Keystone packs serious mountain charm and plenty of surprises. Learn fun facts and quirky trivia about this Colorado favorite, including its Olympic beginnings, night skiing, snow forts, and record-breaking dining spots.
Heading to Keystone soon and want to learn more about this charming destination? That's great! There's nothing like exploring a place with fresh eyes after picking up a few fun facts about it.
Keystone has earned its place in Colorado's rich history and outdoor culture, attracting visitors from all over the world. From its Olympic roots to its status as one of the top night skiing destinations, Keystone is filled with fascinating stories and fun facts that only the most seasoned locals know.
At Great Western Lodging, we specialize in premium, boutique-style vacation rentals, taking pride in creating a true mountain escape where comfort meets adventure.
As locals, we know Breckenridge, Frisco, and Keystone like the back of our hands, and our blog is packed with insider tips for your next mountain getaway. Visiting our region for the first time? Planning a ski trip? Into summer mountain thrills? We've got you covered!
In this blog post, I'll dive into some of the most interesting trivia about Keystone. By the end, you'll impress everyone on your next mountain trip with your newfound knowledge of Keystone's quirks and charm.
TL;DR
- Olympic Origins: Founded by former Olympian Max Dercum in 1970.
- Three Mountains, One Adventure: Dercum, North Peak, and The Outback form Keystone's ski trifecta.
- 3,000 Acres of Skiable Bliss: Endless terrain for every skill level.
- Largest Night Skiing in Colorado: Hit the slopes under the stars.
- Sky-High Summit: 12,408 feet of elevation and breathtaking views.
- Colorado's Biggest Tubing Hill: Multi-lane fun with a lift to the top.
- Summer Golf Paradise: Two 18-hole championship courses with stunning scenery.
- Ice Skating Royalty: Home to North America's largest Zamboni-maintained rink.
- Bluegrass and Beer Festival: A Keystone classic blending local brews and live tunes.
- A51 Terrain Park: Among North America's top freestyle playgrounds.
- Cat Skiing Adventures: Ride into untouched powder for off-piste thrills.
- 100 Miles of Biking Trails: Summer brings mountain biking heaven.
- Snowboarder's Launchpad: Early adopter of Burton's Learn to Ride program.
- Keystone Science School: Outdoor education meets Rocky Mountain adventure.
- Snow Forts for All Ages: Epic winter play zones built fresh each season.
- Scenic Gondola Rides: Panoramic views year-round from Dercum Mountain.
- River Run Village Events: Keystone's social hub for food, music, and festivals.
- Nordic Skiing Serenity: 60 kilometers of groomed trails through alpine forests.
- Epic Pass Access: Unlocks multiple world-class ski resorts in one go.
- Highest Fine-Dining Spot in North America: Alpenglow Stube at over 11,000 feet.
- Long Ski Seasons: Early November to mid-April for extra snow time.
- Reliable Snowmaking: 660 acres of guaranteed fresh powder.
- Easy Mountain Escape: Just 90 miles west of Denver.
- Bavarian Charm: Der Fondue Chessel delivers Alpine-style dining magic.
Now, let's jump into the details!
Fun Facts and Interesting Facts About Keystone Resort and Its Surroundings
1. Olympic Origins
In 1970, Max Dercum, a former Olympic skier, decided to create a skier's paradise, and that vision became Keystone Resort. With a passion for the sport, he carved out this winter wonderland in the Colorado Rockies. Dercum's Olympic-level expertise ensured that Keystone became not just a ski resort, but a destination that catered to everyone, from beginners to seasoned pros.
2. Three Mountains, One Epic Adventure
Keystone's vast terrain stretches across three majestic mountains: Dercum Mountain, North Peak, and The Outback. Each mountain offers its own unique set of challenges and thrills, allowing skiers and snowboarders to experience a wide range of slopes.
3. 3,000 Acres of Skiable Bliss
With over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, Keystone gives you plenty of room to explore. From powder-filled bowls to groomed trails, this resort offers terrain that caters to all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
4. The Largest Night Skiing in Colorado
When the sun sets, Keystone's slopes come alive. As the home of the largest night skiing operation in Colorado, the resort offers a rare opportunity to ski under the stars. It's perfect for those who can't get enough of the slopes during the day and want to squeeze in a few more runs after dark.
5. Sky-High Summit at 12,408 Feet
At a breathtaking 12,408 feet above sea level, Keystone's summit is not only about skiing—it's about the views and the sheer sense of being on top of the world. The high elevation also provides access to pristine snow conditions, often staying fresh even when other resorts are winding down for the season.
6. Colorado's Biggest Snow Tubing Hill
Keystone isn't just for skiers. The resort boasts Colorado's largest snow tubing hill, which features multiple lanes and a convenient conveyor lift to get you to the top. It's a perfect option for non-skiers or anyone looking to mix up their mountain fun with some high-speed tubing thrills.
7. Golf Courses on a Ski Resort? Yes, Please!
When the snow melts, Keystone transforms into a golfer's paradise. With two 18-hole championship golf courses — Keystone Ranch and The River Course — you can enjoy a round in the stunning Rocky Mountain setting. These courses offer challenging layouts and breathtaking views, making Keystone a year-round destination.
8. Skate in Style on Keystone Lake
If you're a fan of ice skating, Keystone Lake is the ultimate rink. This massive outdoor rink is the largest Zamboni-maintained rink in North America, offering skaters a beautifully smooth surface to glide across. It's like the red carpet of ice skating, thanks to the magical Zamboni machine that smooths the ice to perfection.
9. Bluegrass and Beer
Every year, Keystone's Bluegrass and Beer Festival brings together craft brews and lively bluegrass tunes for a weekend of fun. Sip on some of the best local beers while enjoying live music in the crisp mountain air. It's an annual tradition that combines Keystone's laid-back vibe with the excitement of a good ol' party.
10. A51 Terrain Park: Top-Ranked for a Reason
For those looking to take their freestyle game to the next level, Keystone's A51 Terrain Park is the place to be. Consistently ranked among the top terrain parks in North America, A51 features jumps, rails, and features for all skill levels. It's a playground for anyone wanting to show off their tricks, or maybe just practice falling gracefully.
11. Explore the Backcountry with Cat Skiing
If you're seeking adventure beyond the lifts, Keystone's cat skiing tours offer an unforgettable way to experience backcountry skiing. Hop in a snowcat and head into untouched powder for some thrilling runs far from the resort's groomed trails. It's the perfect way to escape the crowds and experience true wilderness.
12. 100 Miles of Summer Biking Trails
When the snow melts, Keystone turns into a mountain biker's paradise with over 100 miles of trails. From beginner-friendly paths to adrenaline-pumping downhill tracks, there's a trail for everyone. It's the perfect summer escape for those who crave outdoor adventure year-round.
13. The Snowboarder's Starting Point
Keystone was one of the first resorts to adopt Burton's Learn to Ride program, making it a great place for aspiring snowboarders to get started. This program is designed to make learning easy and fun, with expert instructors guiding beginners through every step. It's where many now-pro riders first learned to shred.
14. Learning Beyond the Classroom
Founded in 1976, the Keystone Science School offers year-round science education programs. From summer camps to winter workshops, the school provides hands-on learning experiences in the stunning natural surroundings of the Rocky Mountains. It's an inspiring way to mix education with outdoor fun.
15. Snow Forts Fit for a King
Every winter, Keystone builds two enormous snow forts, turning the mountain into a frozen fantasy land. Launching a snowball fight or just exploring the icy castles, these forts add an extra layer of winter magic to your trip.
16. Gondola Rides with a View
Keystone's scenic gondola rides aren't just for skiers. Take a ride to the top of Dercum Mountain and enjoy jaw-dropping views of the surrounding peaks, whether it's summer or winter. It's a peaceful way to take in the beauty of the Rockies from above.
17. Keystone's Event Hub
Keystone's River Run Village is the heart of the resort's social scene, hosting numerous festivals, concerts, and events throughout the year. From food festivals to outdoor concerts, there's always something happening to keep the energy alive.
18. 60 Kilometers of Serenity
For those who prefer a quieter, more peaceful winter experience, Keystone offers over 60 kilometers of groomed Nordic skiing trails. Glide through the serene, snow-covered forests and take in the tranquil beauty of the Rockies at your own pace.
19. The Epic Pass
Keystone is part of the Epic Pass system, which means when you buy a pass, you're not just skiing Keystone—you get access to a whole collection of world-class resorts. It's a great way to expand your skiing horizons without breaking the bank.
20. North America's Highest Gourmet Restaurant
For an unforgettable dining experience, visit Alpenglow Stube. Perched at over 11,000 feet, this AAA Four-Diamond restaurant is the highest in North America. That means you can relax after a day on the slopes or enjoy a romantic evening with stunning views and top-notch cuisine that make it truly special.
21. Long Ski Seasons
Keystone boasts one of the longest ski seasons in Colorado, with slopes staying open from early November to mid-April. That means more time to perfect your technique, enjoy après-ski, and take in the mountain views! What more could you ask for?
22. Snowmaking for Guaranteed Fun
Keystone ensures consistent conditions with snow making capabilities that cover over 660 acres. Even if nature doesn't provide, Keystone guarantees you'll still have plenty of fresh snow to enjoy.
23. Easy Mountain Getaway
Just 90 miles west of Denver, Keystone offers the perfect spot for a quick mountain retreat. From skiing in the winter to hiking in the summer, its proximity to the city ensures an easy and accessible adventure.
24. Bavarian Charm at Der Fondue Chessel
For a truly unique dining experience, visit Der Fondue Chessel. This Bavarian-themed restaurant offers a cozy, alpine atmosphere, complete with cheese and chocolate fondue. It's the perfect way to unwind after a day on the slopes, with hearty food and a touch of European charm.
Experience the best of Keystone
At Great Western Lodging, we offer a superior selection of luxury properties, ski-in/ski-out options, and downtown lodgings in Breckenridge, Frisco, and Keystone.
Staying in one of our properties, we guarantee you'll have nothing less than a 5-star experience during your trip to Colorado.