Okay, the best expert skiing is really at Mirkwood Basin, you know that. But it is a tough hike (especially at 11,000′), and most of your homies are not going to come with you.
So, head over to Garfield, take Tango to Sidewinder, keep all the speed you can and head all the way along the top cat track to Tele Alley. Leave your lamer bros there, and make the quick hike to top of Gunbarrel.
The View from Gunbarrel
While you are catching your breath, check out the old bullwheel for the original rope tow at the top. Believe it or not, Gunbarrel was Monarch’s first run in 1939? Imagine skiing that with leather boots, wooden skis and non-releasing bindings.
Monarch's Original Lift on Gunbarrel
This is a great run all by itself, with steep honest expert terrain. But for the real treat, head down Gunbarrel for about 20 feet, then look for a slot in the left side trees. Head in there, slow down and look for a nice line. There are several great shots here. It might take a few tries to find the sweet route down, but it is worth it.
Monarch extreme snowboard terrain - photo by Brian Chu
Gunbarrel has great north slope snow, which means the snow will be soft even when other parts of the ski area have begun to stiffen or melt. The hike and tight trees means it will often be untracked. Once you find the routes down, don’t tell anyone. This your secret powder stash for late in the day when Picante and Shagnasty are all worked.
