Where to Park at Keystone

Travel Guide
Where to Park at Keystone: The Ultimate Guide for Visitors
Updated November 19, 2025
Friends Putting on Gear in the Parking Lot at Stevens Pass

Visiting Keystone Ski Resort offers an unforgettable experience on the slopes, but navigating where to park can sometimes be a bit overwhelming for first-time or even returning visitors. Whether you’re here for a quick day trip or staying for an extended vacation, understanding your parking options will help streamline your visit and maximize your time on the mountain. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about parking at Keystone, from free and paid parking options to tips and tricks for the best spots.

Base Area Parking Options

Keystone offers several parking options depending on where you plan to start your day, whether you’re skiing, shopping, or dining. Keystone is divided into three main base areas: River Run Village, Mountain House, and Lakeside Village. Each base area offers its own distinct parking opportunities, with options for both free and paid parking.

1. River Run Village

River Run Village is the heart of Keystone, home to the River Run Gondola, ski shops, restaurants, and events. The primary parking option here is the River Run Parking Lot.

  • River Run Parking Lot: This lot offers free parking and is conveniently just off Highway 6. It’s a short walk to the River Run Gondola, making it ideal for skiers and snowboarders looking to get on the mountain quickly.
  • Carpool Incentives: Keystone also encourages eco-friendly travel by offering dedicated parking spots in the River Run lot for carpools of four or more. This is part of the resort’s sustainability efforts and a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. The front center of the River Run lot is sectioned off for carpooling guests.

2. Mountain House Base Area

Mountain House is another main hub at Keystone, offering direct access to Peru lift and Discovery Park Ski & Ride School area. The two main parking options here are:

  • Mountain House East Lot: This is a free parking lot, and it’s a convenient option close to the Mountain House Base area and Peru lift. It’s perfect for families or anyone who wants to minimize walking with gear. You’ll have direct access to the Mountain House base area lifts, rental shops, and ski and ride school lessons drop-off from here.
  • Mountain House West Lot: This paid parking lot is slightly closer to the lifts than the free East lot. If you’re willing to pay for the convenience, this is the best option for being as close to the slopes as possible.

3. Lakeside Village

Lakeside Village is less about proximity to lifts and more about a relaxing après-ski experience. It’s home to Keystone’s spa, ice rink, and several dining options. For those visiting the village, you can park at:

  • Lakeside Village Lot: This lot offers free parking and is located across Highway 6 from the Keystone Lodge. It’s ideal for visitors spending time at the Adventure Center, Keystone Spa, or the ice rink.

4. North Shuttle Lot

Located along Highway 6, the North Shuttle Lot offers free parking and provides access to the east side of the resort via a free shuttle service. This is a good option for visitors who want to avoid the base area lots but still enjoy easy access to the resort.

Get all the parking and town transit details for your visit:  See all Getting Here & Parking info

Lot Overview

Keystone Resort Parking Map

Parking Costs and Tips for Keystone

Paid vs. Free Parking at Keystone

One of the best aspects of Keystone Resort is the availability of free parking at both primary base areas, River Run Village and Mountain House. These lots are perfect for day-trippers and visitors looking to save some money while still being relatively close to the action.

There are also some paid parking options for those who prioritize proximity and convenience. If you want to be closer to the lifts or prefer valet service, the Mountain House West lot or valet parking at Keystone Lodge & Spa or Hyatt Place Keystone might be worth the extra cost.

Parking Costs:

  • Free Parking: Available at River Run, Mountain House East, and Lakeside Village.
  • Paid Parking: Available at Mountain House West and select lodging properties.
  • Valet Parking: Available at Keystone Lodge & Spa and Hyatt Place Keystone.

Shuttle Services and Transit Options

Keystone makes it easy for guests to get around the resort without walking long distances. Free shuttle services are available between the North Shuttle Lot and the east side of the resort, as well as between different base areas. This means that even if you park further from your desired base area, a quick shuttle ride can get you where you need to go.

Shuttles run frequently throughout the day and are particularly helpful for families or anyone carrying extra gear. There’s also a complimentary shuttle service connecting the River Run lot with other parts of the resort, including shopping areas, restaurants, and rental shops. Shuttles may also be available near select lodging and hotel properties.

Parking Near Rental Shops and Lessons Drop-off

One common question visitors have is where to park when they’re heading to pick up rental gear or dropping off children for ski lessons. Here’s a breakdown of the best parking options for those scenarios:

  • River Run Village: River Run Parking Lot offers quick access to rental shops and the ski school area, making it ideal for families or anyone needing efficient access.
  • Mountain House Base: The Mountain House East Lot is the best option for rentals or ski lesson drop-off in this base area. It’s the closest point to the ski school entrance.

Local Tips and Tricks for Parking

Here are some insider tips to help you find the smoothest parking experience at Keystone:

  • Arrive Early: Free lots fill up quickly on weekends and holidays. Early arrival gives you the best chance at a prime spot.
  • Use the Shuttle: If the closer lots are full, the North Shuttle Lot is a great fallback option with efficient service to the base areas.
  • Carpool for Perks: Groups of four or more can use dedicated carpool parking in River Run—a great perk and an eco-friendly choice.
  • Check for Events: Festivals and events may affect parking availability. Always review the event calendar ahead of time.

Final Thoughts

Keystone Resort offers a parking option for every type of visitor—whether you prefer free lots, paid convenience, or valet service. Combined with shuttle access and carpool benefits, getting around the resort is designed to be straightforward and efficient.

By planning ahead and using these tips, you’ll spend less time figuring out logistics and more time enjoying the incredible skiing, dining, and winter adventures that Keystone has to offer.

First Time at Keystone?

We’ve gathered everything you need to feel prepared for your trip — from what to expect on arrival to beginner-friendly tips for getting around the mountain.

Explore the Keystone First-Timer Guide

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There’s so much to look forward to on a trip to Keystone, and so much to prepare. From getting to the mountain, to planning your stay, finding the best gear, and hitting the slopes, we make it easy with a wealth of resources designed to help get you straight to the fun.
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