Depending on where you are starting from you do have another choice in getting to Gunnison. IF you are coming from Texas you can turn off I-25 at Walsenburg and take US 160 W. to Monte Vista then take US 285 to Saguache. From Saguache take CO 114 on to US 50 very near Gunnison.
It is probably a bit longer, but Cochetopa (Buffalo) Pass is a relatively easy pass and the drive from the pass on to US 50 is a beautiful canyon drive.
For that matter, Monarch has never been a problem but you do have a choice. I don't think Wolf Creek is in this picture.
