FIRST TIMER'S GUIDE TO KEYSTONE

We can't wait to meet you. To ensure you have a fun-filled and worry-free getaway, follow the insider tips below.
Snowboarders, Keystone, Colorado

About Keystone

We are located in Summit County, Colorado, which is just a short, scenic drive from Denver. Whether you’re a family with kids or just a kid at heart, this laid-back mountain playground will make you feel right at home.

Keystone Resort offers a large variety of fun outdoor activities and adventures, comfortable lodging accommodations and award-winning dining—all right here in the breathtaking Rocky Mountains.

Kids by the ice skating rink, Keystone, Colorado

WHERE TO STAY

Whether you want a traditional hotel room or a multi-bedroom condo for your entire family, Keystone offers lodging accommodations for groups and budgets of all sizes.

To call dibs on your home away from home, book a reservation today. Be sure to start exploring the resort and familiarize yourself with all our lodging options in the meantime.

Explore Mountain Lodging

WHAT TO BRING & WEAR

First Timer's Guide to Keystone Ski Resort, Colorado

Weather in the mountains is unpredictable. Quick drops in temperature are possible. Weather moves fast and furious. The first rule of thumb is to respect the mountains. Mother Nature is in command, and while we love playing in the snow, it's also important to pay attention to signs of inclement weather.

To make sure your family is prepared for anything and everything, here's a general check-list of things to pack:

During Winter

  •  Layers. Start with a fitted, breathable, non-cotton base layer, then build outward and top it off with a fleece that can be worn under a waterproof shell.
  • Waterproof or water-resistant snow pants and jackets.
  • Waterproof mittens or gloves, glove liners, hats, and neck gators or scarves. On snow days you'll definitely want a way to cover your entire face while skiing or riding down the mountain.
  • Helmets (if you're not renting a helmet along with other equipment). For safety, Keystone encourages guests to wear helmets at all times while participating in snow sports. Regardless of whether or not you choose to wear a helmet, every winter sport participant shares responsibility for his or her safety.
  • Lots of socks. We recommend two pairs per day, one for on-mountain activities and another for off-mountain.
  • Snow boots and comfortable walking shoes with quality tread.
  • Eye protection. Don't overlook protecting your eyes from the sun, snow-glare and the elements. Goggles and sunglasses are a must for the entire family.
  • Supergoop! sunscreen and lip balm. Colorado has more than 300 days of sunshine a year, and at 9,000 feet, you'll definitely want to apply SPF 30 or higher before enjoying your time outdoors.
  • A small backpack that can be left in a locker during the day, or be worn by a family member to hold water, sunscreen and other daily must-haves. Also, Nature Valley snacks to help avoid a mid-day meltdown (for parents and kiddos)

Evening Attire

  • Relax and feel free to leave the black tie and tiaras at home. There aren't any restaurants in Keystone where jeans, sweaters and general casual wear are considered inappropriate attire for dinner.
Want to make it easy? Check out our Gear Guide to choose your gear like a pro. 
Supergoop and Family

Protect Your Skin

Sun  protection  isn’t  just  for  vacation.  90%  of  skin  aging  is  caused  by  daily  sun  exposure.  When  it  comes  to  sun  protection,  most  people  tend  to  think  only  about  sunburns,  which  are  caused  by  UVB(urning)  rays.  But  UVA(ging)  rays  enter  the  skin’s  surface  even  deeper,  leading  to  signs  of  aging  and  are  the  major  culprits  in  skin  cancer.  The  good  news,  Broad  Spectrum  Sunscreen  protects  against  both  UVA(ging)  and  UVB(urning)  rays.  The  great  news,  all  of  Supergoop’s  products are  Broad  Spectrum,  and  protect  against  Infrared  rays  too.  Protect  yourself.  Every.  Single.  Day.™

Supergoop!  Sun  101

Stay Fueled

At Keystone there are lots of on-the-go activities and you shouldn’t let hunger slow you down. While on the mountain, make sure to pack lots of portable snacks like Nature Valley bars. Real ingredients like 100% whole grain oats, wholesome nuts and real fruit will give you energy and keep you full for all your outdoor activities.

Learn more about Nature Valley.

Hydration Station

Hydration is the best way to help your body adjust to Keystone’s 9,280’ elevation. Generally the low humidity at altitude keeps the air dry, so fill up on twice as much water or Gatorade as you would at home.

Family in Village

Weather in the mountains is unpredictable. Even during the summer months, quick drops in temperature are possible. Weather moves fast and furious. The first rule of thumb is to respect the mountains. Mother Nature is in command, and while we love playing here, it's also important to pay attention to signs of inclement weather.

To make sure your family is prepared for anything and everything, here's a general check-list of things to pack:

During Summer

  •  Layers. You can experience a variety of weather conditions in a single day in Colorado.
  • A rain jacket. We recommend carrying it with you at all times during your stay, in case of afternoon rainstorms.
  • Active wear to enjoy the variety of outdoor activities offered in the area.
  • Shorts and T-shirts.
  • Jeans or other long pants.
  • Long-sleeved shirts.
  • Sweatshirts or a fleece.
  • Lots of socks.
  • A small backpack to hold water, sunscreen and other daily must-haves. Also,  Nature Valley snacks to help avoid a mid-day meltdown (for parents and kiddos).
  • Eye protection. Sunglasses are a must for the entire family.
  • Supergoop! sunscreen and lip balm. Colorado has more than 300 days of sunshine a year, and at 9,000 feet, you'll definitely want to apply SPF 30 or higher before enjoying your time outdoors.

Evening Attire

  •  Relax and feel free to leave the black tie and tiaras at home. There aren't any restaurants in Keystone where jeans, sweaters and general casual wear are considered inappropriate attire for dinner.
Want to make it easy? Check out our Summer Gear Guide to choose your gear like a pro.

WINTER FUN ON MOUNTAIN

First Timer's Guide to Keystone Ski Resort, Colorado

We all learn to walk before we run, and on the mountain, everyone needs to have a first-time experience before they can master the hill. These first experiences are special and can define one's relationship with the mountain for years to come.

While this may be your first time at Keystone, we know it doesn't necessarily mean you're a beginner. But if you are, just follow this guide to find exactly what it will take to have an epic first-time experience.

Keystone Ski & Snowboard School

When you’re learning how to ski and snowboard, it's best to get pointers from the best of the best. Our professional instructors are world-class snow pros who know just the right moves to help you master the sport. In addition, with our EpicMix Academy, you can track your progress throughout the day and season.

Be sure to check out our family private lessons—a unique opportunity to grow skills and share lasting memories with those who matter most. The family that learns together, stays together.

Family Ski Trail

Schoolmarm, our family ski trail, is full of fun features for kids and beginners. It's where kids have the space and comfort to go their own speed and play on our signature terrain features such as Tornado Alley and Rockin' Rollers. Access Schoolmarm from the River Run gondola or Summit Express lift from the Village base area, or via the Peru lift from Mountain House. Warm up lapping the Montezuma 6-Pack lift before tackling all 3.5 miles of top-to-bottom Schoolmarm fun.

Adventure Point

When you need to take a break from making turns, check-out a different kind of fun, found only at Adventure Point. Our Kidtopia Snow Fort is perfect for exploring, and the tubing hill gets you off your feet while still being able to experience the thrill of flying down a mountain.

Night Skiing

After you’ve gotten a few runs under your belt, you may want to try something new. Night skiing is a one-of-a-kind experience for all levels, with plenty of trails for beginners. And the best part is, guests who are lodging with Keystone Resort Hospitality receive one free night of arrival lift tickets (dependent on operating schedule)

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In-resort Transportation 

Whether you're traveling by plane, train or automobile, once you've arrived at Keystone we strongly encourage the use of our FREE in-resort transportation system. Heading to the mountain? We have you covered with access to all open base areas. Ready for dinner? We service both Village areas and much of the Hwy 6 corridor with easy access to award-winning dining across the resort. Visit the In-Resort Transportation link on our Guest Services page learn more about our seasonal schedule. Bus stops are conveniently located within a short walk of most Keystone Resort accommodations. 

Check-In Information

Going Into Village

For your convenience, we have a variety of check-in locations around Keystone. Any of these locations can assist you, and if you are checking in after-hours, please utilize the 24-hour Keystone Lodge and Spa front desk.

Get Directions

Keystone Guest Reception Center

21996 U.S. Highway 6
Keystone, CO 80435

Guest Services phone number: 970.496.4000

This reception center accommodates check-in for all condominium properties and is most convenient for: East Keystone, Mountain House, Lakeside Village, North Keystone and West Keystone.

If you are arriving between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m., please check-in at the Keystone Lodge & Spa.

Keystone Lodge & Spa

2101 U.S. Highway 6
Keystone, CO 80435

Direct phone number: 970.496.3712

Keystone Lodge and Spa is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week

River Run Front Desk

100 Dercum Square
Keystone, CO 80435

Guest Services phone number: 970.496.4000

This reception center accommodates check-in for all condominium properties and is most convenient for: River Run, Mountain House and East Keystone.

*Please Note: the River Run front desk has limited hours in the summer and throughout our quieter spring and fall seasons.

If you have any questions about where to check-in, please call Guest Services at 970.496.4000

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