Monarch Pass Overlook & Trailhead - CDT Access
Monarch Pass is between Gunnison and Poncha Springs along U.S. Highway 50, which crosses the Continental Divide at 11,312 feet, offering sweeping vistas of central Colorado’s Sawatch Range. A large parking area, gift shop and gondola make this a popular rest stop. It also serves as the trailhead for the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, known locally as the Monarch Crest Trail.
General Information
Year-round
Pets must be on a leash or under verbal control.
Address: 5575 Cleora Road Salida, CO 81201
Phone: 719-539-3591
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays)
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 38.49615914
Longitude: -106.3250917
Elevation
11,312 feet
Directions
From Salida, CO, take U.S. Highway 50 west for 22.5 miles to Monarch Pass.
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Picnic Tables
Picnic tables are not available at this site.
Horse/Pack Animal Information
Horse/Pack animals are allowed at this site.
Nearby Trails
Recreation Opportunities
OHV Trail RidingOHV Trail Riding Info
Motorcycles are allowed on Continental Divide Trail #531 (Monarch Crest).
Recreation Groups
These recreation sites and trail segments are located along the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.