The ski area begins operations during the fall to prepare the slopes and trails for opening. Activities may include trail work, equipment across runs, snowmaking in progress, snowmobile use and snowcat operations. The work taking place makes it unsafe for public and even impassable at times for skiers or hikers. Uphill access may not be allowed on trails during mountain winter or summer preparation. Keystone Ski Resort will open trails when operations are compete, which could extend beyond the ski area opening or until the resort has adequate terrain to safely permit these activities. Area in which preparation activities are taking place may be closed from the bottom of Keystone Ski Resort trails, in these cases, “CLOSED” signs will be placed at the bottom of the closed area to inform those hiking uphill of the closure. When such closures are in place, only authorized personnel are permitted in the area. When such closures are in place, you must select an appropriate alternate route.
Keystone Ski Patrol recommends that skiers and snowboarders call in advance to check on current conditions and safety precautions. At all times, Keystone Ski Patrol urges the public to adhere to all closure signage and instructions by Keystone Ski Patrol. Violations are enforced by Keystone Ski Patrol and Keystone Emergency Services.
Snowshoeing, Skiing, Mountain Biking or Hiking Uphill (when lifts are closed)
People travelling uphill are bound by YOUR RESPONSIBILITY CODE and the Colorado Ski Safety Act. You must not impede or obstruct ski area operations at any time. Using a ski area for any purpose can be hazardous and you assume all risks. When engaged in any of these activities you should:
- Stay off of all posted CLOSED trails
- Abide by all posted signs, including all closed signs
- Stay toward the middle of trail going uphill and downhill
- It is your responsibility to make yourself visible to approaching snowmobiles or snow cats (especially when it is dark or twilight)
- Wear reflective clothing; it helps make you more visible
- Wear a headlamp or carry a flashlight (when it is dark or twilight)
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Call 970-496-4033 for uphill access information and visit the Terrain and Lift Status section of the website for individual trail status information.
- Snow cat winch operations may be in progress. Signs will placed at the top, bottom & at all entrances to any trail with an active winch cat. Please stay clear and avoid these areas altogether
- No dogs, other than service animals, are allowed on the slopes at any time
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No travel on Hiking Access terrain before operating hours.
When ski area lifts are open to the public – uphill access is prohibited. Uphill access, skiers, snowboarders and guests should plan to be heading down the trails so they are off the trails when the chairlifts / gondolas open to the public (i.e., start down by 8:30 a.m. and be off the trails when the chairlifts open to the public at 9 a.m., start down by 8:00 a.m. and be off the trails when the chairlifts open to the public at 8:30 a.m., etc.). Early morning uphill access guests may park in the River Run Gondola Lot (formerly Montezuma) for free. At Mountain House, early morning uphill access guests may park at the Porcupine Lot for free (until paid parking starts in the AM). Other restrictions may exist from time to time.
The rules are for your safety and the safety of the employees at the ski resort. Please respect these rules so we can continue to offer uphill travel as an option. Any violations of these rules may result in suspension of lift privileges or prosecution for a criminal offense. Please contact ski patrol with any questions.
Year-round Mountain Operations
Be aware that roads and trails on Keystone Mountain may be used for many purposes and major improvements and repairs are ongoing. You may encounter vehicles on any trail. Be very cautious and yield the right-of-way. Additionally, obey all warning and trail closures.
Vehicles
In accordance with USFS Supervisor’s closure, no vehicles are permitted on Keystone Mountain without specific authorization from Keystone Resort. Keystone Gulch road will close annually on November 23rd.
Sliding Devices
Use of sliding devices, including but not limited to, sleds, towers pads, plastic sheets or plastic disks and the like are strictly prohibited unless their use is specifically approved by Keystone Resort and conducted in a supervised and designated area.
Mountain Bikes
During the winter operating season, the use of mountain bikes on Keystone Mountain is strictly prohibited.
Violation of Rules
Violations of any of the rules could result in the ski patrol revoking ski pass privileges and/or pressing criminal charges.