Monarch Pass
Although it is a high mountain pass, Monarch Pass is not above tree line. The Monarch Ski Resort maintains a chair lift that will take visitors up above 12,000 feet. The chair lift operates during the summer season and there is also a coffee shop/gift store. Flocks of crossbills and other mountain birds have been seen on and near the pass, and the campground can provide good birding also.
Restrictions: Hiking can be a hazardous activity; bring raingear and water, and avoid thunderstorms
County: Chaffee
Directions: Monarch Pass is at the crest of the Continental Divide on US 50 between Poncha Springs and Gunnison. To reach the Monarch Park Campground and Fishing Ponds, go west on US 50 from Poncha Springs. The campground is less than two miles from the summit, on CR 231, south of US 50.
Alternate Directions: Monarch Pass is at the crest of the Continental Divide on Highway 50 between Poncha Springs and Gunnison.
Habitat: Spruce-Fir Forest
Dates of Access: Open all year; campground early June-early September
Hours: Monarch Pass Gift Shop and Restaurant open from 8am - 5pm
Ownership: US Forest Service
Admission or Fees: Camping fee
Parking: Paved lot
Lodging: Camping
Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Limited
Delorme: 59 D7
ROC: 102 A3
Latitude: 38.496288
Longitude: -106.325383
Visit the Website for Monarch Pass »
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L2913126