Downhill Skiing

Monarch Mountain. A small, independently owned ski resort that tops out on the Continental Divide, Monarch Mountain is a family-friendly place with moderate pricing and discounts for advanced online purchases. The resort also offers 1,635 acres of snowcat skiing on steep runs off the divide, plus the 130 acres of hike-to skiing on extreme terrain in Mirkwood Basin. Facilities: 58 trails; 800 acres; 1,162-foot vertical drop; 7 lifts. 22720 U.S. 50, Salida, Colorado, 81227. 719/530–5000; 888/996–7669; www.skimonarch.com. Lift ticket $99. Mid-Nov.–mid-Apr., daily 9–4.