{"id":724,"date":"2024-06-19T14:17:18","date_gmt":"2024-06-19T14:17:18","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/?p=724"},"modified":"2024-06-20T05:16:45","modified_gmt":"2024-06-20T05:16:45","slug":"mountain-review-keystone","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/index.php\/2024\/06\/19\/mountain-review-keystone\/","title":{"rendered":"Mountain Review: Keystone"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>MOUNTAIN SCORE<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.peakrankings.com\/colorado-rankings\" target=\"\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>#9 in Colorado<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<figure class=\"\n              sqs-block-image-figure\n              intrinsic\n            \"><\/p>\n<p>                <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/1588134609908-4BJ2LWGNVYWSUEO0YJLQ\/NewScoreColor7.jpg\" data-image-dimensions=\"149x149\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"149\" height=\"149\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/NewScoreColor7.jpg\"><figcaption class=\"image-caption-wrapper\">\n<h4>72<\/h4>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.peakrankings.com\/rankings\"><strong>#18 Overall<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<p>  <a href=\"#review\" class=\"sqs-block-button-element--small sqs-button-element--tertiary sqs-block-button-element\"><br \/>\n    WRITTEN REVIEW<br \/>\n  <\/a><\/p>\n<p>  <a href=\"#mountain-stats\" class=\"sqs-block-button-element--small sqs-button-element--tertiary sqs-block-button-element\"><br \/>\n    MOUNTAIN STATS<br \/>\n  <\/a><\/p>\n<p>  <a href=\"#recent-articles\" class=\"sqs-block-button-element--small sqs-button-element--tertiary sqs-block-button-element\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><br \/>\n    RECENT ARTICLES<br \/>\n  <\/a><\/p>\n<p>  <a href=\"#video\" class=\"sqs-block-button-element--small sqs-button-element--tertiary sqs-block-button-element\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><br \/>\n    VIDEO REVIEW<br \/>\n  <\/a><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"category-breakdown\" class=\"see-our-criteria\">CATEGORY BREAKDOWN&nbsp;<\/h3>\n<p><i class=\"see-our-criteria\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.peakrankings.com\/content\/mountain-score-thresholds\">See our criteria<\/a><\/i><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<figure data-test=\"image-block-v2-outer-wrapper\" class=\"\n            sqs-block-image-figure\n            image-block-outer-wrapper\n            image-block-v2\n            design-layout-poster\n            combination-animation-none\n            individual-animation-none\n            individual-text-animation-none\n            image-position-left\n            \n          \" data-scrolled><\/p>\n<p>              <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/1588134566542-PQX6ZS3HXB4EDWVG2ZBJ\/NewScoreColor8.jpg\" data-image-dimensions=\"149x149\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"149\" height=\"149\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/NewScoreColor8.jpg\"><figcaption data-width-ratio class=\"image-card-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"\">8<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Snow:<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure data-test=\"image-block-v2-outer-wrapper\" class=\"\n            sqs-block-image-figure\n            image-block-outer-wrapper\n            image-block-v2\n            design-layout-poster\n            combination-animation-none\n            individual-animation-none\n            individual-text-animation-none\n            image-position-left\n            \n          \" data-scrolled><\/p>\n<p>              <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/1588134566542-PQX6ZS3HXB4EDWVG2ZBJ\/NewScoreColor8.jpg\" data-image-dimensions=\"149x149\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"149\" height=\"149\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/NewScoreColor8.jpg\"><figcaption data-width-ratio class=\"image-card-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"\">8<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Resiliency:<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure data-test=\"image-block-v2-outer-wrapper\" class=\"\n            sqs-block-image-figure\n            image-block-outer-wrapper\n            image-block-v2\n            design-layout-poster\n            combination-animation-none\n            individual-animation-none\n            individual-text-animation-none\n            image-position-left\n            \n          \" data-scrolled><\/p>\n<p>              <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/1588134566542-PQX6ZS3HXB4EDWVG2ZBJ\/NewScoreColor8.jpg\" data-image-dimensions=\"149x149\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"149\" height=\"149\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/NewScoreColor8.jpg\"><figcaption data-width-ratio class=\"image-card-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"\">8<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Size:<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure data-test=\"image-block-v2-outer-wrapper\" class=\"\n            sqs-block-image-figure\n            image-block-outer-wrapper\n            image-block-v2\n            design-layout-poster\n            combination-animation-none\n            individual-animation-none\n            individual-text-animation-none\n            image-position-left\n            \n          \" data-scrolled><\/p>\n<p>              <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/1588134566542-PQX6ZS3HXB4EDWVG2ZBJ\/NewScoreColor8.jpg\" data-image-dimensions=\"149x149\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"149\" height=\"149\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/NewScoreColor8.jpg\"><figcaption data-width-ratio class=\"image-card-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"\">8<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Terrain Diversity:<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure data-test=\"image-block-v2-outer-wrapper\" class=\"\n            sqs-block-image-figure\n            image-block-outer-wrapper\n            image-block-v2\n            design-layout-poster\n            combination-animation-none\n            individual-animation-none\n            individual-text-animation-none\n            image-position-left\n            \n          \" data-scrolled><\/p>\n<p>              <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/1588134587987-M2Z2LCWK97L5RCIQZF09\/NewScoreColor6.jpg\" data-image-dimensions=\"149x149\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"149\" height=\"149\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/NewScoreColor6.jpg\"><figcaption data-width-ratio class=\"image-card-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"\">6<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Challenge:<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure data-test=\"image-block-v2-outer-wrapper\" class=\"\n            sqs-block-image-figure\n            image-block-outer-wrapper\n            image-block-v2\n            design-layout-poster\n            combination-animation-none\n            individual-animation-none\n            individual-text-animation-none\n            image-position-left\n            \n          \" data-scrolled><\/p>\n<p>              <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/1588134587987-M2Z2LCWK97L5RCIQZF09\/NewScoreColor6.jpg\" data-image-dimensions=\"149x149\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"149\" height=\"149\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/NewScoreColor6.jpg\"><figcaption data-width-ratio class=\"image-card-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"\">6<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Lifts:<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure data-test=\"image-block-v2-outer-wrapper\" class=\"\n            sqs-block-image-figure\n            image-block-outer-wrapper\n            image-block-v2\n            design-layout-poster\n            combination-animation-none\n            individual-animation-none\n            individual-text-animation-none\n            image-position-left\n            \n          \" data-scrolled><\/p>\n<p>              <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/1588134609908-4BJ2LWGNVYWSUEO0YJLQ\/NewScoreColor7.jpg\" data-image-dimensions=\"149x149\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"149\" height=\"149\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/NewScoreColor7.jpg\"><figcaption data-width-ratio class=\"image-card-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"\">7<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Crowd Flow:<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure data-test=\"image-block-v2-outer-wrapper\" class=\"\n            sqs-block-image-figure\n            image-block-outer-wrapper\n            image-block-v2\n            design-layout-poster\n            combination-animation-none\n            individual-animation-none\n            individual-text-animation-none\n            image-position-left\n            \n          \" data-scrolled><\/p>\n<p>              <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/1588134609908-4BJ2LWGNVYWSUEO0YJLQ\/NewScoreColor7.jpg\" data-image-dimensions=\"149x149\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"149\" height=\"149\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/NewScoreColor7.jpg\"><figcaption data-width-ratio class=\"image-card-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"\">7<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Facilities:<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure data-test=\"image-block-v2-outer-wrapper\" class=\"\n            sqs-block-image-figure\n            image-block-outer-wrapper\n            image-block-v2\n            design-layout-poster\n            combination-animation-none\n            individual-animation-none\n            individual-text-animation-none\n            image-position-left\n            \n          \" data-scrolled><\/p>\n<p>              <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/1588134587987-M2Z2LCWK97L5RCIQZF09\/NewScoreColor6.jpg\" data-image-dimensions=\"149x149\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"149\" height=\"149\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/NewScoreColor6.jpg\"><figcaption data-width-ratio class=\"image-card-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"\">6<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Navigation:<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure data-test=\"image-block-v2-outer-wrapper\" class=\"\n            sqs-block-image-figure\n            image-block-outer-wrapper\n            image-block-v2\n            design-layout-poster\n            combination-animation-none\n            individual-animation-none\n            individual-text-animation-none\n            image-position-left\n            \n          \" data-scrolled><\/p>\n<p>              <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/1588134566542-PQX6ZS3HXB4EDWVG2ZBJ\/NewScoreColor8.jpg\" data-image-dimensions=\"149x149\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"149\" height=\"149\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/NewScoreColor8.jpg\"><figcaption data-width-ratio class=\"image-card-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"\">8<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Mountain Aesthetic:<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3>GOOD TO KNOW<\/h3>\n<hr \/>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>1-Day Ticket:   <\/strong>$169-$269<\/p>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Pass Affiliation:   <\/strong>Epic Pass<\/p>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>On-site Lodging:   <\/strong>Yes<\/p>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Apr\u00e9s-ski:<\/strong>   Moderate<\/p>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Nearest Cities:   <\/strong>Denver (2 hrs)<\/p>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Recommended Ability Level:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"\n              sqs-block-image-figure\n              intrinsic\n            \"><\/p>\n<p>                <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/1586293445148-CNUPEUT9GYNPQ2ITFGTW\/AbilityRangeIntermediateAdvanced.png\" data-image-dimensions=\"270x80\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"270\" height=\"80\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/AbilityRangeIntermediateAdvanced.png\"><\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<h3 id=\"pros\" class=\"lean\">\n  <span class=\"plus\">&nbsp;&nbsp;+<\/span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pros<br \/>\n<\/h3>\n<hr \/>\n<ul data-rte-list=\"default\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"\">Solid mix of groomed, mogul, and tree terrain<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"\">High-alpine bowl terrain for all ability levels<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"\">Uniquely-designed footprint<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"\">Night skiing<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 class=\"lean\">\n  <span class=\"minus\">&nbsp;&nbsp;&ndash;<\/span>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cons<br \/>\n<\/h3>\n<hr \/>\n<ul data-rte-list=\"default\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"\">Long travel time to and from furthest mountain areas<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"\">Smaller lift-served footprint than many competitors<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"\">Very limited true expert features<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 id=\"mountain-stats\" class=\"lean-blue\">MOUNTAIN STATS<\/h3>\n<hr \/>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Skiable Footprint:<\/strong>   <a href=\"https:\/\/www.keystoneresort.com\/the-mountain\/about-the-mountain\/mountain-info.aspx\" target=\"\" rel=\"noopener\">3,148<\/a>&nbsp;acres<\/p>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Total Footprint:   <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mapdevelopers.com\/area_finder.php?polygons=%5B%5B%5B%5B39.60616232034136%2C-105.94134992508812%5D%2C%5B39.604046198489%2C-105.9428948774807%5D%2C%5B39.60351715792166%2C-105.94443982987328%5D%2C%5B39.60351715792166%2C-105.94735807328148%5D%2C%5B39.604046198489%2C-105.94941800980492%5D%2C%5B39.60470749351455%2C-105.95353788285179%5D%2C%5B39.60470749351455%2C-105.95697111039085%5D%2C%5B39.60470749351455%2C-105.95834440140648%5D%2C%5B39.60193001196965%2C-105.95851606278343%5D%2C%5B39.59994602837779%2C-105.95868772416038%5D%2C%5B39.59796198795126%2C-105.95920270829124%5D%2C%5B39.59518423587326%2C-105.96126264481468%5D%2C%5B39.59346461924045%2C-105.96212095169945%5D%2C%5B39.59187724292196%2C-105.96109098343773%5D%2C%5B39.588570092105044%2C-105.95851606278343%5D%2C%5B39.58618884576844%2C-105.95782941727562%5D%2C%5B39.58579196342284%2C-105.95525449662132%5D%2C%5B39.58393981575376%2C-105.95319456009788%5D%2C%5B39.58169071274589%2C-105.95113462357445%5D%2C%5B39.57917692300601%2C-105.94443982987328%5D%2C%5B39.5760014793277%2C-105.94461149125023%5D%2C%5B39.574016753155306%2C-105.94684308915062%5D%2C%5B39.57282589017589%2C-105.94804471878929%5D%2C%5B39.570444102846906%2C-105.94752973465843%5D%2C%5B39.567003598914084%2C-105.94907468705101%5D%2C%5B39.565415616441975%2C-105.95182126908226%5D%2C%5B39.56422460572281%2C-105.95216459183617%5D%2C%5B39.56203886347172%2C-105.94829939677757%5D%2C%5B39.55965670558951%2C-105.94538115336937%5D%2C%5B39.55740681468399%2C-105.94297789409202%5D%2C%5B39.55687741798241%2C-105.93937300517601%5D%2C%5B39.55714211683829%2C-105.93808554484886%5D%2C%5B39.55697668017173%2C-105.93782805278343%5D%2C%5B39.55654654299217%2C-105.93817137553734%5D%2C%5B39.555984051886604%2C-105.93872927501243%5D%2C%5B39.555289203635276%2C-105.93937300517601%5D%2C%5B39.554759790772124%2C-105.93980215861839%5D%2C%5B39.55409801901143%2C-105.94040297343773%5D%2C%5B39.55363477502271%2C-105.94091795756859%5D%2C%5B39.552906813933376%2C-105.9416046030764%5D%2C%5B39.55201339670189%2C-105.94237707927269%5D%2C%5B39.551285418599164%2C-105.94302080943626%5D%2C%5B39.55078906551314%2C-105.94349287822288%5D%2C%5B39.54814178908237%2C-105.94040297343773%5D%2C%5B39.54615626547505%2C-105.93782805278343%5D%2C%5B39.54390593670468%2C-105.93714140727562%5D%2C%5B39.54271455663618%2C-105.93559645488304%5D%2C%5B39.5399345902719%2C-105.93473814799827%5D%2C%5B39.539272677106126%2C-105.93336485698265%5D%2C%5B39.54033173514142%2C-105.93164824321312%5D%2C%5B39.53887552617668%2C-105.92958830668968%5D%2C%5B39.53728689973446%2C-105.92340849711937%5D%2C%5B39.53874314202856%2C-105.91988943889183%5D%2C%5B39.539669825763085%2C-105.9170570261721%5D%2C%5B39.5415562508502%2C-105.91443919017357%5D%2C%5B39.540488937691215%2C-105.91243289783043%5D%2C%5B39.538031572906434%2C-105.91231488063377%5D%2C%5B39.538081217500476%2C-105.91173552348656%5D%2C%5B39.54066268746342%2C-105.90924643352074%5D%2C%5B39.54198648097027%2C-105.90619944407982%5D%2C%5B39.545097296320385%2C-105.90568445994896%5D%2C%5B39.547347586457185%2C-105.90212248637718%5D%2C%5B39.55198030695383%2C-105.90092085673851%5D%2C%5B39.55562008462297%2C-105.90100668742699%5D%2C%5B39.55793620734516%2C-105.90795897319359%5D%2C%5B39.56203886347172%2C-105.91053389384788%5D%2C%5B39.564023932537985%2C-105.90933226420921%5D%2C%5B39.569052519865046%2C-105.90418242290062%5D%2C%5B39.57176515896436%2C-105.90366743876976%5D%2C%5B39.57308835903547%2C-105.90705775096458%5D%2C%5B39.5761316233547%2C-105.9071864969973%5D%2C%5B39.577851670175704%2C-105.90933226420921%5D%2C%5B39.581886997096724%2C-105.91001890971702%5D%2C%5B39.57904244681751%2C-105.91611288859886%5D%2C%5B39.574610007895295%2C-105.91980360820335%5D%2C%5B39.57156667677541%2C-105.9196319468264%5D%2C%5B39.56825855663647%2C-105.9207477457766%5D%2C%5B39.569581823633165%2C-105.92439555003685%5D%2C%5B39.57123587186444%2C-105.92890166118187%5D%2C%5B39.573816108309494%2C-105.93233488872093%5D%2C%5B39.57791782497028%2C-105.93679808452171%5D%2C%5B39.58056396497776%2C-105.93851469829124%5D%2C%5B39.58492987512039%2C-105.9386863596682%5D%2C%5B39.58585594191186%2C-105.93714140727562%5D%2C%5B39.588369489388256%2C-105.93765639140648%5D%2C%5B39.59405770751285%2C-105.93456648662132%5D%2C%5B39.59590958472489%2C-105.93508147075218%5D%2C%5B39.5989518469523%2C-105.93817137553734%5D%2C%5B39.599480922395166%2C-105.94023131206077%5D%2C%5B39.60616232034136%2C-105.94134992508812%5D%5D%2C&quot;%23AAAAAA&quot;%2C&quot;%23000000&quot;%2C0.4%5D%5D\" target=\"\" rel=\"noopener\">4,434<\/a> acres<\/p>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Lift-Serviced Terrain:<\/strong>   61%<\/p>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Top Elevation:   <\/strong>12,408 ft<\/p>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Vertical Drop:   <\/strong>3,128 ft<\/p>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Lifts:<\/strong>   20<\/p>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Trails:   <\/strong>128<\/p>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Beginner:   <\/strong>12%<\/p>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Intermediate:<\/strong>   39%<\/p>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><strong>Advanced\/Expert:   <\/strong>49%<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"recent-articles\" class=\"lean-blue\">RECENT ARTICLES<\/h3>\n<hr \/>\n<h3 id=\"video\" class=\"lean-blue\">VIDEO<\/h3>\n<hr \/>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"review\">Mountain Review<\/h2>\n<p class=\"\">With more than 3,000 acres of terrain within driving distance of Denver, Keystone has historically competed with the best in Colorado\u2014at least on paper. The resort has always offered easy access to plenty of wide groomers, steep bump runs, and fun tree areas, but in years\u2019 past, the area\u2019s practical size was hampered by the lack of direct lift access to a substantial percentage of its footprint, including all of its above-treeline bowl terrain. But in late 2023, Keystone finally added a lift to its high-alpine footprint, providing a long-awaited solution for this significant shortcoming.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"\n              sqs-block-image-figure\n              intrinsic\n            \"><\/p>\n<p>                <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/5e4d78df-6276-4da2-a35e-52652e916d14\/keystonebergmanbowlpost.jpg\" data-image-dimensions=\"2500x1406\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"2500\" height=\"1406\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/keystonebergmanbowlpost.jpg\"><figcaption class=\"image-caption-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"\">Keystone offers over 3,000 acres of varied terrain in the heart of the Colorado rockies.<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Snow and Resiliency<\/h3>\n<p class=\"\">When it comes to a destination ski vacation, high-quality snow is key. And while Keystone does fit the bill, it falls a bit behind its closest competitors in this department. The resort sees slightly less accumulation than the best Colorado resorts each year, and major snow events that hit places such as Breckenridge and Arapahoe Basin often dump way less on Keystone. That being said, Keystone does hold its snow well in its below-treeline areas, and the resort employs extensive snowmaking to ensure resiliency and open terrain early compared to other resorts. Keystone has made significant investments in its snowmaking infrastructure in recent years, and the enhancements have been really effective at allowing the resort to build an artificial base. In fact, Keystone\u2019s early-season snowmaking is so effective that the resort often opens in mid or late October, making it either one of first resorts\u2014if not the first\u2014to open up for the season in North America.<\/p>\n<h3>TRAIL MAP<\/h3>\n<hr \/>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"\n              sqs-block-image-figure\n              intrinsic\n            \"><\/p>\n<p>          <a class=\"\n                sqs-block-image-link\n                \n          \n        \n              \" href=\"https:\/\/www.peakrankings.com\/s\/KeystoneTrailMap.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><\/p>\n<p>                <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/9903285c-0638-440c-aef5-07c2b45ba32a\/KeystoneTrailMap.png\" data-image-dimensions=\"1166x947\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"1166\" height=\"947\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/KeystoneTrailMap.png\"><\/p>\n<p>          <\/a><\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Terrain Layout<\/h3>\n<p class=\"\">When you first get to Keystone, it looks pretty unimposing for a major Colorado ski resort. Both bases sit on the front side of Dercum Mountain, which is a peak mostly comprising gentler slopes with below-treeline terrain. Most runs in this area are mellower groomers, but a few sections of steeper bump runs exist as well.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\">But when you get to the top of the front side, you\u2019ll not only see the start of the slopes down the back side of Dercum, but also not just one, but two additional peaks of trails up ahead\u2014these include North Peak, which is immediately adjacent to Dercum Mountain and home to a wide variety of intermediate and advanced runs, and The Outback, which also hosts this level of terrain but specializes in glades. It\u2019s a sight to behold seeing the ski resort continue on as extensively as it does, and you really have to see it to believe it.<\/p>\n<h3>Bergman Bowl Expansion Terrain<\/h3>\n<p class=\"\">But North Peak and Outback aren\u2019t the only trail pods beyond Keystone\u2019s front side anymore. For the 2023-24 season, the resort finally expanded its lift service into the high-alpine, installing a new chairlift up the eponymous Keystone Peak into the resort\u2019s Bergman Bowl. This new terrain zone is accessible from the top of North Peak, with a distinctive mix of trails for all ability levels, including some uniquely accessible runs for beginners and intermediates. But while a great addition to the resort, the new Bergman Bowl isn\u2019t exactly a substitute for the vast bowls of Vail, Copper, or even Breckenridge\u2014the above-treeline bowl section doesn\u2019t last particularly long, and the lower half of the lift line mainly includes glades and tree-defined trails. However, Keystone was long one of the only serious Colorado destinations to not offer any lift-served bowls at all, and the resort finally checks that box.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"\n              sqs-block-image-figure\n              intrinsic\n            \"><\/p>\n<p>                <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/3e264faa-b6bc-4c8a-8be2-5fb2bf7d295d\/keystonebergmanbowlhighalpine4.jpg\" data-image-dimensions=\"2500x1406\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"2500\" height=\"1406\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/keystonebergmanbowlhighalpine4.jpg\"><figcaption class=\"image-caption-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"\">With the recent Bergman Bowl expansion, Keystone finally offers lift-served high-alpine bowl terrain, though this new terrain can\u2019t quite compete with the best in the state.<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Beginner Terrain<\/h3>\n<p class=\"\">On paper, Keystone looks like a pretty good ski destination resort for beginners. The resort offers top-to-bottom green-rated skiing on its Dercum Mountain front side, and the new Bergman Bowl expansion adds the stunning new Ten Mile green trail, which offers stunning panoramas and an above-treeline experience that\u2019s really hard to come by on terrain of this ability level. The Bergman Bowl project has also added a green route down to the Ruby and Santiago Express lifts for the first time, making the back side a lot more accessible to beginners than it used to be. But while Keystone\u2019s green runs might look compelling on the surface, the resort is hampered by a limited quantity of this type of terrain, with only one primary green route down from each of the Dercum and Bergman Bowl areas. While the expanded footprint has helped, guests will still want to prepare for extensive congestion on the Dercum side\u2019s Schoolmarm run. One will be hard pressed to find any other singular trail that experiences the same density of skier traffic as Schoolmarm\u2014especially at the end of the day\u2014so if one is proficient enough to do so, it\u2019s prudent to avoid this trail at all costs.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"\n              sqs-block-image-figure\n              intrinsic\n            \"><\/p>\n<p>                <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/bde6a8cf-f7ea-431e-b220-3732f6b5fc39\/KeystoneTenMile.png\" data-image-dimensions=\"1918x1078\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"1918\" height=\"1078\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/KeystoneTenMile.png\"><figcaption class=\"image-caption-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"\">Keystone\u2019s beginner terrain is somewhat limited, though the new Ten Mile green trail offers a uniquely stunning high-alpine experience.<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Intermediate Terrain<\/h3>\n<p class=\"\">Keystone becomes a substantially more compelling mountain for skiers and riders of intermediate proficiency. Every mountain area is home to moderately-sloped cruisers, with a range of traditional below-treeline trails, gladed runs, and high-alpine bowls available throughout the resort. A few blue trails throughout the North Peak, Bergman Bowl, and Outback areas often remain ungroomed, making for solid environments to learn moguls. While not egregiously overrated, some of Keystone\u2019s blues are on the steeper side, and might be rated as blacks at certain competing ski resorts.<\/p>\n<h3>Terrain Parks<\/h3>\n<p class=\"\">Keystone also offers a pretty compelling terrain park, but it\u2019s not exactly the world-class setup that existed in previous years. The Area 51 park is designed with progression in mind, and it offers a range of rollers, boxes, rails, and jumps ranging from extra-small to large. But the massive superpipes and jumps of years\u2019 past seem to have been relegated to the history books, with the park taking more of a family-friendly shape than one designed for the pros.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>RECOMMENDED SKIS FOR KEYSTONE<\/strong><\/h3>\n<hr \/>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-small\">NOTE: We may receive a small affiliate commission if you click on the below links. All products listed below are <strong>unisex.<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"\n              sqs-block-image-figure\n              intrinsic\n            \"><\/p>\n<p>                <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/18b0ea06-e3b2-454a-8e6d-ac6fb7597fe6\/700_219243_965137.png\" data-image-dimensions=\"700x700\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/700_219243_965137.png\"><figcaption class=\"image-caption-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?merchant_id=33a96c45-e1ba-48ba-8258-f6d85aa68cfa&amp;tt=cl&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.evo.com%2Foutlet%2Fskis%2Fsalomon-qst-92-2023%3Fimage%3D219243%2F965140%2Fsalomon-qst-92-skis-2023-.jpg%26gclid%3DEAIaIQobChMIqJaKrovY_wIVk-zICh2nnAjjEAQYAyABEgKHpvD_BwE&amp;website_id=a15c7b6a-8444-4c18-91fa-97a642d704ff\"><strong>Salomon QST 92<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"\"><strong>Recommended intermediate ski<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"\n              sqs-block-image-figure\n              intrinsic\n            \"><\/p>\n<p>                <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/51518750-4a39-4ab9-8324-c7906e7998c9\/700_227085_915719.png\" data-image-dimensions=\"700x700\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/700_227085_915719.png\"><figcaption class=\"image-caption-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?merchant_id=33a96c45-e1ba-48ba-8258-f6d85aa68cfa&amp;tt=cl&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.evo.com%2Foutlet%2Fskis%2Fvolkl-m6-mantra-2023&amp;website_id=a15c7b6a-8444-4c18-91fa-97a642d704ff\"><strong>Volkl M6 Mantra<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"\"><strong>Recommended advanced ski<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"\n              sqs-block-image-figure\n              intrinsic\n            \"><\/p>\n<p>                <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/1970f9b6-f7e1-4215-bcde-ea0bb802944e\/700_241139_1013058.png\" data-image-dimensions=\"700x700\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/700_241139_1013058.png\"><figcaption class=\"image-caption-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?merchant_id=33a96c45-e1ba-48ba-8258-f6d85aa68cfa&amp;tt=cl&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.evo.com%2Fskis%2Fblack-crows-atris&amp;website_id=a15c7b6a-8444-4c18-91fa-97a642d704ff\"><strong>Black Crows Atris<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"\"><strong>Recommended high-alpine ski<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"\n              sqs-block-image-figure\n              intrinsic\n            \"><\/p>\n<p>                <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/5bed4cf4-200f-485a-b76b-8f9c351789f2\/700_216620_985587.png\" data-image-dimensions=\"700x700\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/700_216620_985587.png\"><figcaption class=\"image-caption-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?merchant_id=33a96c45-e1ba-48ba-8258-f6d85aa68cfa&amp;tt=cl&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.evo.com%2Foutlet%2Fskis%2Fblizzard-rustler-10-2023&amp;website_id=a15c7b6a-8444-4c18-91fa-97a642d704ff\"><strong>Blizzard Rustler 10<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"\"><strong>Recommended powder ski<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3>Advanced Terrain<\/h3>\n<p class=\"\">In today\u2019s world, Keystone is perhaps best suited for advanced skiers and riders. Once one gets beyond the fairly mellow front side, the resort is home to a range of long, trying bump runs that really put a strain on one\u2019s endurance. Guests will find an abundance of advanced tree terrain all around the resort as well, with the most standout trees existing in the North Peak and Outback areas thanks to varying glade widths and better powder retention than the front side. The Bergman Bowl lift has opened up access to a huge swath of advanced bowls and glades that used to be hike-to only, and the difficulty of traversing to these sections mean they still hold snow fairly well. The resort also grooms a handful of black runs on a regular basis, and combined with the sheer length of some of these trails, this allows for some of the fastest bombable trail segments anywhere in North America. But don\u2019t actually try to bomb these runs, because Keystone\u2019s safety patrol will pull your pass.<\/p>\n<h3>Expert Terrain<\/h3>\n<p class=\"\">Keystone isn\u2019t half bad for expert visitors either, although it wouldn\u2019t be our first pick for those looking for truly extreme terrain. Keystone\u2019s most demanding trails are its Windows glades, which involve especially steep pitches and obstacles such as bare rocks, tree stumps, and a few hidden cliffs. But besides these few out-of-the-way glades, Keystone is much more of an endurance mountain than a technically challenging one, and those looking for especially hair-raising features may want to go elsewhere.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"\n              sqs-block-image-figure\n              intrinsic\n            \"><\/p>\n<p>                <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/71527022-de38-4f89-9e20-d7f6b64dbb38\/keystoneeriksonbowl.jpeg\" data-image-dimensions=\"3840x2160\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"3840\" height=\"2160\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/keystoneeriksonbowl.jpeg\"><figcaption class=\"image-caption-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"\">Keystone is probably best suited for advanced skiers and riders, with a wide variety of black diamond bowls, glades, and groomers to be found throughout the mountain.<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Hike-to Terrain<\/h3>\n<p class=\"\">Even with the new Bergman Bowl lift, a handful of Keystone\u2019s advanced and expert resort areas remain hike-to only. The North and South Peak areas off the Outback lift still mostly require hiking to reach, as do parts of the Windows trees. The north face of the Independence Bowl can be reached from the Bergman chair but still requires hiking to get out of, and if one wants to ski or ride the south face of this bowl, one must actually hike twice\u2014the first time up from the bottom of the Independence Bowl basin to actually get to the runs in this area, and then the second time to actually get back to the lifts. But at least in the case of the ones that aren\u2019t heinously time and energy consuming, the hikes can be well worth it. In the case of the Windows and Outback hikes, a 5-10 minute uphill jaunt can bring you to some amazing powder troves. And if one does end up hiking all the way to the most remote mountain areas, the terrain is as isolated as one will ever get within the bounds of an actual ski resort. Speaking of remoteness\u2014Keystone\u2019s longest hikes can take quite some time to complete, and the resort starts closing them daily as early as 1pm, so be sure to get a move on if you want to do one of them during your day at the resort.<\/p>\n<h3>Discontinuation of Cat Skiing<\/h3>\n<p class=\"\">Unfortunately, one of the casualties of Keystone\u2019s new Bergman Bowl lift has been its cat skiing experiences. While the resort used to offer a range of per-ride and private snowcat trips, these unique opportunities are now a thing of the past, meaning that anyone who wants to access terrain that isn\u2019t served directly by lift won\u2019t be able to bypass the hikes with a snowcat anymore.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"\n              sqs-block-image-figure\n              intrinsic\n            \"><\/p>\n<p>                <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/d2df857c-b2e0-47da-8472-ad0a6bced031\/keystoneindependencebowlgate.jpeg\" data-image-dimensions=\"3840x2160\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"3840\" height=\"2160\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/keystoneindependencebowlgate.jpeg\"><figcaption class=\"image-caption-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"\">While the new Bergman Bowl lift has resulted in the elimination of Keystone\u2019s cat skiing, there are still a handful of hike-to areas to be found.<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>On-Mountain Facilities<\/h3>\n<p class=\"\">But at least after a day of hiking, Keystone offers a number of convenient lodges to stop in at across Dercum Mountain and North Peak. These are your typical ski resort cafeterias without much in the way of a local feel, but the three mid-mountain lodges are generally equipped for the demand, and the two North Peak options offer generous outdoor seating that allows for sunbathing on nice days. Food options are pricey and for the most part just okay in quality, but if you do have to stop in, the barbeque at Labonte\u2019s Cabin, which is at the bottom of the Ruby and Santiago lifts, is pretty good.<\/p>\n<h3>Ease of Navigation<\/h3>\n<p class=\"\">Despite its magnitude, getting around lift-serviced areas at Keystone isn\u2019t horrible thanks to clear signage and well-placed lifts. However, it does take a long time and multiple lifts to travel to the furthest mountain areas by nature of the resort\u2019s stacked-mountain design. Most frontside and North Peak trails do have enough of a slope to allow guests to keep their speed, but the feeder run down into Outback is pretty flat, and it can require some catwalking if you\u2019re not careful. It\u2019s worth noting that cell service in the Outback area is pretty much nonexistent, so be careful not to lose people in your group when you\u2019re out there.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"\n              sqs-block-image-figure\n              intrinsic\n            \"><\/p>\n<p>                <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/d76129c6-502b-4517-879a-ff0c2a9e8d84\/KeystoneFacilities.png\" data-image-dimensions=\"1919x1079\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"1919\" height=\"1079\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/KeystoneFacilities.png\"><figcaption class=\"image-caption-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"\">Keystone offers a number of convenient on-mountain lodges for skiers and riders in need of food and rest, although the remote Outback area is a bit far from the nearest lodge.<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Lifts and Crowd Flow<\/h3>\n<p class=\"\">Thanks to a fleet of mostly high-speed lifts and two gondolas, the lift setup at Keystone mostly impresses. The ride up from the bases to the top of Dercum Mountain is a long one, but it\u2019s held down by the River Run eight-passenger gondola, a lift route consisting of two six-packs, and one high-speed quad that mainly functions in a helper capacity. Every major lift on North Peak is high-speed as well, as is the isolated Outback Express. There are multiple lift options at most major junctions, leading to very few resort chokepoints, which helps control crowds on busy days\u2014which Keystone sees a lot of during peak times. The new Bergman Express six-pack is a great addition to Keystone\u2019s lift fleet, providing quick transportation to the high-alpine and expanding the resort\u2019s lift-served vertical drop by an additional 220 feet.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"\">But there\u2019s one exception to Keystone\u2019s modern lift infrastructure. The only way to exit the Outback area is by taking the Wayback fixed-grip quad, an exasperatingly slow lift that somehow hasn\u2019t been upgraded over the years. There are no lodges or facilities at Outback, so anyone trying to escape an influx of bad weather or just needing a break will have to bear through this lift. The pressure on this lift has only increased this year, with some of the advanced-level trails from the Bergman Bowl lift filtering directly down to it. Riding this thing feels especially punishing after a day of exclusively detachable lifts. Rumors of an upgrade have been swirling for years, but nothing has materialized.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"\n              sqs-block-image-figure\n              intrinsic\n            \"><\/p>\n<p>                <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/0affbeac-0e32-4ad7-b5a2-f2c98b279825\/KeystoneWaybackLift.png\" data-image-dimensions=\"1918x1078\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"1918\" height=\"1078\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/KeystoneWaybackLift.png\"><figcaption class=\"image-caption-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"\">Keystone is served by an impressive network of high-speed chairlifts and gondolas, but a ride on the slow, fixed-grip Wayback chair is required to exit the Outback area.<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Night Skiing<\/h3>\n<p class=\"\">It\u2019s worth noting that Keystone offers night skiing, a rarity among major Rocky Mountain resorts. Typically open Fridays, Saturdays, and holidays, the experience offers only limited terrain but covers the entire vertical of Dercum Mountain and the whole A51 terrain park. However, night skiing hours have decreased in recent years, and operations now only go until 7pm, rather than the previous 8, 9, and even 10pm close times of years\u2019 past. In addition, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday night skiing outside of holiday periods have been relegated to the history books as well. As a result of these circumstances, it\u2019s a lot harder to take advantage of Keystone for some after-hours turns than it used to be.<\/p>\n<h3>Getting There<\/h3>\n<p class=\"\">Like other I-70 Corridor ski areas, Keystone\u2019s closest city is Denver. With no traffic, the resort is about two hours from the Denver International Airport\u2014however, weekend drives often come with serious backups on Interstate 70, which is the only practical road to the resort from the east. Visitors can also fly into the Eagle County Regional Airport, which is just over an hour from the resort but typically pricier to fly into. A number of shuttle services exist to and from both airports.<\/p>\n<h3>Parking<\/h3>\n<p class=\"\">Keystone offers a decent amount of free parking at its River Run base area, although the slopeside lot does fill up quickly during weekends and holidays. Once the River Run lot fills up, guests can park in overflow lots with shuttle service to the slopes. If you don\u2019t want to take the shuttle and the free lot is full, Keystone does offer some preferred parking too, as well as a few priority spots reserved for carpools of four or more or families carrying kids 12 or under.<\/p>\n<h3>RECOMMENDED SNOWBOARDS FOR KEYSTONE<\/h3>\n<hr \/>\n<p class=\"sqsrte-small\">NOTE: We may receive a small affiliate commission if you click on the below links. All products listed below are <strong>unisex.<\/strong><\/p>\n<figure class=\"\n              sqs-block-image-figure\n              intrinsic\n            \"><\/p>\n<p>                <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/e89de447-598c-4835-8f31-21ddfb6b9cec\/700_225325_996953.png\" data-image-dimensions=\"700x700\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/700_225325_996953.png\"><figcaption class=\"image-caption-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?merchant_id=33a96c45-e1ba-48ba-8258-f6d85aa68cfa&amp;tt=cl&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.evo.com%2Foutlet%2Fsnowboards%2Flib-tech-skate-banana-btx-snowboard-blem&amp;website_id=a15c7b6a-8444-4c18-91fa-97a642d704ff\"><strong>Lib Tech Skate Banana BTX<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"\"><strong>Recommended intermediate board<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"\n              sqs-block-image-figure\n              intrinsic\n            \"><\/p>\n<p>                <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/1a344806-b3a9-458a-b239-101d9d996ecf\/700_220787_899460.png\" data-image-dimensions=\"700x700\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/700_220787_899460.png\"><figcaption class=\"image-caption-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?merchant_id=33a96c45-e1ba-48ba-8258-f6d85aa68cfa&amp;tt=cl&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.evo.com%2Foutlet%2Fsnowboards%2Flib-tech-trice-apex-orca-snowboard-2023&amp;website_id=a15c7b6a-8444-4c18-91fa-97a642d704ff\"><strong>Lib Tech T.Rice Apex Orca<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"\"><strong>Recommended advanced board<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"\n              sqs-block-image-figure\n              intrinsic\n            \"><\/p>\n<p>                <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/25a08bcb-cee0-482f-be54-2674668e06f6\/700_236977_1019148.png\" data-image-dimensions=\"700x700\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/700_236977_1019148.png\"><figcaption class=\"image-caption-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?merchant_id=33a96c45-e1ba-48ba-8258-f6d85aa68cfa&amp;tt=cl&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.evo.com%2Fsnowboards%2Fride-superpig-snowboard&amp;website_id=a15c7b6a-8444-4c18-91fa-97a642d704ff\"><strong>Ride Superpig<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"\"><strong>Recommended high-alpine board<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"\n              sqs-block-image-figure\n              intrinsic\n            \"><\/p>\n<p>                <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/039442f7-2608-48a9-a6a5-b7277319bc37\/700_237607_1016894.png\" data-image-dimensions=\"700x700\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"700\" height=\"700\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/700_237607_1016894.png\"><figcaption class=\"image-caption-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"sqsrte-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?merchant_id=33a96c45-e1ba-48ba-8258-f6d85aa68cfa&amp;tt=cl&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.evo.com%2Fsnowboards%2Fjones-aviator-20-snowboard&amp;website_id=a15c7b6a-8444-4c18-91fa-97a642d704ff\"><strong>Jones Aviator 2.0<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"\"><strong>Recommended powder board<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3>Lodging<\/h3>\n<p class=\"\">For those looking to stay on site, Keystone offers plenty of options. The resort isn\u2019t exactly bargain basement, but hotels and condos are more reasonably priced for what you get than at competing mountains, and they often have hot tubs or pools. There are some solid hotels and townhomes within a short driving distance of the resort, but don\u2019t expect a true town outside the base village like you\u2019ll find at Breckenridge.<\/p>\n<h3>Apr\u00e8s-Ski<\/h3>\n<p class=\"\">Thanks to its walkable base village and some nearby bars and restaurants on the access road, Keystone offers an enjoyable apr\u00e8s-ski scene. Multiple happy-hour bars can be found in the base village, and on various nights, visitors will find a few bars with live music, DJs, or even trivia. However, Keystone\u2019s apr\u00e8s scene isn\u2019t nearly as extensive as that of nearby Breckenridge or even Vail, and those visiting for more than a day or two may start to feel limited in terms of available activities.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"\n              sqs-block-image-figure\n              intrinsic\n            \"><\/p>\n<p>                <img decoding=\"async\" data-stretch=\"false\" data-image=\"https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/5e7a324590664f18b1bfea0c\/a7b4620f-480d-4f6d-84c0-2e9a09e1db07\/KeystoneBowlTerrain.png\" data-image-dimensions=\"1919x1079\" data-image-focal-point=\"0.5,0.5\" alt=\"\" data-load=\"false\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" width=\"1919\" height=\"1079\" loading=\"lazy\" data-loader=\"sqs\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/KeystoneBowlTerrain.png\"><figcaption class=\"image-caption-wrapper\">\n<p class=\"\">Keystone offers unique, varied terrain, and recent resort upgrades have made the resort more competitive with some of the better known ski areas in Colorado.<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>Verdict<\/h2>\n<p class=\"\">Ultimately, Keystone offers a uniquely-designed footprint, excellent glade and mogul terrain, and thanks to the new Bergman Bowl lift, some of the best lower-level bowl terrain in the state of Colorado. But while it\u2019s gotten a lot more competitive, Keystone still doesn\u2019t have quite the lift-served skiable footprint or quality of expert terrain to beat out the best resorts in the state. Some people won\u2019t be able to get enough of the terrain here, while others may find this resort better as a day trip from another nearby mountain.<\/p>\n<h3>Pricing<\/h3>\n<p class=\"\">Keystone\u2019s lift ticket prices have historically been lower than that of other Colorado competitors, but the lift tickets these days are just plain ridiculous, with 1-day adult rates now going for up to $269 if you buy at the window in March or on a holiday. <\/p>\n<p class=\"\">Keystone is on the Epic Pass, including the Epic Day Pass product which is essentially just a flexible day ticket, so if you plan on visiting Keystone next year, be sure to pick up one of these products before they\u2019re off sale in early December.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>MOUNTAIN SCORE &nbsp; #9 in Colorado 72 &nbsp; #18 Overall WRITTEN REVIEW MOUNTAIN STATS RECENT ARTICLES VIDEO REVIEW CATEGORY BREAKDOWN&nbsp; See our criteria 8 Snow: 8 Resiliency: 8 Size: 8 Terrain Diversity: 6 Challenge: 6 Lifts: 7 Crowd Flow: 7 Facilities: 6 Navigation: 8 Mountain Aesthetic: GOOD TO KNOW 1-Day Ticket: $169-$269 Pass Affiliation: Epic [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":726,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[11],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-724","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-mountain"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/724"}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=724"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/724\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":736,"href":"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/724\/revisions\/736"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/726"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=724"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=724"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/elite-escort.me\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=724"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}