Monarch Mountain Expansion Approved

Monarch Mountain skiers and snowboarders rejoice! After years of planning and environmental review, the U.S. Forest Service has officially approved the resort's expansion into the No Name Basin. This marks the first major terrain addition for Monarch in over two decades.

The expansion project will add a whopping 377 acres of skiable terrain to Monarch's footprint, bringing the total to 1,146 acres. The new territory, previously accessible only through cat skiing operations, will be a haven for intermediate and advanced skiers. Ten cut trails will snake through 62 acres, with an additional 75 acres of gladed terrain offering a thrilling off-piste experience.

“We are SO excited to actually get started on this project after years of planning and project review by multiple entities,” said Scott Pressly, Vice President of Mountain Operations at Monarch Mountain.

A new fixed-grip triple chairlift with a length of 2,700 feet will whisk skiers and snowboarders up the 960-foot vertical rise of No Name Basin. The expansion will also feature a much-needed warming hut and restroom facilities at the base of the lift, enhancing the overall comfort and convenience for guests.

Construction is slated to begin in mid-to-late July this year, focusing on access roads, power lines, and initial trail cutting. The new lift, warming hut, and restrooms are expected to be installed by summer 2025. Skiers and snowboarders can expect to carve fresh tracks on the No Name Basin terrain by the 2025-2026 winter season.

The expansion is a significant development for Monarch Mountain, known for its laid-back atmosphere and focus on the local community. The additional terrain caters to a wider range of skiers and snowboarders, potentially attracting more visitors while preserving the mountain's unique charm.