Keystone is one of the most family-friendly resorts in Colorado and one of the first in North America to open each season. It is spread across three peaks above the Snake River, with long, easy cruisers, a separate area of bowls for strong skiers, and the biggest night skiing operation in the state. It is also only a few minutes from Arapahoe Basin and 20 minutes from Breckenridge, so it makes an excellent base for a Summit County trip.
Keystone at a glance
- Location: Summit County, about 90 miles from Denver airport
- Terrain: Three peaks and two bowls, more than 3,000 acres
- Best for: Families, night skiing, early-season skiing
- Lift passes: Epic Pass
- 2026/27 season: Aiming to open as soon as possible in October
- Nearest airport: Denver International, under two hours
What’s New for 2026/27
Keystone is aiming to be the first ski resort in North America to open for the second year running, and plans to open as soon as possible in October, thanks to its high-capacity snowmaking. Like the other Vail Resorts mountains, it will also benefit from new investment in on-mountain food and private lessons.
The Skiing
Keystone’s terrain covers Dercum Mountain, North Peak and The Outback, plus the high, open Bergman and Erickson Bowls, with more than 3,000 acres in all. Dercum Mountain, served by the River Run Gondola, is ideal for beginners and intermediates, with long, wide runs such as Schoolmarm. North Peak and The Outback have steeper runs, bumps and glades.
Keystone is best known for its night skiing, with floodlit runs on Dercum Mountain on selected evenings. It is a great way to fit in a few more runs, and children love it.
Families
Keystone has long been one of Colorado’s best resorts for children, with gentle terrain, a big ski school, snow forts and family activities through the season. Ask about family deals when you book lodging.
Lift Passes
Keystone is on the Epic Pass, along with Breckenridge, Vail, Beaver Creek and Crested Butte.
Getting There
Keystone is about 90 miles from Denver International Airport, around an hour and 45 minutes by road via I-70 and the Eisenhower Tunnel. Arapahoe Basin is ten minutes up the road.
For more information visit keystoneresort.com.
Keystone: Your Questions Answered
When does Keystone open?
Keystone aims to be one of the first resorts in North America to open each season. For 2026/27 it plans to open as soon as possible in October, conditions permitting.
Does Keystone have night skiing?
Yes. Keystone has the largest night skiing operation in Colorado, with floodlit runs on Dercum Mountain on selected evenings.
Is Keystone good for families?
Yes. Keystone is one of Colorado’s most family-friendly resorts, with plenty of gentle terrain, a large ski school and activities for children.