Conveniently located in Summit County amongst some of the other Vail Resorts, Keystone is possibly the most underrated of these high-class resorts. Though mostly known for the family-friendly atmosphere, the terrain at Keystone also has a very appealing dark side that entices the more serious skiers and boarders. Playing host to the longest ski day in the entire state of Colorado gives Keystone and identity of its own.
Night Skiing
Even after the sun sets over the scenic Rocky Mountains, Keystone leaves its the lights on for guests wanting to take advantage of most skiable trails after dark. Famous for their night skiing, enthusiasts can hit the slopes on any of Keystone’s 15 lighted trails long after the neighboring mountains call it a day. This includes Keystone’s 6 terrain parks and their half-pipe. Enjoy watching the sun disappear, then squeeze in a few more runs and enjoy the serenity of the snow covered range you simply cannot experience during the day.
Thousands of Acres of Terrain
Keystone has an abundance of intermediate and beginner terrain, however, the mountain boasts nearly 1,500 acres which classify as advanced terrain. Novice skiers dare not shy away from attempting to shred the mountain as Keystone has plenty of terrain for beginners, too. Visitors to the mountain who prefer not to test their gravitational limits will find plentiful smooth cruisers and steep groomers. Intermediates are incredibly well-served throughout the entire resort. Take a shot at the Schoolmarm trail which presents 3.5 miles of terrain that may result in some tears inside those goggles.
Beginners may not receive the warm and fuzzy feel of a bunny hill as there is comparatively less terrain devoted to their skill set. That being said, there is plenty of intermediate and well-groomed terrain to gain experience and become comfortable with what the mountain has to offer. With over 1,000 acres devoted to moderate runs, intermediate skiing is more than ample at Keystone.
It is rather ironic that Keystone features so many black diamond runs yet, is best known to be a family friendly mountain. All terrain on the beyond the summit of Dercum Mountain, considered to be advanced terrain. Technically, Keystone doesn’t boast any double black terrain, but expert riders will find plenty of challenges on The Outback Mountain, which features adrenaline pumping runs like the Wolverine and Timberwolf.
A 51
Ranked as second best terrain park in the country, Keystone’s A 51 terrain park is comprised of several different areas that range depending on skill level. Beginners can start out by cruising down Easy Street which is perfect for those who have never encountered a box or rail before. Easy Street eases you into the feeling of your board or skis hitting something other than fresh powder.
There are three intermediate runs to choose from, the I-70, Park Lane, and The Alley. The runs subsequently increase in difficulty with the first jump on the I-70 being very similar to the last run on Easy Street. Once you have mastered the last jump and a few tricks, it’s time to move on to Park Lane where you can hit the quarter pipe and catch significant air time. The Alley is truly a jibber’s amusement park. There is an extraordinary amount of features to execute those tricks you’ve been working so hard to land perfectly.
Main Street, which is home to many pro-level skiers and snowboarders, features Keystone’s largest jump with three sets that are perfect for attempting your version of competition level tricks. With the chairlift audience observing in awe from the sidelines, Main Street certainly provides a professional level atmosphere that most competitors crave.