Keystone Know-It-All: 20+ Fun Facts to Impress Your Friends
Nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Keystone is a premier mountain destination known for its breathtaking alpine scenery, world-class skiing, and year-round outdoor adventures. This stunning resort offers more than just snowy slopes—it’s a paradise for adventurers, whether you’re seeking thrills on the mountains or relaxation in the serene surroundings.
Keystone has earned its place in Colorado’s rich history and outdoor culture, attracting visitors from all over the world. From its Olympic roots to its status as one of the top night skiing destinations, Keystone is filled with fascinating stories and fun facts that only the most seasoned locals know.
Curious about Keystone’s hidden gems and unique history? This blog will dive into some of the most interesting trivia about the resort. By the end, you’ll impress everyone on your next mountain trip with your newfound knowledge of Keystone’s quirks and charm.
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 and its surroundings. And soon enough, more interesting content awaits you with great tips to make your travel experience even better.
Ready for some extra knowledge of this mountain haven? Let’s dive into some Keystone trivia!
Fun Facts & Interesting Facts About Keystone Resort & Its Surroundings
1. Olympic Origins
In 1970, Max Dercum, a former Olympic skier, decided to create a skier's paradise, and that vision became Keystone Resort. With a passion for the sport, he carved out this winter wonderland in the Colorado Rockies. Dercum’s Olympic-level expertise ensured that Keystone became not just a ski resort, but a destination that catered to everyone, from beginners to seasoned pros.
2. Three Mountains, One Epic Adventure
Keystone’s vast terrain stretches across three majestic mountains—Dercum Mountain, North Peak, and The Outback. Each mountain offers its own unique set of challenges and thrills, allowing skiers and snowboarders to experience a wide range of slopes.
3. 3,000 Acres of Skiable Bliss
With over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, Keystone gives you plenty of room to explore. From powder-filled bowls to groomed trails, this resort offers terrain that caters to all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
4. The Largest Night Skiing in Colorado
When the sun sets, Keystone's slopes come alive. As the home of the largest night skiing operation in Colorado, the resort offers a rare opportunity to ski under the stars. It’s perfect for those who can’t get enough of the slopes during the day and want to squeeze in a few more runs after dark.
5. Sky-High Summit at 12,408 Feet
At a breathtaking 12,408 feet above sea level, Keystone's summit is not only about skiing—it’s about the views and the sheer sense of being on top of the world. The high elevation also provides access to pristine snow conditions, often staying fresh even when other resorts are winding down for the season.
6. Colorado's Biggest Snow Tubing Hill
Keystone isn’t just for skiers. The resort boasts Colorado’s largest snow tubing hill, which features multiple lanes and a convenient conveyor lift to get you to the top. It’s a perfect option for non-skiers or anyone looking to mix up their mountain fun with some high-speed tubing thrills.
7. Golf Courses on a Ski Resort? Yes, Please!
When the snow melts, Keystone transforms into a golfer’s paradise. With two 18-hole championship golf courses — Keystone Ranch and The River Course — you can enjoy a round in the stunning Rocky Mountain setting. These courses offer challenging layouts and breathtaking views, making Keystone a year-round destination.
8. Skate in Style on Keystone Lake
If you’re a fan of ice skating, Keystone Lake is the ultimate rink. This massive outdoor rink is the largest Zamboni-maintained rink in North America, offering skaters a beautifully smooth surface to glide across. It's like the red carpet of ice skating, thanks to the magical Zamboni machine that smooths the ice to perfection.
9. Bluegrass & Beer
Every year, Keystone’s Bluegrass and Beer Festival brings together craft brews and lively bluegrass tunes for a weekend of fun. Sip on some of the best local beers while enjoying live music in the crisp mountain air. It’s an annual tradition that combines Keystone’s laid-back vibe with the excitement of a good ol' party.
10. A51 Terrain Park: Top Ranked for a Reason
For those looking to take their freestyle game to the next level, Keystone’s A51 Terrain Park is the place to be. Consistently ranked among the top terrain parks in North America, A51 features jumps, rails, and features for all skill levels. It’s a playground for anyone wanting to show off their tricks—or maybe just practice falling gracefully.
11. Explore the Backcountry with Cat Skiing
If you’re seeking adventure beyond the lifts, Keystone’s cat skiing tours offer an unforgettable way to experience backcountry skiing. Hop in a snowcat and head into untouched powder for some thrilling runs far from the resort’s groomed trails. It’s the perfect way to escape the crowds and experience true wilderness.
12. 100 Miles of Summer Biking Trails
When the snow melts, Keystone turns into a mountain biker’s paradise with over 100 miles of trails. From beginner-friendly paths to adrenaline-pumping downhill tracks, there’s a trail for everyone. It’s the perfect summer escape for those who crave outdoor adventure year-round.
13. The Snowboarder’s Starting Point
Keystone was one of the first resorts to adopt Burton’s Learn to Ride program, making it a great place for aspiring snowboarders to get started. This program is designed to make learning easy and fun, with expert instructors guiding beginners through every step. It's where many now-pro riders first learned to shred.
14. Learning Beyond the Classroom
Founded in 1976, the Keystone Science School offers year-round science education programs. From summer camps to winter workshops, the school provides hands-on learning experiences in the stunning natural surroundings of the Rocky Mountains. It’s an inspiring way to mix education with outdoor fun.
15. Snow Forts Fit for a King
Every winter, Keystone builds two enormous snow forts, turning the mountain into a frozen fantasy land. Whether you’re launching a snowball fight or just exploring the icy castles, these forts add an extra layer of winter magic to your trip.
16. Gondola Rides with a View
Keystone’s scenic gondola rides aren’t just for skiers. Take a ride to the top of Dercum Mountain and enjoy jaw-dropping views of the surrounding peaks, whether it’s summer or winter. It’s a peaceful way to take in the beauty of the Rockies from above.
17. Keystone's Event Hub
Keystone’s River Run Village is the heart of the resort’s social scene, hosting numerous festivals, concerts, and events throughout the year. From food festivals to outdoor concerts, there’s always something happening to keep the energy alive.
18. 60 Kilometers of Serenity
For those who prefer a quieter, more peaceful winter experience, Keystone offers over 60 kilometers of groomed Nordic skiing trails. Glide through the serene, snow-covered forests and take in the tranquil beauty of the Rockies at your own pace.
19. The Epic Pass
Keystone is part of the Epic Pass system, which means when you buy a pass, you’re not just skiing Keystone—you get access to a whole collection of world-class resorts. It’s a great way to expand your skiing horizons without breaking the bank.
20. North America's Highest Gourmet Restaurant
For an unforgettable dining experience, visit Alpenglow Stube. Perched at over 11,000 feet, this AAA Four-Diamond restaurant is the highest in North America. That means you can relax after a day on the slopes or enjoy a romantic evening with stunning views and top-notch cuisine that make it truly special.
21. Long Ski Seasons
Keystone boasts one of the longest ski seasons in Colorado, with slopes staying open from early November to mid-April. That means more time to perfect your technique, enjoy après-ski, and take in the mountain views! What more could you ask for?
22. Snowmaking for Guaranteed Fun
Keystone ensures consistent conditions with snow making capabilities that cover over 660 acres. Even if nature doesn’t provide, Keystone guarantees you’ll still have plenty of fresh snow to enjoy.
23. Easy Mountain Getaway
Just 90 miles west of Denver, Keystone offers the perfect spot for a quick mountain retreat. From skiing in the winter to hiking in the summer, its close proximity to the city ensures an easy and accessible adventure.
24. Bavarian Charm at Der Fondue Chessel
For a truly unique dining experience, visit Der Fondue Chessel. This Bavarian-themed restaurant offers a cozy, alpine atmosphere, complete with cheese and chocolate fondue. It's the perfect way to unwind after a day on the slopes, with hearty food and a touch of European charm.
How can you make your trip to Keystone, CO even better?
While in town, it's a great idea to stay in style with the breathtaking backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. 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.
Staying in one of our properties, we guarantee you'll have nothing less than a 5-star experience during your trip to Keystone.