Cotopaxi Snow-Riders
Welcome to the 2026 Ski Season!
Listed below are the dates and prices for 2026
Welcome to the Cotopaxi Snow-Riders program. The program is designed for anyone 7 and older who would like to have the opportunity to ski or snowboard at Monarch Ski and Snowboard Area for reduced prices. Participants must read this packet carefully and complete all information thoroughly!
Signing Up:
Please select the link above labeled “Monarch Sign Up”. There are further instructions within that document. All participants must fill out a permission slip form (link above) in order to participate and/or ride the bus. I will need to know a week in advance if you or your child will be riding the bus. Lessons are no longer offered via the school program and must be signed up through Monarch. Ages 12 and under must be accompanied by parent/guardian supervision unless the "Without Adult Supervision Form" is fille out.
Transportation
Students, ages 7-18, who will be riding a school bus to the mountain must pay $3.00. Parents of participating students and non-Cotopaxi students utilizing school transportation must pay $5.00 to ride the bus if space is available. Students not taking the bus must ride with their parents or guardians. If a student is not returning home on the bus, a consent form must be signed by the parent, and the driver must be 21 years of age.
Cancellations and Refunds:
If you sign up and pay for a specific Snow-Riders trip and are unable to attend for whatever reason, the money will be held in the individual's Monarch account and can be applied to the next Snow-rider trip ONLY if you cancel 48 hours prior to the trip. All rentals and lessons will be held in the individual’s account as well ONLY if you cancel 48 hours prior to the trip. Please be courteous and notify Ms. Heaven as soon as possible if you cannot go. Especially if you are unable to attend on the morning of the trip and riding the bus, please reach out.
Dress Requirements:
Skiing and snowboarding takes place in outdoor environments at high mountain elevations. Adapting for ever changing conditions can be a challenge. Here are some things to consider in your preparation process: Dress in wool or synthetic layers so you have the option to shed or add clothing as conditions change. Avoid cotton as it gets wet and stays wet. Wear one pair of comfortable wool or wool blend socks. Choose gloves that are made for winter sports. They should have a water-resistant outer shell and light insulating layers inside. Mittens are usually warmer than gloves. Eye protection is necessary. Wear sunglasses for clear sunny days or ski goggles for stormy or low light conditions. Having a stocking cap available for head and ear protection is recommended. Apply sunscreen initially and regularly throughout the day. High altitude rays can find you even on cloudy days. Don’t forget the ears and lips, as they are especially vulnerable. Because Snow-Rider is a school program, all participants must abide by the school dress code.
Helmets:
Most participants in the Snow-Riders program are quickly advancing their skills by experiencing new terrain, jumps and rails. To help ensure the safety of participants, helmets are mandatory for Snow-Rider participants 7-19 years old! Helmets are highly recommended for adults as well. Helmets can be rented through Monarch.
Lunch:
Monarch has three eateries for lunch. A sack lunch is recommended as the Monarch eateries are expensive. Sack lunches should include a well-balanced meal with a lot of water/ liquids and snacks.
Bags/Backpacks:
Make sure you bring a bag or backpack to carry lunches, sunscreen, hats, gloves, goggles, water bottles, and any other appropriate items you feel you might need. To prevent theft, money and valuables need to be kept on you or the bus at all times – do not leave these items in your bag in the lodge.
Extracurricular Code of Conduct/Eligibility:
All middle school and high school students attending the SnowRider trips will be expected to follow the guidelines as stated in the Extracurricular Code of Conduct as well as eligibility requirements for each Snow-Rider trip.
Snow-Rider Gear Library:
We have accepted donations from the community to help any student/kid to experience the joy of snow sports. There is limited gear available for anyone who may need to check out items such as boards, skis, goggles, helmets, boots and layering items.
If you have any questions regarding this program, feel free to email halbrecht@cotopaxire3.org
Thank you for your support of the Snow-Riders Program.
Snow-Ridesr Program Director - Heaven Albrecht