Monarch Mountain to expand skiable area in No Name Basin

(CHAFFEE COUNTY, Colo.) — Monarch Mountain announced that, after a decade of planning, it had received permission from the US Forest Service to expand its special use permit boundary into the No Name Basin, adding 377 acres of skiable terrain on the west side of the Continental Divide.

The area is currently being used by Monarch Cat Skiing operations and will offer access to traditionally cleared trails and glades for primarily intermediate to advanced skiers.

The plans were under review from the San Isabel and Gunnison National Forests for three years before the approval came through. Analyses were conducted that determined that there would be no significant impact on sensitive cultural resources or wetlands in the area.

“This has truly been a labor of love,” said Monarch Mountain COO and General Manager, Randy Stroud. “We plan to work together along with the Forest Service on continuing education with regard to the importance of preservation of all cultural aspects of the area and beyond. That process has been rewarding. So, now on with the crux of the matter… more room for skiing and riding. Time to get to work.”

The project is also expected to improve forest health and reduce hazardous fuels by removing timber affected by the spruce beetle epidemic.

Construction is expected to begin in mid to late July, starting with building the access road, extending powerlines, and cutting runs. In summer 2025, the ski area plans to install a three-person, 2,700-foot-long fixed grip lift with a warming hut and restroom facility.

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