Ski in Keystone, close to some of Colorado’s most wonderful vacation rentals
Nestled in Colorado's majestic Rocky Mountains, Keystone Resort is a beloved destination for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. Spanning 3,149 acres of terrain with 139 trails, 20 lifts, a peak elevation of 12,408 feet, and an average annual snowfall of 235 inches, Keystone offers a perfect blend of adventure and family-friendly fun — and with recent improvements, the resort is considered to be in its prime condition.
Whether you’re into park skiing, chasing powder in the bowls, or taking a laid-back family vacation, Keystone has it all. In the guide below, we'll tell you everything you need to know about skiing in Keystone, CO.
Before we start, a little about us…
At Great Western Lodging, we offer a superior selection of luxury properties, including ski-in/ski-out options and downtown lodgings, some of which are pet-friendly. In our destination blog, we've covered extensive information about Keystone, Silverthorne, Dillon, and Frisco and their surroundings. And soon enough, more interesting content awaits you with great tips to make your travel experience even better.
Now, get ready to uncover all the essential details about Keystone and why it’s a must-visit destination for your next ski adventure!
History of Keystone
Keystone Resort was founded in 1970 by Max and Edna Dercum, who purchased land in the Snake River Valley of the White River National Forest for its excellent snow conditions. Keystone pioneered night skiing in 1985, becoming one of the few Colorado resorts to offer evening skiing.
Now part of Vail Resorts, Keystone has grown into a world-class destination known for its top-tier facilities and family-friendly atmosphere.
What to Expect at Keystone
Keystone Ski Resort is conveniently located about 35 minutes from Breckenridge and 75 miles west of Denver, making it accessible for day trips or weekend getaways. With over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain across three distinct peaks—Dercum Mountain, North Peak, and The Outback — Keystone provides terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
While it’s not as massive as Whistler or Steamboat, Keystone is incredibly well-organized and offers a friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a first-timer, navigating the resort is simple, thanks to its accessible lifts and thoughtfully designed runs.
Unique Attractions
Keystone boasts the A51 Terrain Park, one of the top-rated parks in North America, offering features for all skill levels. Besides, night skiing is a unique feature of Keystone, allowing visitors to extend their time on the slopes well into the evening. With the new Bergman Express Lift debuting for the 2023/24 season, access to 16 new trails and over 500 acres of high alpine terrain makes this season even more exciting.
Terrain Variety for Every Skill Level
Keystone's terrain caters to all abilities, with 12% of its runs classified as beginner, 39% as intermediate, and 49% as advanced or expert.
Dercum Mountain
This is Keystone’s front-side mountain, ideal for beginners and intermediates. Schoolmarm, one of the longest green runs in Colorado, is a gentle and wide trail perfect for building confidence. Other beginner-friendly trails include Silver Spoon and Ten Mile, both offering smooth descents and scenic views.
North Peak
This area is geared toward intermediate and advanced skiers, offering a mix of groomed runs and more challenging terrain. Trails like Mozart and those on the western side of Dercum Mountain offer wide, cruisy blue runs that are perfect for intermediates advancing their skills.
The Outback
The Outback is a paradise for advanced skiers and snowboarders, featuring ungroomed terrain, steep pitches, and some of the best tree skiing in Colorado. Trails like The Grizz and Timberwolf are favorites for powder lovers, while the bowls provide a backcountry feel within the resort's boundaries.
Crowds and Accessibility
Keystone's proximity to Denver makes it a popular choice for locals, especially on weekends. As a result, lift lines can get long during peak periods. To avoid crowds, try to visit midweek or early in the season.
Despite the weekend crowds, Keystone remains a favorite for tourists because of its accessibility. It’s only about a 90-minute drive from Denver International Airport, and being part of the Epic Pass program makes it an attractive option for skiers who want to visit multiple resorts in the area.
Night Skiing
One of the standout features at Keystone is its night skiing—a rarity in Colorado. Night skiing runs until 8 PM on select trails, allowing visitors to ski or snowboard under the stars. The atmosphere at night is quieter, and the slopes are less crowded, offering a unique and magical experience. While not all runs are open for night skiing, the available terrain is enough to satisfy those looking for extra time on the mountain.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Keystone is a family haven. From the Kidtopia program, which offers free activities for children, to the Camp Keystone ski school, the resort is a top choice for families with young kids. Kidtopia activities include parades, snow forts, and scavenger hunts, ensuring there's plenty to do off the slopes as well.
Beginner areas are easily accessible, located right at the top of the mountain. This allows families and beginners to enjoy the experience of skiing at altitude while staying in a safe and comfortable environment.
Epic Pass
The Epic Pass, offered by Vail Resorts, grants access to multiple ski resorts, including Keystone. It provides unlimited skiing at several top resorts like Breckenridge and Vail, with different pass options tailored to various skiing frequencies and budgets. For frequent skiers, it offers significant savings compared to individual day tickets. Epic Pass holders also enjoy perks like discounts on lodging, dining, and rentals. Some passes include access to international partner resorts, offering great flexibility. Early purchases, often in spring, come with discounted rates, making the Epic Pass a cost-effective option for those planning multiple trips to Keystone and beyond.
Heads up: Borrowing or using someone else’s pass is highly discouraged. Keystone and Vail Resorts have strict policies, and those caught using another person's pass can face serious consequences, including being banned from the resort.
Parking Tips and Getting Around
Parking at Keystone is free, which is always a nice perk. The River Run lot is the most popular parking spot, but it fills up quickly, especially on weekends. To secure a spot, aim to arrive before 8 AM. If the River Run lot is full, Keystone provides overflow parking with a convenient shuttle service that takes you straight to the base of the mountain.
Pro Tips for Parking
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Use the River Run Lot if you arrive early.
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Overflow parking is easily accessible, and the shuttle service is quick and reliable.
Best Time to Visit Keystone
Keystone’s ski season typically runs from early November through mid-April. The best time to visit for ideal snow conditions is between mid-December and mid-March, with January and February being the prime months for fresh powder. However, for those looking to avoid crowds, early season (November) and late season (April) are also great options, especially since Keystone has excellent snowmaking capabilities.
April Skiing Conditions
April skiing at Keystone can be surprisingly good. The snow tends to hold up well, especially at higher elevations like Montezuma Bowl. While the base may experience warmer temperatures, staying higher up on the mountain will help you avoid slushy conditions.
Ski School and Lessons
Keystone’s ski school is top-notch, offering group lessons for all ages and skill levels, as well as private lessons for more personalized attention. Parents rave about Camp Keystone, where instructors are known for their patience and ability to make skiing fun for kids. The resort also offers specialized clinics, including women-only classes and adaptive skiing lessons.
Rentals and Equipment
Keystone has several on-site rental shops at River Run Village and the Mountain House base, making it easy to rent gear before hitting the slopes. To avoid long lines, especially on busy weekends, it’s recommended to book your rentals online in advance. You’ll often find better prices this way, and you can even reserve demo equipment if you want to try the latest gear.
Dining and Après-Ski
Keystone has a variety of dining options, from casual to fine dining. Here are some tips:
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For an unforgettable experience, head to Alpenglow Stube, located at 11,444 feet. This fine-dining restaurant offers stunning views and a gourmet menu, perfect for celebrating a special occasion.
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Another great option is Der Fondue Chessel, where you can enjoy a lively fondue dinner with live music.
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For a more casual vibe, check out 9280’ Tap House in River Run Village for après-ski drinks.
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Locals also recommend Goat Soup & Whiskey Tavern for a laid-back atmosphere and hearty meals.
If you're staying in nearby Dillon or Silverthorne, you’ll find even more dining and nightlife options to explore.
On-Site Activities Beyond Skiing
While snow tubing and ice skating are popular, Keystone offers a variety of other exciting activities for visitors:
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Snowcat Tours: Explore untouched terrain with guided snowcat tours, taking you to high-alpine bowls for breathtaking views and powder skiing.
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Nordic Skiing & Snowshoeing: For a more relaxed adventure, Keystone’s Nordic Center offers groomed trails perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
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Spa & Wellness: After a day on the slopes, unwind at one of Keystone’s spa options, like the Keystone Lodge & Spa, which offers massages and other wellness treatments.
Sustainability Efforts
Keystone is committed to sustainability through Vail Resorts' Epic Promise initiative:
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Energy Efficiency: Keystone is reducing its environmental impact by investing in energy-efficient snowmaking and lift systems.
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Waste Reduction: Through the Zero Waste Initiative, Keystone aims to divert waste from landfills and enhance recycling efforts throughout the resort.
More than Just Skiing
Keystone isn’t just for skiers and snowboarders. There are plenty of activities for non-skiers or those looking to take a break from the slopes. Families will love the multi-lane snow tubing hill, while ice skating on the 5-acre Keystone Lake provides a picturesque setting for winter fun.
If you’re looking for something more serene, Keystone offers scenic sleigh rides and snowshoeing tours, allowing you to explore the beauty of the Rockies at a slower pace.
Final Tips for First-Time Visitors
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Layer up: The high altitude means temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day. Dress in layers and make sure your outerwear is waterproof.
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Acclimate to the altitude: Keystone’s base sits at nearly 10,000 feet. To avoid altitude sickness, take it easy on your first day and stay hydrated.
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Ski smart: Always ski with a partner and keep an eye on changing weather conditions.
Where to Stay Near Keystone
At Great Western Lodging, we offer a superior selection of luxury properties, ski-in/ski-out options, and downtown lodgings, some of which are pet-friendly, in both towns and in other areas near the resort. Staying in one of our properties, we guarantee you'll have nothing less than a 5-star experience during your trip to Colorado.