Your Guide to Ski Season in Keystone

When to Go, Where to Stay, & What to Know

Are you already dreaming of snowy peaks, crisp mountain air, and carving fresh lines down the slopes? You won’t have to wait much longer. Ski season is on its way and Keystone, Colorado is one of the Rockies’ most beloved ski destinations. This alpine resort spans 3 mountains, offering something for everyone—from first-timers learning the basics to seasoned skiers chasing powder. With a long season, family-friendly amenities, and plenty of trails to explore, Keystone makes planning your winter escape easier than ever. In this guide, we’ll share all our insider knowledge, including the best time to visit, where to stay, and everything you need to know before hitting the slopes. Read on for the best tips on planning the perfect ski season getaway.

When to Visit Keystone Resort

Keystone Resort is usually among the first resorts to open in Summit County, so you may be able to hit the slopes earlier than you think. Opening day often comes in late October with the season running through mid-April, depending on the year’s snowfall. No matter when you visit, you’re sure to have an excellent time on the slopes, but here’s a few things to keep in mind about the timing of your trip:

• Early Season (November–December): There will be fewer crowds in the early season, as some skiers prefer to wait until there is more snow on the ground before heading to the slopes. There will also be limited terrain at first with some runs closed until there’s adequate snowfall. On the positive side, this time is great for budget-friendly trips, and you can likely score a deal on accommodations and lift tickets.
• Peak Season (January–February): You’ll get the best snow conditions during peak season, as well as the experience of a lively après-ski scene when you’re done for the day. But this is also when you’ll encounter the biggest crowds of the season, especially on popular holiday weekends.
• Spring Skiing (March–April): There’s still enough snow on the ground in the early spring to hit the slopes. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy sunshine, longer days, and fun, family-friendly events. Spring is also a great time to find deals on lodging, so it’s a good option for budget travelers.

What to Know about Visiting Keystone Resort

The best part about Keystone Resort is there’s something for everyone. The resort includes trails for all skill levels across its 3,000+ acres of terrain. Whether you’ve never stepped on skis before or you’re an experienced shredder, you’ll find runs to meet your needs – and even lessons if you need them. Here’s the areas we recommend based on skill level:

• Beginner: If you’re just starting out or brushing up on your skills, we recommend visiting the Discovery learning area. In this area, you’ll have both magic carpets and a beginner lift where you can find your footing before venturing out. You can also find lots of beginner terrain on Dercum Mountain, as this area features wide, long, and well-groomed runs, including the famous Schoolmarm run.
• Intermediate: If you’ve got some experience under your belt, you may want to branch out to some intermediate terrain. The blue runs Paymaster and Frenchman, as well as the runs off the Montezuma Express lift all provide a great place for intermediate skiers to build confidence and gain experience on more challenging terrain.
• Advanced & Expert: If you’re looking to experience an exciting, heart-pumping adventure, you can find advanced and expert terrain in the North Bowl, The Outback, and the Windows. These areas offer tons of options for tree skiing as well as challenging terrain to navigate.

Keystone Resort at a Glance

Where to Stay in Keystone, CO

When it comes to lodging, staying in a Keystone vacation rental offers comfort and convenience that hotels just can’t match. Whether you’re looking for a slopeside condo steps from the lifts, a spacious townhome for the whole family, or a luxury retreat with mountain views, SkyRun has a vacation home that will match your needs. Most of our rentals come fully equipped with kitchens, cozy living spaces, fireplaces, and even private hot tubs—perfect for unwinding after a long day on the mountain. Plus, being close to River Run Village or Mountain House means easy access to dining, shopping, and après-ski fun.

Soda Ridge Lodge
Spacious home just one mile from the lifts
6 Bedrooms | 3.5 Baths | 14 Guests

Keystone Adventures Basecamp
Views of the slopes from your balcony
4 Bedrooms | 4.5 Baths | 12 Guests

1182 Flying Dutchman
Cozy condo with loft in West Keystone
2 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 8 Guests

Need-to-Know Tips for Booking a Keystone Ski Getaway

Before you hit the slopes, we’ve got a few insider tips to help you make the most of your Keystone trip. As locals of the area, and avid skiers ourselves, we know our way around the resort and the town and are always willing to share our insight with guests. Here’s some things you should definitely keep in mind when booking your ski getaway:

• Lift Tickets & Passes: It’s best to buy tickets in advance, as you can often qualify for discounts when you book online. In addition, multi-day passes are often more affordable when you plan ahead. We suggest looking into the Epic Day Pass option as it can provide lift access for numerous days at a discounted rate.
• Accommodations: The same tip applies here – the earlier you book, the better prices you’ll find. If you book your stay before ski season begins and demand rises, you can score some of the best rates of the season.
• Ski School: If you need some help finding your ski legs, we suggest booking lessons at the Keystone Ski & Ride School. This is great for kids and first-timers. Once again, it’s highly recommended to book lessons ahead of time.
• Transportation: Even if you aren’t in a ski-in/ski-out property, navigating your way to the resort won’t take too long. The town shuttles and gondolas make getting around easy, and many of our rentals are within walking distance of a shuttle stop or main gondola.
• Après-Ski & Dining: It’s always nice to find a place to relax or grab a drink after a day on the slopes. Some of our favorites include Keystone Ranch, Kickapoo Tavern, and River Run Village.
• Events & Activities: Keystone is known for its abundance of activities, including night skiing, the tubing hill, and ice skating. There are also numerous festivals throughout the season, so consider planning your trip during an event for even more to do.

Plan a Ski Trip to Keystone

Keystone has everything you need for an unforgettable ski vacation, from wide beginner runs to thrilling expert terrain. Add in all the lively après-ski spots, family-friendly activities, and the charm of a true Colorado mountain town, and you’ll see why visitors return year after year. And you can make your vacation even better with  a cozy place to stay. Our Keystone vacation homes and condos offer comfort, convenience, and plenty of space to relax after a day on the slopes. Whether you want ski in/ski out access or a home with a hot tub, we have something to meet your needs. Start planning today, and book your perfect ski season stay with us!