If you’ve driven over Monarch Pass, you’ve surely noticed the colorful gondola at its summit. The classic Monarch Crest and Scenic Tramway was purchased by Monarch Mountain in fall 2022, and the ski mountain has announced its grand opening will take place Saturday, June 10, 2023, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Monarch has remodeled the space to include a welcome center, retail store and food venue called Monarch Mountain at the Crest. The location sits at 11, 312 feet on both the Continental Divide Trail and the Crest Trail, and the Colorado Trail is nearby. The location is a popular starting point for mountain bikers riding the Monarch Crest Trail, an iconic long ride that takes them all the way down to Salida. The Crest will carry items to allow hikers and bikers on these trails to restock, and Colorado Trail thru-hikers will be able to receive packages to help support their journey.
“We are thrilled to add this to our portfolio as it is a natural extension of what we already do,” said Randy Stroud, general manager and COO of Monarch Mountain, when the company purchased the property. “We look forward to … serving the needs of all those who recreate on the Divide.”
“Everyone is invited to join in the grand opening activites,” said Kathryn Wadsworth, Monarch event coordinator in a press release. “This will be a fun opportunity to check out what Monarch Mountain at the Crest has to offer and ride the Scenic Tramway to enjoy the incredible views of five mountain ranges from the top of the Continental Divide!”
For the Grand Opening day, Scenic Tram rides will be half price, but all current 2023-2024 Monarch season pass holders ride for free when presenting their season pass. DJ J.M. Kreski will be playing music. The new Elation Sports Shop will offer 20% off all retail items. And there will be ribbon cuttings by the Salida, Buena Vista and Gunnison Chamber of Commerces. The cafe, Freshies, will offer its full menu as well as a grand opening special and tastings of milkshakes and smoothies.
Normal operating hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through late September. You can find details at monarchatthecrest.com.
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