As the largest ski resort in Summit County, Keystone Resort has made a name for itself as one of the go-to ski and ride spots in Colorado.
Keystone Resort – Slope to Slope
Keystone consists of three mountains—Dercum, North Peak and The Outback—with over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain and a 3,128-foot vertical. The resort has 135 trails that fit every skill level, with about 19% beginner, 32% intermediate and 49% expert.
The mountains are served by 20 lifts, including a state-of-the-art, eight-passenger gondola that takes you from River Run Village up to the top of Dercum, home of long green and blue runs and perfect groomers great for cruising. It also houses the A51 Terrain Park for those daring individuals willing to show off their skills. North Peak allows you to test your skills with a variety of blues and blacks and plenty of moguls. The Outback, the tallest of the three mountains, is designed for intermediate and expert skiers and riders. It also features some of Colorado’s best tree skiing on the North and South Bowls.
New to Keystone this year is a family-focused ski hill called Schoolyard. Carved out of a portion of the resort’s longest run, Schoolmarm, the new ski hill is perfect for families with young children, as well as beginner skiers and riders. The trail has special features, such as tornado alley, magic moguls and rockin’ rollers, designed to help guests learn how to turn down, maneuver and attack the various terrains of Keystone.
For guests looking for something really special, there’s Cat Skiing and Riding. Groups can sign up for one of two daily tours, complete with a personal guide, free powder ski rentals and a complimentary gourmet lunch, not to mention access to some great back country terrain.
For those interested in activities other than skiing and snowboarding, why not try snow tubing at Adventure Point or ice skating and hockey at Keystone Lake.
If you don’t get enough action during the day, you can keep going after the sun goes down. Keystone offers night skiing on the front side of Dercum Mountain, with runs open as late as 8:30 pm.
Keystone Resort – Accommodations
Keystone has a wide array of lodging options for groups and families of all sizes. Bring the kids to The Springs in River Run Village, which includes a playroom and media center, movie theater, a heated pool with a slide, and adults-only hot tubs where parents can relax. Groups will feel right at home at the Red Hawk Townhomes, featuring spacious rooms, full amenities, high-quality kitchens, a heated pool and fitness center.
Over in the Mountain House neighborhood, there are even more options, including Gateway Mountain Lodge, The Inn at Keystone and Ironwood Townhomes, to name a few.
All of Keystone’s lodging options are either ski in/ski out properties, or are within walking distance of the ski lifts, making it super convenient for guests. Also, some of Keystone’s best dining, shopping and nightlife is just steps from most accommodations, so you can easily enjoy everything the resort has to offer on and off the slopes.
And here’s a bonus. Keystone is bringing back its Kids Ski Free deal. When you stay two nights at any of Keystone’s properties, kids 12 and under ski and ride free
Keystone Resort – Activities & Entertainment
Keystone is constantly abuzz with activity, from film nights and concerts to carnivals and parades. It is also home to world-class dining, independent and brand-name retail shops, and relaxing spas and salons. There is no end to what you can do in Keystone.
Starting in December, Keystone kicks off its Kidtopia celebrations, with the opening of its snow fort on top of Dercum Mountain and a fireworks display. Every day during the season, families can take part in a number of activities, like cookie decorating, parades and more.
For something a little more grown up, there’s Savor the Slopes, a month-long culinary event showcasing all the restaurants in the area, as well as wine and beer tasting and cooking themes to satisfy every taste.
If you’re in the mood for something more low-key and casual, check out any of Keystone’s unique dining options. Take an evening gondola ride up to North Peak for a fondue party at Der Fondue Chessel or head over to 9280’ for an après-ski happy hour.
By Vanessa Day
