Saturday

Monarch Pass

Gunnison side of Monarch Pass

Monarch Pass is one of my favorite passes in Colorado. Monarch Pass is a stretch of Highway 50 going from just outside of Poncha Springs towards Gunnison and of course is home to Monarch Ski Area. Monarch Pass is known for being one of the most scenic passes in Colorado, although I'm not sure how you decide that in a state where every pass is scenic and gorgeous in its own way.


At the summit of Monarch Pass there is a visitor center with a gift shop and you can even take a gondola ride with views over 100 miles. The summit is also located along the continental divide.

Abandoned Madonna Mine near by Monarch Pass 

 Abandoned Madonna Mine near by Monarch Pass 

Abandoned Madonna Mine near by Monarch Pass 

One of my favorite sites from Monarch Pass is the abandoned Madonna Mine, Colorado is full of abandoned mines and Ghost towns, which always intrigue me. I just love the idea of the little glimpse of history that you get, it's like a little glimpse into the past.


No matter where you stop and look along Monarch Pass, you are sure to be greeted by spectacular views. But like most passes in the Colorado high country, be prepared for anything, even a snow storm in the middle of the summer.

Snow on Monarch Pass in the Summer

Never knowing the kind of weather that you are going to encounter in Colorado is just part of the adventure.

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