Crest Bowl

Type: Backcountry or Sidecountry

An easily lap-able bowl off of Monarch Pass.

Trailhead: .15 miles west of parking lot
Travel Time: 20-40 minutes
Average Slope Angle: 35-40
Aspect: Southeast through South

Located just off the summit of the pass on the north side, this small zone packs a punch with terrain options. If you are looking to make quick laps on variable terrain in the 35-degree area, this is the spot. You can find everything from steep trees, open faces, and even cliff drops and a small pillow line.

This spot is frequently overlooked by most users due to its proximity and short runs, but don't let that fool you. The zone tends to get slightly wind loaded so keep that in mind when skiing the terrain. You have a few options here for the skin track. Majority of the time, the skin track stays low on the bench following the Continental Divide Trail to the summit of the ridge. Other times, you can find a track slightly higher that side hills halfway up the shorter eastern end shots. Either way, get ready for a few kick turns here and there.