There are some very Beautiful areas around the pass, and Gunnison. Very laid back adventure. It is a little bit furtherto go to Colorado Springs, but I do not like I-70 and I would recommend this route anytime to travelers. It is not that much more time in real time and the drive it much more Beautiful.
There is a scenic tramway at the summit of this pass on U.S. 50, and a store that has some interesting mountain merchandise along with a lot of standard touristy stuff (and restrooms; that's great in a state whose major roads are notoriously lacking in them). However, if you are looking for mountain scenery, this is not the best place for it -- don't make a special trip to see this spot. The views on the west side of the pass are better than on the east.
Can't say much more than the title says. If you're traveling in winter, be careful. Many spots on the pass don't have guard rails and the road can become quite snowy and icy.
Beautiful views from the top, take a Gandola ride (optional) to the top and there is a 10$ fees but its worth it for the views.
We have traveled over Monarch pass many times heading to Gunnison and Crested Butte, cross country skiing on the old trail and even mountain biking on the Monarch trail on the south side of the freeway all the way back to Salida. It starts near the top of the pass which looks like an old ski resort, and goes over the mountains on I believe the highest trail in the country. It is beautiful with amazing views. I have also seen a lot of people snow mobiling. There is so much to do and see as you traverse the high elevations feeling like you are on top of the world! I think the pass is wonderful for both summer and winter, but make sure you are prepared for the weather either way. Thunderstorms in the summer and snow in the winter could you leave you stranded in a pinch.
We crossed Monarch Pass on 9-15-14 traveling west from Salida. I was rather surprised to discover we had climbed to 11,312 feet! I did not notice if there were any places to pull over and there really was no scenic view that I recall. I do know, however, that the fall color was beautiful.
11,312 ft, Continental Divide, pine trees, snow, clear blue skies...beautiful. Gift shop a nice stop for souvenirs with helpful, friendly staff.
Convenient for a leg stretch break on Rt.50 but take just a little time to ride the tram to the top. $10 adult, $5 for under 12. Kids will love the tram ride and the view from the top is really worth it. Bring your camera. Well stocked gift shop with a welcome snack bar to fuel up your stomach for the rest of the drive. 10yr old granddaughter loved the little bit of snow up top in mid July.
Drove up at night to view the full moon...since we were only 6 miles away it didn't take long, we were so tired from our hike up Mt. Shavano it was kind of anti climactic!
I have had many harrowing trips over Monarch Pass in the winter, but in the summer it is easy to drive and beautiful. This was the first trip that I made time for the tram ride to the top. It was definitely worth it and a fun, but fairly quick activity for anyone traveling with kids. The trams are fully closed in with a locked door- no chance of anyone falling out or getting hurt. The views at the top are spectacular and, yes, there were still a few spots of snow in July.