :
Safety
Patrol
Your First Response
Policies
Our Way – Our Rules
Categories :
Safety
Equipment
What’s Allowed
Categories :
Safety

safety tips

HYDRATION

Hydrate! Be sure to drink plenty of water. You are more active than you may realize and dehydrate quicker at higher altitudes. Drinking water is the best way to avoid altitude sickness, which can affect anyone at any age. This means drink water before you are thirsty. Limit the intake of caffeine and alcohol on your trip. A little goes a long way up here. Bring a water bottle so you can fill up at one of our hydration stations throughout the lodge.

SUN PROTECTION

UV rays are intense at high altitude, especially when reflecting off snow. Be sure to wear sunscreen, even on a cloudy day, and always wear eye protection for the same reason. The appropriate goggles or sunglasses will protect your eyes and improve your line of sight.

EQUIPMENT

Make sure you are fitted for the right size boots before you get on the mountain. It'll make or break your day. Don't have boots? We have all the modern, high-end rental equipment you need to have a great day.

OUTERWEAR

You'll be happier if you are dry. Waterproof ski pants and jackets are highly recommended. Forgot yours? Top-of-the-line pant and jacket rentals are available for children and adults at Elation Sports in the Rental + Lesson Center. Wear waterproof gloves to keep your hands dry, and we highly recommend wearing a helmet. 60% of heat-loss is through the head. A helmet will keep you warmer and safer. If you need one, we rent those too.

BASE LAYERS

Remember, weather conditions can change throughout the day. You'll want to dress in layers. This will allow you to add or remove layers as the conditions change. Avoid cotton. It does not insulate well when it gets wet. It will just make you colder. Opt for wool and synthetics, especially for base layers and socks. They will keep you warm and dry despite wet conditions.

HIGH ALTITUDE

If you are experiencing headache, dizziness, nausea, tiredness and/or shortness of breath it may be due to the high altitude. Take it easy and hydrate. It may be necessary for you to go to a lower elevation. The elevation at Monarch's base area is 10,800'; Salida is at 7,000'. If going lower does not help, seek medical attention.

THE COLD

With temperatures below freezing, be well prepared and stay warm. Frostnip or frostbite can occur, especially to fingers, nose, ears and toes, so don't forget about these parts of your body. 30% of heat loss is from the head, so wear a hat. For cold related injuries, seek medical attention.

BE AWARE OF:

  • Uneven, icy and slick surfaces. Walk and ride with caution.

  • Suffocating snow, avalanches and tree wells along with decreased visibility and orientation during snow storms - Ride with a partner. Keep track of friends and family.

  • High altitude related illness and cold injuries - If symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately.

  • Increased UV Exposure - Use Sunscreen and Eye protection.

Monarch Mountain is an equal opportunity provider and operates under a special use permit with the Pike San Isabel National Forest.
Anyone who needs assistance with accessing the content on this website please call 719.530.5000.