Don't have the spare change laying around for a weeklong trip to Telluride? Me neither. That's why this season I took a trip to Monarch Mountain just outside of Salida, CO.
There should be a sign, "Welcome to Monarch, CO, home of friendly folks, great snow, and lift tickets you can actually afford!" As you can see, there isn't but here's the secret. Lift tickets are only $50 something to start with but if you fill up your car at a local Shell gas station you can bring the receipt to the mountain and get 2for1 lift tickets! No joke. This place is just that local and great.
Minnesota Public Radio's very own Photo/Video guy, Nate Ryan. He's got a blog post on the trip as well. Go find it!
Our local guide and blogger extraordinaire, Rob Werge. Also happens to be my uncle and an all around good dude.
Cousin Jens floating through the trees. He's unlinkable and an enigma. Keep wondering ladies.
Extra secret! No receipt? No problem. There is usually someone near the lift ticket counter looking for a stranger to buy a 2for1 ticket with. Seriously, it's crazy easy to get cheap tickets at this mountain. And there are hot springs and a good hostel! 2013? Yes, please.