Keystone
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About Keystone
If convenience, affordability and terrain options for every type of skier top your ski vacation docket, then Keystone, Colorado, is it! A Keystone ski vacation truly offers slices of heaven for every single penchant, both on and off the mountain. From tubing to fine dining or quick (and cheap) eats, to après drinks, to world-class cat skiing and perfect family-friendly trails, Keystone has it all.
Keystone is opportunely located just under 100 miles from Denver International Airport, the drive along I-70 takes a little over an hour and a half, so you can easily arrive in the morning and sneak a half-day of skiing in. All the Keystone restaurants are conveniently located in the base village or just across Highway 6. On sunny afternoons, Keystone has a lively après scene, making it a great place to have a beer and mingle.
Keystone Resort has three amazing mountain peaks: Dercum Mountain, North Peak, and The Outback, with over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain. The village at Keystone is lively and surrounded by beautiful nature, offering modern amenities. Whether you're looking for exciting adventures on the slopes, relaxing evenings by the fire, or fun off-mountain activities, Keystone has something for everyone.
5 best things about Keystone according to our Mountain Travel Experts
MOUNTAIN STATS
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Where to stay in Keystone
Keystone Resort Trail Map
Getting to Keystone
Keystone is located just 75 miles west of Denver International Airport (DIA), making it easily accessible. The resort can also be reached by car or shuttle via Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) and Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE).
Getting around
Keystone offers a free shuttle service that runs between the village and the resort, making it easy for visitors to get around without a car. The village is also pedestrian-friendly, with most attractions within walking distance.
Skiing in Keystone
Every level of skier will find their own section of the mountain to call their own. Beginners will love the “learning area” off of the Ranger chairlift, as well as all the green runs off of River Run Gondola. Children of all levels, will squeal with delight in Keystone’s many Kidventure Zones, which are fun, zippy tree trails and mini-themed camps. Intermediate skiers will find they can ski all three of the lift-accessed mountains, but the best blue trails are to be found off of the River Run Gondola, with epic, sustained cruisers like Frenchman and Irishman. Expert skiers and boarders have nearly 50 percent of Keystone’s 3,000 acres to themselves, and can enjoy moguls, glades, steeps and small chutes. Powderhounds will delight in all the snowcat-accessed terrain off of Independence Mountain and Wapiti Peak.
Beginner Skiing in Keystone
Making up 19 percent of 3,148 acres, the Keystone beginner skiing accounts for a nice chunk of the pie. Beginners will find they can get high up on the mountain and enjoy epic views of Keystone’s Independence Mountain, Keystone Peak and Wapiti Peak. Not every resort can offer beginner skiers this kind of high-alpine experience.
Dercum Mountain
Family vacations in Keystone
Keystone is year-in and year-out one of the most popular family ski vacation destinations. The stars align at Keystone. Several different factors combine to make a Keystone family ski vacation one the best in class. Firstly, Keystone is conveniently located just an hour and one-half drive from Denver, making schlepping the kids gear much easier on parents. Secondly, the terrain; Keystone family skiing offers a variety of terrain options so all levels of skiers will find what they’re looking for. Kids will have a blast skiing at the largest night skiing operation in the world. And eating out as a family is easy in Keystone, with numerous family dining options. And last but not least: activities. Adventure Point offers tubing that the whole family can enjoy together.
The resort typically opens in early November and runs through mid-April, with the best snow conditions occurring between January and March.
River Run base area provides the perfect place to find and experience the many things to do in Keystone. Dining and shopping are easily accessed in the River Run base area, but if you’re looking for more you can enjoy a full docket of winter outdoor experiences on your next Keystone ski vacation.
FAQs
Breckenridge and Keystone are both popular ski resorts in Colorado, but they offer distinct experiences. Breckenridge is known for its lively historic town, complete with Victorian architecture, numerous shops and a vibrant après-ski scene. It has diverse terrain across five peaks, catering to all abilities, and is ideal for those seeking a mix of skiing and cultural activities. Keystone, on the other hand, is more family-oriented, with a focus on convenience and value. It features night skiing, a quieter atmosphere and three mountain peaks that offer varied terrain. Keystone is perfect for families and those looking for a more relaxed experience, while Breckenridge caters to visitors who enjoy skiing alongside bustling nightlife and charm.
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