With summer fast approaching, Monarch Mountain closed on March 29. Skiers and snowboarders all gathered under bluebird skies to celebrate closing day. Closing day is an annual tradition up at Monarch mountain that brings the community together through tailgating, costumes, music, and of course, skiing and snowboarding.
This season was a challenging one, with lower than average snowfall compared to past years. Still the Monarch locals made the best of it, showing up all season long, especially on closing day. The energy at the base was filled with music and groups of people soaking in their last day on the mountain.
Lucy Lenth, a sophomore at SHS, shared her favorite memory from this season,“My best day this season was the one good powder day we got in January!” she said. “Even though there wasn’t a lot of snow this season I think people made the most of it, but it was extra exciting when we did get that storm.” Despite the dry season, many locals continue to highlight the few powder days. It serves as a reminder on why people continue to ride Monarch year after year.
Closing day is known for its hyped atmosphere, and Lenth, when asked if she did something special, said “Yep, bikinis and tailgating!”
From dressing up to cookouts in the parking lot, the closing day scene is lively. It’s not unusual to see skiers in swimsuits, retro gear or even full costumes carving down the slopes. The tradition adds to a sense of fun and celebration that makes people eager to come back next season.
Myah Scott, another sophomore at Salida High School explained why she wanted to come up for closing day. “I wanted to go to closing day to just conclude the season and give it a fun end with some of my favorite people!” for Myah the day wasn’t just about skiing, it was about spending time with close friends and making memories. When asked what she was going to miss most Scott says, “What I will miss most is snowboarding with my friends, having the fun long days out on the mountain.”
The sense of connection Monarch provides is what makes it so special. Unlike larger more commercial ski areas, Monarch has built a strong community focused mountain where locals feel at home.
Chloe Valier, a Senior at Salida High school says “Traditions that make monarch feel different from big ski areas are big things like the gun barrel race or different events that monarch puts a but it’s also the small things. Finding a friend or even a stranger and going on a run or 5 with them. The community is amazing”
She also explained how Monarch traditions give everyone a sense of belonging. “The traditions at Monarch bring the locals together and it reminds me that we’re all a family even if we are strangers, acquaintances, or friends.” This perspective highlights what most locals feel every year.
As the lifts slowed for the last time. Monarch mountain served as a reminder that skiing isn’t just about snow, it’s about friendships, memories, and bringing the community together in a uniquely local way.
