Over the last few seasons, we have seen a significant increase in uphill travel here at the ski area. For many, it is more about the up than the down!

With this in mind, we have made some updates to our uphill policy this year. To start with, it will be an Uphill Pass instead of an Uphill Access paper ticket. This will be printed on pass stock and will include your photo. Uphill users will need to stop by the Season Pass Desk here at the base lodge or visit the Outpost in Salida to pick up their Uphill Pass. EVERYONE wishing to skin uphill at Monarch (during operating hours or outside of operating hours) MUST have an uphill pass AND sign a waiver. This includes ALL Season Pass holders. This is a separate product from a season pass.

This pass should be placed on your ski pants or your backpack so that it is easily visible to ski patrol. If your pass is not visible, you will be asked to show it.

With an increase in managing this program and a review of what others in the industry are doing, the cost of an Uphill Pass will be $59 for non-season pass holders. For season pass holders, there will be no additional fee. The uphill pass is valid for the entire 2021-22 winter season (with the exception of a few administrative closures).

Despite the price increase (for the first time in five years), this still is a great product…Plowed lots with designated early morning parking. Groomed trails. Ski Patrol avalanche mitigation and response during operating hours. Food and beverage options in a heated lodge with flush toilets. This is a much easier experience than the backcountry with an abundance of amenities. For those who don’t want to pay for skinning up, there are some really nice glades that were thinned this summer across the highway on Monarch Ridge.

For more info on our uphill access policy, please visit our website.