Monarch Mountain: Monarch is about 20 miles west of Salida. Many Colorado residents think of Monarch as Colorado’s best-kept secret due to its fantastic terrain and lack of crowds.  Add the fact that Monarch gets more than 350 inches of snowfall a year, and you can see why it is a premier resort for those who are all about the skiing and riding. Monarch also has a terrain park and plenty of beginner runs. Find steep and deep discounts on Monarch lift tickets at GetSkiTickets!