The gift shop has many meaningful souvenirs and free popcorn if you ride the gondola.... We stopped at the top of Monarch Pass, and always do, for a number of reasons:*clean bathrooms*fun gift shop*ice cream and fudge break! Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Scroll right to see more Conditions Comfort Precipitation Sun; Day Temperature Weather Feels Like Wind Humidity Chance Amount UV Sunrise Sunset; Wed Dec 16: 30 / 15 °F: Light snow. Newberry's Store; Mesa Creek; Blue Mesa Dam; Pine Creek; Sights & Landmarks in Monarch. Homemade ice cream too. already! The views are amazing. “Branching off of U.S. 50/Monarch Pass, this trail offers easy to access and mellow terrain- perfect for beginners or experienced skiers alike. Nov 24, 2020 - "Combining aerobic activity with ease of walking over snow without sinking in, snowshoeing is an activity for all ages." Best snowshoeing trails in Salida, Colorado 553 Reviews Explore the most popular snowshoeing trails near Salida with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. I did not notice if there were any places to pull over and there really was no scenic view that I recall. The “new” road over the pass, which is still in use today, was completed in 1939. Old Monarch Pass Loop is a 3.2 mile loop trail located near Salida, Colorado that offers scenic views. Whether you’re a free spirit or prefer to follow a groomed path, here’s a list to get you snowshoeing in Colorado's great outdoors this winter.Freestyle Snowshoeing TrailsIf you have a freestyle mindset with no need for a guide, groomed trails or rental facilities, these areas offer plenty of options to create your own unique Colorado snowshoeing experience. I haven't been over the pass in years and was a little worried about taking or small RV over it. Topping out at 11,312 feet, Monarch Pass receives over 350 inches of snow in the winter months; while this kind of snowfall is less than ideal for driving conditions, it makes for perfect backcountry skiing and riding. Length 3.2 miElevation gain 511 ftRoute type Loop. The traverse affords you wonderful views of the Collegiate […] Read More… view this trip. We love this area - so much to do and see. The newly groomed trail system came about as a collaboration between passionate recreationists and willing landowners. Share. Even in winter, this is an awesome road. Even in winter, this is an awesome road. The 4 mile loop around the lake includes stretches on the Arapaho Pass Trail #6, Arapaho Pass Spur Trail 6.1, and the Cascade Creek Trail #1. This mellow, easy-to-access route across the Continental Divide follows a snow-covered 4×4 road that’s almost always packed down by snowmobilers and other winter sportsmen. But, in winter, do take care. Old Monarch Pass Road . Old Monarch Pass Rd Snowshoe Distance: 2.6 miles round trip to the pass Elevation: 10,939 ft to 11,392 ft Elevation Gain: 453 ft. 3. Salida Snowshoe & Nordic Trails. Instead of sitting in I-70 traffic this weekend, head south to enjoy this mellow snowshoe or ski trail along a historic road near the summit of Monarch Pass. ), some family visitors wanted to ski and snowboard at Monarch Mountain Ski and Snowboard Area, but Lisa and I wanted to go snowshoeing instead.So, while they hit the slopes, we drove a little further up the highway towards Monarch Pass to the parking area and road to Old Monarch Pass. Date of experience: June 2020. Advertising and Sponsorship Opportunities. share. The road climbs gradually from the highway … If you want to try something new, or if there’s not enough snow for snowshoeing, they also rent fat bikes. We saw many hikers... Keep up with what's happening at Monarch, as well as our COVID-19 preparedness, straight from our GM. This three-mile trail is the perfect playground because it connects to all types of terrain so you can go as hard as you want or as easy as you want. Purchase lift tickets online, in advance, and save up to 40% off the window price! Monarch Pass: Another stop on our journey - See 103 traveler reviews, 79 candid photos, and great deals for Monarch, CO, at Tripadvisor. Monarch Pass Backcounty Skiing; Backcountry Powder Camp; Backcountry Hut Trips; Intro To The Backcountry; Avalanche Education . Soooo worth it! Bill Forrest, a Colorado climbing legend who also made notable innovations in mountaineering equipment, died Dec. 21 while snowshoeing near Monarch Pass. Wow!!! Matt was on skis and Sandra and I raced to keep up, so we made very good time to the bridge across Healy Creek about 3 km from the parking lot. Take a tranquil loop around a pristine mountain meadow. However the roads have been up dated sense my last trip over and it was a good drive not sure if i would want to tow or drive a large RV over it. snowshoeing. We had a short break here, but didn’t linger long in the cold. Tickets. We found the roads to be safe and not slippery even in the snow. Keep up with what's happening at Monarch, as well as our COVID-19 preparedness, straight from our GM. COTREX is a project by the Colorado DNR and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. However the roads have been up dated sense my last trip over and it was a good drive not sure if i would want to tow or drive a large RV over it. Topping out at 11,312 feet, Monarch Pass receives over 350 inches of snow in the winter months; while this kind of snowfall is less than ideal for driving conditions, it makes for perfect backcountry skiing and riding. The 22-mile road opened in September 1921, and—fun fact—cost about $10,000 per mile to build. The kids loved seeing snow & flowers next to each other. Snowshoeing near Salida or Monarch Mtn, Colorado? Colorado is full of easy-to-find and well-marked snowshoe trails, so you can get your hiking fix, see the mountains in a new perspe… hide . We started snowshoeing along the lower ski out at 8:30, turning right onto the Healy Pass trail after a few hundred meters. Saturday, February 21, 2009. gm update. River Rafting & Tubing, Fishing Charters & Tours. Photo Gallery SKI & SNOWSHOE WITH CARE. If you think your hiking days are over until spring, think again. Loved Hwy 50! He was 73. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are some of winters greatest outdoor pleasures. Moosestomp is a bit more challenging and leads uphill to a scenic lookout point. Learn More . Traveling westbound on US 50 the turn-off to Old Monarch Pass is approximately a half mile past the entrance to the ski area. But as a beginner, it can be hard to know where to start. More of her work can be found at down2earthscience.com. Old Monarch Pass Loop is a 3.2 mile loop trail located near Salida, Colorado that offers scenic views. Challenging and invigorating, it’s a must do for hiking enthusiasts. read more, Beautiful spot on HWY 50 with a gift shop and Tramway. Denver, CO 80202. Bill Forrest, a Colorado climbing legend who also made notable innovations in mountaineering equipment, died Dec. 21 while snowshoeing near Monarch Pass. I haven't been over the pass in years and was a little worried about taking or small RV over it. 1675 Larimer St.
read more, Old Monarch Pass is a great place to snowshoe. Tamalpais & Point Reyes; Punta Gorda Lighthouse; Washington. This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Monarch is not the highest mountain in the Atlin area, but it is a great short day trip that gets you up to the sub-alpine to view the other majestic peaks. Local trails offer adventure for cross-country skiing & snowshoeing near Ski Town Condos on Monarch Pass. AIARE Level 1 Rec; AIARE Level 1 Hut-Based (Crested Butte) AIARE Level 1 Hut-Based (Monarch Pass) AIARE Avalanche Rescue; AIARE Level 2 Rec; Avalanche Refresher; Ski Mountaineering. Buy Now Learn More . Browns Creek near Nathrop has several trails for cross-country skiers and snowshoers to try. Pre-hike buzz: Stop at the Java Moose in Fairplay for a hot drink and a “world-famous” breakfast burrito If you've never done it before, it might be best to go on a guided tour. Old Monarch Pass, Salida For a relatively quick jaunt, head to the top of Old Monarch Pass right from the trailhead and parking area. More clouds than sun. Archived. $10 a person (adult) and a quick trip to the top. Monarch Pass Backcounty Skiing; Backcountry Powder Camp; Backcountry Hut Trips; Intro To The Backcountry; Avalanche Education . We had a short break here, but didn’t linger long in the cold. Helpful. We drove east from Montrose. Length: 2.5 miles round trip Would be great for cross country skiing. save. Crested Butte Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing Welcome to CB Nordic! Would be great for cross country skiing. Hiking, Snowshoeing, Photography, and Travel in Colorado and Beyond. Web Cams. Date of experience: June 2020. Old Monarch Pass Road. Dogs: Allowed per U.S. Forest Service regulations. Terri Cook is an award-winning freelance writer based in Boulder. Read more. The route follows what is commonly called Old Monarch Pass, a path begun in 1919 to shorten the original wagon trail through this area. Monarch Pass is a good place for a break when traveling the 50. We crossed Monarch Pass on 9-15-14 traveling west from Salida. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. He was 73.A Salida resident who summited Get Here. Keep me up to date on the latest trends and happenings around Denver. 2 Week Extended Forecast in Kenosha Pass, Colorado, USA. Web Cam Monarch Mountain Base Area Salida, Colorado. About 2 miles in and two miles back out. Great views! Old Monarch Pass is a great place to snowshoe. The out-and-back Redtail trail is best for beginners. Whether you’re a free spirit or prefer to follow a groomed path, here’s a list to get you snowshoeing in Colorado's great outdoors this winter.Freestyle Snowshoeing TrailsIf you have a freestyle mindset with no need for a guide, groomed trails or rental facilities, these areas offer plenty of options to create your own unique Colorado snowshoeing experience. Get Here. If you do continue, take care to avoid any steeper terrain that has the potential to pose any avalanche danger. shop online. Would be great for cross country skiing Branching off of U.S. 50/Monarch Pass, this trail offers easy to access and mellow terrain- perfect for beginners or experienced skiers alike. The trail is good for all skill levels and offers a number of activity options. Old Monarch Pass, Salida. However the roads have been up dated sense my last trip over and it was a good drive not sure if i would want to tow or drive a large RV over it. Located near Granby, this trail takes you on a loop around the scenic mountain lake and has enough to do and see that you can keep the kiddos entertained. Road on No Name Creek, Major Creek, and South Arkansas River in Gunnison National Forest, San Isabel National Forest. The gift store has food, gifts, and nice animal display inside, and clean bathroom. Miles: 16 round trip Vertical: 2,000ft Starting at Badger Pass ski resort there is a groomed snowshoe trail that follows Glacier Point rd. At the peak, there is a small cafe and shop. Web Cams. Monarch Pass: Ausome running and hiking trails - See 100 traveller reviews, 55 candid photos, and great deals for Monarch, CO, at Tripadvisor. Posted by 3 years ago. Take a tranquil loop around a pristine mountain meadow. If you have some time take the lift ride ($$) up and get some great photos. Date of experience: February 2020. They do offer jackets for riders because it can get cold and windy. A Salida resident who summited p… I haven't been over the pass in years and was a little worried about taking or small RV over it. Difficulty: Easy AIARE Level 1 Rec; AIARE Level 1 Hut-Based (Crested Butte) AIARE Level 1 Hut-Based (Monarch Pass) AIARE Avalanche Rescue; AIARE Level 2 Rec; Avalanche Refresher; Ski Mountaineering. Share. Why we love it: A mellow outing with just enough uphill to feel like you’ve earned the wonderful top-of-the-mountain views more. This trail begins on the north side of U.S. 50 a short distance below the crest of 11,312-foot Monarch Pass. We stopped at Monarch Pass for a bit. Park at the trailhead and head up the trail for just over a mile. Colorado is full of easy-to-find and well-marked snowshoe trails, so you can get your hiking fix, see the mountains in a new perspe… . There's a HUGE... Beautiful spot on HWY 50 with a gift shop and Tramway. Snowshoeing is one of the best ways to get outside and enjoy the beauty of winter. But if you get the chance to drive its a beautiful pass … Read more. The Nordic Ski Capital of Colorado Start Skiing & Snowshoeing with Us Naturally distant, Naturally beautiful Rentals & Day Passes Explore Our Trails for the Day Start Skiing & Snowshoeing with Us Private Lessons for kids & Adults Learn to Ski Get more out of winter with our expert instructors. When to go: Early winter through spring, depending on snow conditions Hiking, Snowshoeing, Photography, and Travel in Colorado and Beyond. Take a Guided Tour, Summit County. From the highway, the easy-to-follow route gradually ascends about 400 feet in elevation, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the towering, snow-covered clusters of lodgepole pines, Colorado blue spruce, and Douglas Fir. Snowshoeing. However the roads have been up dated sense my last trip over and it was a good drive not sure if i would want to tow or drive a large RV over it. Monarch Pass lies between Gunnison and Salida and is the easiest way to reach Southwest Colorado from the Denver Metro Area. Even in winter, this is an awesome road. This route also takes you from Denver over Independence Pass (12,095 ft). Learn More . The Waterdog Lakes Trail on Monarch Pass is a steep, high-altitude climb of less than two miles to small lakes close to 11,300 feet in elevation. The trails, nestled at the base of Monarch Pass, welcome both fat biking or snowshoeing as well. Would be great for cross country skiing. Old Monarch Pass, Salida. If you want to try something new, or if there’s not enough snow for snowshoeing, they also rent fat bikes. Snowshoe Magazine’s Comprehensive Guide to Snowshoeing For Beginners: Snowshoeing Tips On What to Buy, Where to Go, How to Get Started and Learn What’s Important. Location: Monarch Pass Distance: 10.4 Miles – Out & Back Travel Time: 4.5 – 6 Hours Type of Trail: Singletrack & Road Aerobic Level: Strenuous Technical Difficulty: Ski – Advanced; Shoe – Advanced Avalanche Danger: Moderate -. It’s only a short drive from Creekside Chalets and Cabins, plus it’s incredibly scenic. Monarch pass is a beautiful drive! Or, if you’re seeking a more challenging backcountry adventure, explore a shady canyon or embark on a heart pounding trek up a snow shrouded peak to witness spectacular winter views. The views are amazing! I might be alone or with some friends. Bill Forrest, a Colorado climbing legend who also made notable innovations in mountaineering equipment, died Dec. 21 while snowshoeing near Monarch Pass. Monarch pass is a beautiful drive! The road climbs gradually from the highway to the high Continental Divide with big views of all the surrounding mountain ranges… This winter adventure starts on the north side of U.S. 50 just above the Monarch Mountain ski area. See more ideas about snow shoes, winter, aerobic activity. He was 73. Monarch Lake Monarch Lake. This thread is archived. Just respect your limits and the terrain. Suite 675
Get out of the city and enjoy a family-friendly hike around Monarch Lake. Sat, Jan 2, 2016, 10:00 AM: Kathy P. will be snowshoeing Old Monarch Pass this Saturday the 2nd, and has graciously invited members of our group to attend.If you would like to go, please contact her a Most unique for the Long Branch trails is the location — with the new Nordic trails traversing across private property, part of the Post Ranch just south of Sargents. About 2 miles in and two miles back out. I was rather surprised to discover we had climbed to 11,312 feet! Like. One of our favorite areas for cross-country skiing is Old Monarch Pass Road. Or, if you’re seeking a more challenging backcountry adventure, explore a shady canyon or embark on a heart pounding trek up a snow shrouded peak to witness spectacular winter views. Now you can shop branded gear + gifts at our new Monarch online retail store! The staff was very friendly and helpful. Like. Monarch Mountain and Monarch Pass is on U.S. Highway 50, right along the Continental Divide, in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. About 2 miles in and two miles back out. But if you get the chance to drive its a beautiful pass … Read more. Destination Questions. Helpful. Review tags are currently only available for English language reviews. But, in winter, do take care. Date of experience: June 2020. Helpful. I haven't been over the pass in years and was a little worried about taking or small RV over it. JSTrip_77 wrote a review Jan 2020. The summit of Old Monarch Pass and the blowing snow. 5280 Publishing, Inc.
Park in the large, plowed area on the right side of the highway near the “Old Monarch Pass” road sign, where the route begins. gm update. Avoid this route during “Considerable” and above avalanche ratings. We had our German Shepherd with us and she was able to ride also! Turn west here onto U.S. 50 and follow this road to just below the top of Monarch Pass. Here we share everything you’ve ever wanted to know about snowshoeing. This is wonderful place to spend time if love high altitudes! Snowshoeing near Salida or Monarch Mtn, Colorado? Hanoi, Vietnam 972 contributions 391 helpful votes. Snowshoeing is easy to learn, fun for everyone, and can be a great high energy cardio workout. nice ski area that is not as well known (and therefore NOT AS CROWDED) as most of the other Colorado ski areas. Web Cam Monarch Mountain Lodge. *water bottle filling stations*picture at the Continental Divide sign (and spill some water there just for fun)This time we decided to ride the gondola up to the top. Monarch is not the highest mountain in the Atlin area, but it is a great short day trip that gets you up to the sub-alpine to view the other majestic peaks. Monarch Pass: 2020 Top Things to Do in Gunnison County. Monarch pass is a beautiful drive! Southern Colorado Snowboarding, Snowshoeing. snowshoeing. The out-and-back Redtail trail is best for beginners. See weather overview. Monarch pass is a beautiful drive! Matt was on skis and Sandra and I raced to keep up, so we made very good time to the bridge across Healy Creek about 3 km from the parking lot. Garrapata Ridge Hike; Cone Peak via Sea to Sky; Matilija Canyon; Northern Ca. Road on No Name Creek, Major Creek, and South Arkansas River in Gunnison National Forest, San Isabel National Forest. This location is easily accessible for … Snowshoeing. He was 73. Web Cam CDOT Monarch Pass Salida, Colorado. Web Cams . Highly recommend. If you’re looking for more trail options, any of the seasoned pros at local rental shops can point you toward a trail that will be perfect for you. Kenosha Pass Extended Forecast with high and low temperatures °F. Learn More . About 2 miles in and two miles back out. The trail … It’s a 3-mile round trip that will have you craving more time on your snowshoes, and thankfully you’ll already be in a great place for further explorations. The trail is good for all skill levels and offers a number of activity options. This trail begins on the north side of U.S. 50 a short distance below the crest of 11,312-foot Monarch Pass. Keep your eyes peeled for deer and elk who frequent the area. This three-mile trail is the perfect playground because it connects to all types of terrain so you can go as hard as you want or as easy as you want. It was approx. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Old Monarch Pass Rd Snowshoe Distance: 2.6 miles round trip to the pass Elevation: 10,939 ft to 11,392 ft Elevation Gain: 453 ft. Why Did Palantir Technologies Move Its Headquarters From Silicon Valley to Denver? Back on December 29 th, 2016 (6 weeks ago . A great way to be outside in winter!. You might drive by the trailhead sign several times before finally finding it back in the trees. Monarch Pass: beautiful drive - See 103 traveler reviews, 79 candid photos, and great deals for Monarch, CO, at Tripadvisor. The kids, adults & dog loved it. Loved Hwy 50! Old Monarch Pass is a great place to snowshoe. Read more. He was 73. Several of the most popular trails have easy access from Monarch Pass. Great views! Occasionally, you may find yourself sharing a trail with cross-country skiers. Old Monarch Pass is 4 miles from Ski Town Condos, ample parking on US 50, and offers 360-degree views. Hotels near Monarch Pass; Near Airports. Date of experience: February 2020. Restrooms: None at the trailhead Hidden on Monarch Pass about 22 miles from Salida, Colorado is a hiking trail soon to become one of your favorites. Berry Creek Falls; Mt. Saturday, February 21, 2009. One of our favorite areas for cross-country skiing is Old Monarch Pass Road. In January of 2006, I took a road trip to Salida for Martin Luther King’s birthday. If you think your hiking days are over until spring, think again. But, do stay within your comfort zone. All too soon, you arrive at the divide, where you’re treated to sweeping alpine views from the San Juans to the Sawatch. Included with the trail pass is complimentary access to an ice-skating rink. 5280 has a newsletter for everyone. A large parking area, gift shop, and gondola make this a popular rest stop. 100% Upvoted. We stopped at Monarch Pass for a bit. The route follows what is commonly called Old Monarch Pass, a path begun in 1919 to shorten the original wagon trail through this area. I do know, however, that the fall color was beautiful. But, in winter, do take care. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. A Salida resident who summited p… season passes. Monarch Pass lies between Gunnison and Salida and is the easiest way to reach Southwest Colorado from the Denver Metro Area. . Hanoi, Vietnam 972 contributions 391 helpful votes. But if you get the chance to drive its a beautiful pass … Read more. He was 73. Monarch Pass travelers' reviews, business hours, introduction, open hours. A note about snowshoeing etiquette: You don’t have to stick to trails when snowshoeing, though you likely will begin with trails for your first few trips. Hotels near (DEN) Denver Intl Airport; Hotels near (MTJ) Montrose County Airport; Hotels near (GUC) Gunnison Airport; All things to do in Monarch; Things to do near Monarch Pass. Check out updated best hotels & restaurants near Monarch Pass. 3 comments. Moosestomp is a bit more challenging and leads uphill to a scenic lookout point. The rates are expensive, $25 for adults for a day pass, but drop significantly for kids, and rentals are available as well. Any suggestions? JSTrip_77 wrote a review Jan 2020. The lack of steep terrain reduces the risk of avalanches in this area, but it’s always important to check conditions before you go and take appropriate precautions. I will likely be up there this coming MLK weekend. Buy your 2020-21 season pass today! Now you can shop branded gear + gifts at our new Monarch online retail store! Taft Point Snowshoeing; Monarch Lakes; Pyramid Peak via Rocky Canyon; Big Sur/SoCal. Close. After last week's massive storm dumped 70 inches of snow on the peaks, Old Monarch Pass Road is the perfect first cross-country ski or snowshoe trail to start your winter of snowy adventures. Once you’ve enjoyed the panoramas, you can return to your vehicle or, if you’re up for more, continue west, descending along the road until you’re ready to turn around and climb back up to the pass. Locate the Old Monarch Pass trailhead, and you're there. For cross-country skiers and snowshoers looking to try out a backcountry trail, the Sawatch Range offers a variety of choices, from all-day adventures to short, kid-friendly options. 17 °F: 12 mph ↑ … Old Monarch Pass Road . Old Monarch Pass is a great place to snowshoe. We took the gondola to the top of the crest. But if you get the chance to drive its a beautiful pass … Read more. We started snowshoeing along the lower ski out at 8:30, turning right onto the Healy Pass trail after a few hundred meters. It is well marked and snowplow drivers clear a wide area for parking on the side of the road. There's a HUGE... Leave Golden, CO, and head south on US 285 towards US 50 and Monarch Mountain. Helpful. Monarch Mountain trail: If you're in or around Atlin, be sure to do this hike - it offers some great views of Atlin Lake & Atlin Mountain as well as Teresa Island, the 2nd tallest lake-island on the planet. If you’re looking for more trail options, any of the seasoned pros at local rental shops can point you toward a trail that will be perfect for you. Backcountry travel is a physically strenuous activity with many risks and dangers. He was 73. report. Monarch Mountain trail: If you're in or around Atlin, be sure to do this hike - it offers some great views of Atlin Lake & Atlin Mountain as well as Teresa Island, the 2nd tallest lake-island on the planet. The turn off to Taft Point is about 7 miles up the groomed trail, the last .5miles is single track. The summit of Old Monarch Pass and the blowing snow. From the parking area, a wide and obvious signed path heads west along Forest Service Road 237. Included with the trail pass is complimentary access to an ice-skating rink. From the parking area, a wide and obvious signed path heads west along Forest Service Road 237. Locate the Old Monarch Pass trailhead, and you're there. We saw many hikers... Hotels near (MTJ) Montrose County Airport, Monarch Snowmobile Tours: Tickets & Tours. 8. Buy Now Learn More . Last 2 weeks of weather. We were the first to arrive, but by the time … In January of 2006, I took a road trip to Salida for Martin Luther King’s birthday. Monarch Lake is not always within view so pay attention to the signs as you travel along the route. Just respect your limits and the terrain. The view at the top is fantastic! Bonus: each ride ticket also gets free popcorn! Tickets. Geographic Region(s): Trip Length: 10 - 14 Days; Day 1. Snowshoeing is easy to learn, fun for everyone, and can be a great high energy cardio workout. Learn More . Monarch Pass is between Gunnison and Poncha Springs along Colorado’s Highway 50, which crosses the Continental Divide at 11,312 feet, offering sweeping vistas of central Colorado’s Sawatch Range. We drove east from Montrose. Take a Guided Tour, Summit County. We actually made a u-turn to come back and take the scenic tram ride to the top. It’s only a short drive from Creekside Chalets and Cabins, plus it’s incredibly scenic. 279 Shares Post tags: powder day , snowshoeing , winter activities Getting there: From Denver, follow U.S. 285 south through Fairplay to the small town of Poncha Springs. Buy your 2020-21 season pass today! If you've never done it before, it might be best to go on a guided tour. Homemade ice cream too. Bill Forrest, a Colorado climbing legend who also made notable innovations in mountaineering equipment, died Dec. 21 while snowshoeing near Monarch Pass. Destination Questions. Date of experience: June 2020. shop online. Bill Forrest, a Colorado climbing legend who also made notable innovations in mountaineering equipment, died Dec. 21 while snowshoeing near Monarch Pass.