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Okay, the best expert skiing is really at Mirkwood, 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 ChuGunbarrel has great north slope snow, which means it 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. |
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We think the best Expert Snowboard Runs at Monarch are Examiner and Ajax. Both are steep, with some friendly bumps in the middle, and reliable soft snow around the edges. Follow the Garfield lift line down for steep bumpy terrain, or head a little to the right (skier's right while facing downhill) for nice loose trees that almost always have powder or good chop. Go a bit further to the right and hit Ajax for a little friendlier angle and easier lines. A nice side benefit is that you get to show off for the people on the lift! Monarch Black Run - Examiner - photo by Brian Chu If it turns out that Examiner is not really to your taste, you can escape to the left onto Lower No Name. A great intermediate run that most people never ski. Another great area to explore at Monarch is the Outback bowl off of Breezeway. Good skiing and riding, usually with lots of great snow. But, a long flat section at the top makes it a little less fun to get to on a snowboard. But, it is worth it! |
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