Yo, snow chasers! If you’ve been keeping an eye on the situation down in the San Juans, you know things have been pretty heavy. Telluride—which typically boasts a solid 72.9/100 on ShredIndex and some of the gnarliest terrain in the state—has been closed since December 27 due to a ski patrol strike. It’s a massive bummer for everyone involved, from the workers fighting for their contracts to the families who planned their holiday trips months ago.
But in true Colorado fashion, a hero has emerged from the sidelines. Monarch Mountain just announced they are stepping up to the plate, and honestly? It’s a total boss move.
The Deal: Monarch to the Rescue
Here’s the scoop: Monarch Mountain is offering free lift tickets to those left high and dry by the closure. This isn’t just a marketing stunt; it’s a genuine lifeline for the ski community.
- For Telluride Employees: If you work for the resort (or are a dependent), you can snag up to three complimentary lift tickets.
- For Passholders & Guests: If you have a valid Telluride season pass or bought a day ticket for dates between Dec 29 and Jan 8, you also get free access to Monarch for up to three days.
This offer runs through January 8, 2026. It’s a sick way to keep the stoke alive when plans go sideways.
Why We Love Monarch
If you haven’t shredded Monarch yet, you are missing out on a hidden gem. Located near Salida, it’s about a three-hour drive from Telluride, but totally worth the trek. This place is fiercely independent—no mega-pass crowds here, just good vibes and great lines.
They don’t do snowmaking, relying 100% on Mother Nature. While it’s been a slow start to the season across Colorado, recent storms have delivered the goods, and they’ve got over half the mountain open. Plus, the hike-to terrain in Mirkwood Bowl offers some serious face shots if you’re willing to earn your turns.
Monarch said it best in their statement: they "care deeply about our ski community and are glad to open our doors to help keep winter plans on track." That is what skiing is all about, folks.
The Bigger Picture
The situation at Telluride is complicated. The Telluride Professional Ski Patrol Association is striking for a wage structure that supports long-term retention, while the resort maintains their offer is sustainable. It’s tough to see lifts spinning empty during peak season, but hopefully, they can find common ground soon.
In the meantime, if you’re stranded in the area and need to find accommodation or pivot your plans, heading north to Monarch seems like the play. They’ve even got a "Migration Ticket" for $69 if you hold a pass at any other resort, proving once again that they are all about getting people on snow.
Keep your tips up and fingers crossed for a resolution soon. Until then, go send it at Monarch!
Source: SnowBrains
