Monarch Mountain Altitude: Avoid Altitude Sickness at Monarch Mountain Ski Resort
Monarch Mountain is a beautiful Colorado ski resort located in the mountains just north of the Continental Divide Pass. The ski area’s base elevation is 10,790 feet (3,290 meters), and the summit elevation is 11,960 feet (3,650 meters). With its high elevation, visitors to the resort may experience altitude sickness. However, there are ways to prevent and treat altitude sickness when visiting Monarch Mountain.
Monarch Mountain altitude
Monarch Mountain has a base area elevation of 10,790 feet (3,290 meters) and a summit elevation of 11,960 feet (3,650 meters).
What is Monarch Mountain’s vertical drop?
Monarch Mountain has a vertical drop of 1,162 feet (354 meters).
Should I worry about altitude sickness in Colorado?
Altitude sickness is a potential concern for anyone traveling to high elevations, especially those who live at lower elevations. Colorado has many ski resorts that are located at high elevations, and visitors to these resorts may be at risk of altitude sickness. However, the good news is that you can take steps to prevent altitude sickness, such as drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and taking it easy for the first day or two after arrival. Additionally, some ski resorts offer oxygen rentals and other amenities to help combat altitude sickness. So while altitude sickness is something to be aware of in Colorado’s high-elevation ski resorts, with proper preparation and precautions, it should not be a major cause for concern.
Altitude sickness symptoms
Altitude sickness can cause a range of symptoms, including headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue or weakness, shortness of breath during exertion, insomnia, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, it can also lead to confusion or disorientation, coughing up pink or frothy sputum (a sign of fluid in the lungs), and difficulty walking. It’s important to recognize these symptoms early on and seek medical attention if they worsen or persist.
How to avoid altitude sickness
Altitude sickness can be avoided by following these tips:
1. Gradual ascent: Ascend gradually to allow your body to acclimatize to the altitude. Avoid ascending more than 1,000 feet per day if you’re above 8,000 feet.
2. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids like water and electrolyte solutions to prevent dehydration.
3. Avoid alcohol and caffeine: Alcohol and caffeine can cause dehydration, exacerbating altitude sickness symptoms.
4. Get enough rest: Allow your body enough time to rest and adjust to the altitude before engaging in strenuous activities.
5. Consider medication: Consult with a doctor about taking medications like Diamox (acetazolamide) or dexamethasone which can prevent or treat altitude sickness symptoms.
6. Know the symptoms: Learn about the symptoms of altitude sickness and seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of them.
How do you treat altitude sickness?
The treatment for altitude sickness depends on the severity of the symptoms. In mild cases, resting and hydration can help alleviate symptoms. Over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen may also help relieve headaches. Decreasing to a lower altitude and seeking medication attention is the most effective treatment in more severe cases. A doctor may also prescribe oxygen supplementation and medication such as acetazolamide in certain situations. It is important to recognize the symptoms of altitude sickness early and seek medical attention if necessary to prevent further complications.
At what elevation does altitude sickness start?
Altitude sickness can start to develop at elevations above 8,000 feet (2,438 meters). Still, some people may begin to experience symptoms at lower altitudes. It is important to acclimatize properly when traveling to high elevations and to monitor your symptoms closely.
What are the highest elevation ski resorts in Colorado?
The highest elevation ski resort in Colorado is Silverton Mountain Ski Area, which has a base elevation of 10,400 feet (3,200 m) and a peak elevation of 13,487 feet (4,111 m). Other high-altitude ski resorts in Colorado include Arapahoe Basin Ski Area (base: 10,780 ft/3,286 m; peak: 13,050 ft/3,978 m), Loveland Ski Area (base: 10,800 ft/3,292 m; peak: 13,010 ft/3,965 m), Breckenridge Ski Resort (base: 9,600 ft/2,926 m; peak: 12,998 ft/3,963 m), Keystone Resort (base: 9,280 ft/2,829 m; peak: 12,408 ft/3.782m), and Copper Mountain (base: 9.712ft /2.960m; peak:12.313ft /3.753m).
What is the average snowfall for Monarch Mountain?
Monarch Mountain’s slopes have an average snowfall is 350 inches per year. Most seasons last five months, and the snow is 100% natural.
Does Monarch ski resort make snow? (Snowmaking)
No, Monarch ski resort does not make snow and is 100 percent natural.
How long is ski season at Monarch Mountain?
The ski season at Monarch Mountain typically runs from late November to mid-April. However, the actual opening and closing dates may vary depending on snow conditions.
How big is Monarch ski resort?
Monarch Ski Resort is a mid-sized ski resort located in central Colorado, USA. It has 800 acres of skiable terrain, 63 trails, and a vertical drop of 1,162 feet. The resort also has four chairlifts and two conveyor lifts, serving a variety of difficulty levels from beginner to expert. Monarch is one of the oldest Colorado ski resorts, first opening in 1939 with one rope tow up Gunbarrel trail.
Is Monarch good for beginners?
Yes, Monarch Mountain is an excellent option for beginners. Many ski resorts have lifts that are only accessible to intermediate or advanced skiers, but Monarch offers access to the summit for beginners. This makes it easier for skiers of all ages and abilities to enjoy skiing.
Monarch Mountain ski trail map
Monarch’s ski trail map can be found on their official website or at the resort. Some third-party websites also have a copy of the map available for download or viewing.
Is Monarch Mountain part of Epic Pass?
No, Monarch Mountain is not part of the Epic Pass. However, they offer a Migration Ticket discount for Epic Pass holders on weekdays. With the Migration Ticket discount, an Epic Pass holder can buy a lift ticket for $64.
Season passes at Monarch cost $479 for adults aged 18-61, $309 for teens aged 13-17, $249 for juniors aged 7-12, $25 for children aged 6 and under, $339 for seniors aged 62-68, $25 for seniors aged 69+, and $289 for Military.
Monarch Mountain lockers
Yes, Monarch Mountain has day lockers available in two sizes: 12″ x 13″ x 19″ and 12″ x 22″ x 19″. The cost is $8 and $12 per day, respectively (cash or credit card). Lockers are located at the bottom level of the main lodge in the seating area and the Rental and Lesson Center. Day-use rack locks for skis and snowboards are also available for rent or purchase in their Elation Sports shop for $5/day to rent or $25 to purchase. Additionally, skis+poles/snowboard can be stored overnight at their valet near the Rental & Lesson Center for $10/night based on availability. Seasonal lockers that can be rented for the entire season for $450.
Monarch lodging
Monarch Mountain ski resort offers a variety of lodging options to suit different preferences and budgets. These include on-mountain lodges, cabins, vacation rentals, hotels in nearby towns such as Salida and Buena Vista, as well as camping options. Some popular on-mountain lodging choices include The Monarch Mountain Lodge, which features cozy rooms and suites with stunning mountain views; The Chalets at Monarch Park, which offer rustic log cabins with modern amenities; and RV parking and camping facilities at the base of the mountain. The Monarch Mountain Lodge is located three miles east of the ski area.
Additionally, there are several motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rental homes available within a short drive from Monarch Mountain.
What town is Monarch ski area in?
The monarch ski area is located in the town of Salida, Colorado. The ski area is named after the nearby Monarch Pass.
What is the closest airport to Monarch ski resort? (Getting to Monarch)
The closest large airport to Monarch ski resort is the Colorado Springs Airport, which is approximately 2.5 hours away by car. The Denver International Airport is also a popular choice for those traveling to Monarch, and it’s about a 3-hour drive from the resort.
Monarch Mountain stats (Lifts, Skiable Acres, Runs, Terrain Parks, Ski School)
Monarch Mountain has a base elevation of 10,790 feet above sea level and a summit elevation of 11,960 feet, with a vertical drop of 1,162 feet. The ski resort has an average annual snowfall of 350 inches. The typical season length is five months, from late November to early April. Monarch Mountain covers a total skiable area of 800 acres (324 hectares), with lift access to 670 acres and hiking access to 130 acres. There are also guided backcountry areas covering 1,635 acres. Monarch Mountain has a total of 67 trails with 59 lift-served trails and eight hike-to trails (Mirkwood Bowl), which consist of green (easiest) trails covering 15 or 22%, blue (more difficult) trails covering 19 or 27%, black (most difficult expert terrain) trails covering 24 or 36%, and double black (extreme) trails covering eight or12%.
Additionally, two terrain parks are available for visitors, making up about three percent of the total trail area. The longest run at Monarch Mountain is one mile long. Ski lift hours are from 9:00 AM-4:00 PM. A ski school is available.
Conclusion
In conclusion, visiting Monarch Mountain Ski Resort in the Pike San Isabel National Forest can be a wonderful experience. However, it requires preparation and awareness of potential risks associated with high altitudes. By taking preventative measures such as acclimating slowly and staying hydrated while limiting alcohol and caffeine consumption, along with avoiding overexertion on your first day at Monarch Mountain, you can reduce your risk of experiencing altitude sickness. If symptoms persist or worsen despite these measures, seek medical attention promptly to ensure your safety and enjoyment of your ski trip.