Stretching over 35 rugged miles atop Colorado’s vibrant Monarch Ridge, the Monarch Crest Trail Run near Poncha Springs offers a fierce encounter with wilderness and altitude. Starting at around 10,800 feet and cresting near 12,550 feet, this trail demands stamina and sharp focus as it weaves through expansive alpine tundra, dense spruce forests, and windswept ridgelines. The terrain tests your footing with a mix of well-packed dirt, rocky switchbacks, and occasional snow patches late in the season, challenging runners and hikers alike to move deliberately.

The trail’s spine rides high along the Continental Divide, where the air crispness pushes your lungs harder and the panoramic views reward every step. You'll cross streams that don't just flow—they hum with seasonal urgency, daring you to pause and appreciate their persistent course through the landscape. Forest groves seem to lean in, their towering evergreens whispering ancient secrets while shading the path.

Planning your run here requires respect for the mountain’s rhythm. Hydration is critical; the high elevation accelerates dehydration, so carry at least two liters of water or a reliable hydration system. Footwear with solid traction is a must to handle loose scree and occasional slippery rocks. Timing matters—early summer can still hold snow, while late summer through early fall offers the most stable conditions, avoiding the afternoon thunderstorms that stir after noon.

Starting from the Monarch Ski Area parking lot close to Poncha Springs, the first miles ascend steadily, letting your body gradually acclimate as the landscape opens onto broad views of the Sawatch Range. Cresting the ridge around mile 17 offers a natural checkpoint; the high plains feel fiercely untamed here, demanding respect and rewarding with quiet solitude. You'll share this stretch with hawks and sometimes mountain goats—both keen observers of human visitors.

Expect to spend 6 to 9 hours covering the full route if you run, less if you’re an ultrarunner, more if hiking with breaks. Weather can turn quickly—clouds gathering overhead can thicken without warning, and mountain winds push relentlessly, reminding you this trail lives on nature’s terms. Pack layers, sun protection, and know your limits. Despite the challenge, the trail runs true as a test of endurance and a celebration of Colorado’s high-country spirit.