Keystone

Welcome to Keystone, Colorado

Welcome to Keystone, Colorado, a vibrant mountain town that offers an unforgettable lifestyle in every season. Nestled in the heart of the Rockies, Keystone is home to Keystone Resort, a premier destination known for world-class skiing and snowboarding on three stunning peaks: Dercum, North Peak, and Outback. With over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain spread across three peaks, five bowls, 21 lifts, 140 trails, and night skiing, Keystone Resort caters to every level, from beginner to expert. Keystone’s River Run Village offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and year-round events and activities. Beyond the slopes, enjoy a laid-back mountain lifestyle with easy access to hiking, biking, golfing, and fishing. Whether you’re here for the adventure or the serenity, Keystone’s natural beauty and active lifestyle are sure to captivate you.

Location and Accessibility

Keystone is an easily accessible destination, located 15 minutes from I-70. An alternative route to the area is through Highway 6 over the picturesque Loveland Pass. Most visitors fly into Denver International Airport, about 90 miles to the east, or Eagle County Regional Airport, roughly 65 miles west. From there, you can either rent a car or take advantage of the multiple shuttle services that transport you to Summit County’s picturesque landscape.

Once in Keystone, getting around is a breeze. Keystone Resort offers a complimentary shuttle service, ensuring you’ll move between the slopes, shops, and dining spots without needing your own vehicle

Keystone’s easy access from Denver via I-70 makes it an ideal base for exploring Keystone, Summit County, and westward to Vail and Beaver Creek. Breckenridge, Dillon, Silverthorne, Frisco, and Copper Mountain are located 10-20 minutes from Keystone. Summit County also has the free Summit Stage which will take you to all the towns/resort areas. Lake Dillon is centrally located among all the towns/areas with multiple access points and 2 marinas, Dillon and Frisco.

Ski-in, Ski-out Homes In Keystone, CO

Whatare ski-in, ski-out properties?

Ski-in, ski-out properties are highly sought after for their unmatched convenience. Imagine stepping out of your front door, skiing directly onto the slopes or jumping onto the gondola or ski lifts, and coming home with ease after a long day on the mountain—no shuttles, no long walks, just direct access. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a large group, the ease of a ski-in, ski-out property lets you skip the hassle of lugging gear across long distances.

These homes aren’t limited to just single-family homes—they also include condos, townhomes, and ski lodges. This variety of property types allows you to find the perfect fit, whether you’re looking for a second home, rental property, or a vacation retreat.

Keystone’s Neighborhoods

1. River Run Village
   One of the most popular neighborhoods in Keystone, River Run Village offers more than 14 condominium complexes and Townhomes. It’s a fantastic place to purchase or rent a ski-in, ski-out property, thanks to its proximity to the slopes and a lively atmosphere filled with shops and restaurants. Remember, though, to pop off your skis or board as you walk to some of these properties from the Village.
2. Mountain House
   Keystone’s original base area, Mountain House, boasts some of the finest ski-in, ski-out properties. Many homes here are located just steps from the lifts, ski runs, and day lodges, providing easy access to the mountain.
3. East Keystone
   Known for its tranquil atmosphere, East Keystone offers upscale, luxury residences in a more secluded setting. Properties here range from two- to four-bedroom townhomes to single-family homes, blending modern design with the area’s peaceful surroundings.
4. Lakeside Village
   Hometooneof the largest Zamboni-maintained ice rinks in the U.S. at 5 acres. You will discover a massive Christmas tree in the middle, a hockey rink, and mountain views making it a truly magical place in the winter. In the summer, you can rent paddle boats or stand-up paddle boats and soak up the views. Lakeside Village offers 12 condominium complexes. The Keystone Lodge and Spa and Conference Center are located in the Lakeside Village, offering shops, restaurants, and activities.
5. WestKeystone
   Offering a mix of older, charming homes, condos, and townhomes, West Keystone is perfect for those seeking a quieter, more serene environment. It is slightly removed from the slopes and nestled in the forest and along the Snake River, with easy access to outdoor recreation. West Keystone also has two championship golf courses in its midst: The Ranch and The River courses. Each provides distinct challenges and amazing views. The community also offers some of the most gorgeous single-family homes.
6. North Keystone
   North Keystone offers breathtaking views of Lakeside Village and Keystone Resort Ski Slopes and down valley views west to Buffalo Mountain and the Gore Range, and east towards the Continental Divide. Residents benefit from free shuttle services, making it easy to get around town, even if you’re not right on the slopes. The views, as highlighted above, are expansive and impressive! In addition, North Keystone borders the National Forest, with Tenderfoot Mountain offering a host of hiking and biking trails.

Renting Out Your Home

Owning a homein Keystone offers more than just a personal retreat—it can also be an investment property. With thousands of visitors to Keystone year-round, vacation rentals are in high demand. Winter sports enthusiasts seek out Keystone for its renowned skiing, but the town is equally popular in the warmer months, thanks to its beautiful hiking trails, golf courses, festivals, and outdoor adventures.

Rental income will vary depending on the size, amenities, upgrades, and location of your roperty. Homes on the slopeside are particularly appealing, as they offer guests direct access to the ski slopes.

Many people are also drawn to other locations, such as by the river, near the golf course, or along the border of the National Forest. With such a variety of properties and locations, Keystone offers something for people with different interests.

Things To Do in Keystone, CO

Keystone is more than just a ski town—it’s a four-season destination offering a wide range of outdoor activities, shopping, and dining experiences. Whether you’re carving through fresh powder, exploring scenic hiking trails, or indulging in local cuisine, Keystone has something for everyone.

Skiing in Keystone

Keystone offers 3,149 acres of skiable terrain that caters to all levels of skiing expertise. With a range of slopes to suit everyone, from beginners to advanced skiers, Keystone is a premier spot for winter sports enthusiasts.

• Beginner Skiers: About 12% of Keystone’s slopes are designated as green runs, making them perfect for beginners. Gentle, wide-open trails offer newcomers the chance to learn at their own pace while enjoying the stunning views. Stretching for 3.5 miles from top to bottom, Schoolmarm is one of the most popular beginner/green trails in the area.
• Intermediate Skiers: Keystone’s blue runs, which make up 39% of the terrain, offer a wide variety of thrilling yet manageable slopes for skiers with some experience. From groomed trails to tree skiing, there’s plenty to explore.
• AdvancedSkiers: For the seasoned pros, Keystone’s 49% black diamond runs promise exhilarating challenges. These steep and rugged trails offer some of the most demanding skiing experiences in the area, including tree skiing and deep powder runs.

Explore the Peaks

• DercumMountain: The 11,640-foot Dercum Mountain is home to a mix of beginner and intermediate runs. It’s also where you’ll find the largest Snow Fort in the world—10,000 square feet of fun for the whole family. The mountain is conveniently connected to River Run Village and Mountain House.
• NorthPeak: Rising to 11,660 feet, North Peak is designed for intermediate skiers looking for a challenge. Its rolling blue runs are fun yet tough, with a green family trail providing a more relaxed descent.
• TheOutback: Standing at 11,980 feet, The Outback is the highest of Keystone’s peaks and offers advanced skiers steep, powder-filled runs with plenty of tree skiing for those seeking a thrilling experience.

Beginner Ski Areas

Keystone is a great place for first-time skiers. Several areas are specifically designed to help beginners get comfortable with the sport. Consistently recognized as one of the Top Family Resorts in North America, Keystone has some of the best instructors who will help you improve your skills.

• DercumMountain: The Endeavor and Scout runs offer gentle slopes, along with a “magic carpet” conveyor belt to help beginners get to the top without the difficulty of a lift.
• Mountain House Base Area: Discovery is another beginner-friendly area, located near Mountain House. Here, novice skiers can practice on small hills just steps from the parking lot.

Additionally, Keystone’s Ski and Ride School offers a variety of lessons for all ages, from half-day beginner sessions to full-day deep dives into skiing techniques.

Hiking in Keystone

The fun in Keystone doesn’t end when the snow melts. As the landscape transforms, a new adventure unfolds with trails that reveal breathtaking vistas and a serene connection to nature, making it a true hiking haven.

• DercumMountain Summit Trail: This moderate 2.3-mile trail begins at the top of River Run Gondola and ascends 180 feet, offering expansive views along the way. The trail passes above the Mozart Ski Trail, providing hikers with a stunning journey through alpine landscapes.
• Keystone Gulch Trail: For a more challenging trek, the 15.5-mile Keystone Gulch Trail offers an elevation gain of 683 meters (2,240 feet). Starting near Dillon, Colorado, this loop trail winds through scenic meadows and forests, following a stream with chances to spot local wildlife and seasonal wildflowers. Popular for birding, hiking, and mountain biking, the trail rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It is open year-round and ideal for both active adventurers and those seeking solitude during quieter times.

Downhill Mountain Biking in Keystone

Downhill mountain biking at Keystone, CO, is a premier experience with expertly maintained trails designed for every skill level. It is also consistently among the top mountain biking resorts in North America.

The Keystone Bike Park offers lift-accessed downhill runs, including beginner-friendly paths with smooth bridges and berms, and advanced courses featuring rock gardens, high-speed drops, and technical terrain for thrill-seekers. Keystone also connects to the Colorado Trail, opening up hundreds of miles of single-track riding through Colorado’s dramatic landscapes.

Open from June through September, Keystone’s trails offer accessibility from Thursday through Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., though summer weather may sometimes affect operations.

Warren Station

Warren Station, located in River Run Village, is Keystone’s premier cultural hub, offering year-round concerts, events, and art showcases. With over 7,000 square feet of space, a full-service bar, and an outdoor patio complete with a fire pit and scenic aspen amphitheater, it’s a standout venue for public gatherings, concerts, and intimate mountain weddings.

Keystone Festivals

Starting in June, Keystone hosts the beloved Bacon & Bourbon Festival, offering a unique combination of bacon-inspired dishes, bourbon tastings, and live music. It’s a must-attend event for food and drink enthusiasts, drawing crowds to enjoy the flavors and lively atmosphere in the mountains.

By mid-summer, the Keystone Wine & Jazz Festival brings River Run Village to life as visitors stroll between wine tastings to the sounds of live jazz. The Mountain Town Music Festival celebrates Colorado’s local culture with fresh summer vibes and a focus on harvest traditions.

August welcomes the renowned Bluegrass & Beer Festival, the longest-running craft beer event in the state, with bluegrass tunes across three stages. And, over Labor Day weekend, Keystone’s Oktoberfest caps off the season with family-friendly activities, Kinderfest for kids, and plenty of classic brews and polka for all.

Dining in Keystone

After a day of adventure, Keystone has a fantastic selection of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining.

• Kickapoo Tavern: Located in River Run Village, this lively spot is perfect for unwinding after a long day. Kickapoo Tavern is known for its pub fare, with a patio offering great views and a vibrant atmosphere for cocktails and conversation.
• Inxpot: Part café, part cocktail bar, Inxpot is a laid-back favorite in River Run Village. Whether you’re looking for a filling breakfast, sandwiches, hot coffee, fresh pastries, or an evening cocktail, Inxpot has you covered.
• Lime: AnAmerican cantina located in the River Run Village, Lime offers a wide variety of tequila, margaritas, street tacos, and other staples.
• MontezumaRoadhouse: Centrally located in River Run Village, this modern mountain tavern serves contemporary Americana food and spirits.
• HaywoodCafé: This cozy, laid-back spot is known for its hearty breakfasts, classic American comfort food, and Bacon Bloody Marys. Located near the slopes, it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its friendly atmosphere, generous portions, and TVs.
• SteepBrewing and Coffee Company: For freshly-roasted coffee, Steep is the Keystone-go-to, known and loved for its quality handcrafted beers and a palpable sense of community. It has two locations: one in River Run Village and the other, in the Gateway Building just off Highway 6.
• SnakeRiver Saloon and Steakhouse: Established in 1975, this cozy, upscale restaurant specializes in steak, seafood, and pasta. It’s the ideal spot for a quiet dinner after a day on the slopes, offering a warm, inviting ambiance. Stop by and check out the live music around 9 PM.
• Keystone Ranch: For an unforgettable dining experience, head to Keystone Ranch. Set in a historic building on the Keystone Ranch Golf Course, this restaurant offers a rotating seasonal menu and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
• SkiTip Lodge Restaurant: Originally built as a stagecoach stop for miners in the 1860s, this venue offers monthly rotating four-course meals. Considered one of the top restaurants in Colorado, Ski Tip is the founding location of Arapahoe Basin and Keystone Resort.
• Bighorn Bistro: Located in the Keystone Lodge and Spa, this American bistro serves up a seasonally inspired menu made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The Bighorn also has a lounge bar next to the main restaurant, providing a great setting for relaxing, catching up with family and friends, or making new friends.

Shopping in Keystone

River Run Village during the holidays

Keystone’s River Run Village offers a unique shopping experience, with a mix of stores selling everything from outdoor gear to souvenirs.

• Keystone Sports: Stock up on all your skiing and snowboarding gear here, whether you’re looking to buy or rent equipment.
• KidzCabin: The go-to place for kids’ gear, toys, and storybooks, Kidz Cabin ensures your little ones are outfitted for fun in the mountains.
• Rockin’ R Ranch Trading Post: Need groceries, wine, spirits, or travel essentials? This one-stop shop has everything you need, from food supplies to souvenirs, including jewelry and other keepsakes.
• TheNorthFace: Find top-quality outdoor clothing, outerwear, and accessories designed to withstand Keystone’s mountain weather.
• Christy Sports: This is your destination for ski and snowboard rentals, along with a wide selection of outerwear, helmets, and ski accessories.
• Surefoot: Specializing in custom ski boots, Surefoot combines advanced fitting technology with high-end materials to create boots tailored for ultimate comfort and performance on the mountain. This shop has multiple locations across North America.
• BuildaBear: This new addition lets visitors create a custom stuffed animal to take home as akeepsake from their Keystone adventure, with a wide selection of outfits and accessories for kids and adults alike.
• TheColorado Shop: Alocal favorite for regional gifts, The Colorado Shop features clothes, handcrafted items, and souvenirs celebrating Colorado’s culture and natural beauty.

Discover Keystone Real Estate With Doyle Richmond

If you’re considering making Keystone your permanent residence, a second home, or an investment property, you’ll find exceptional real estate opportunities that cater to a variety of lifestyles. Keystone offers more than just ski-in, ski-out properties; there are numerous options for year-round enjoyment, from cozy mountain cabins to modern condos with stunning alpine views.

Nearby towns like Breckenridge, Dillon, Frisco, Copper Mountain, and Silverthorne expand your choices even further, offering diverse communities and amenities while keeping you close to Keystone’s attractions.

Plus, the area’s strong rental market can provide income potential for those seeking a vacation rental investment.

Whether you’re drawn to Keystone as a summer getaway or a winter haven, it’s a place that offers unmatched convenience and access to mountain adventures year-round.

Ready to start your Keystone journey?

Led by Doyle Richmond and his team at LIV Sotheby’s International Realty, we bring extensive knowledge of Keystone’s real estate market and the greater Summit County area. With over 30 years of experience and expertise in Summit County, Doyle has consistently ranked as one of Colorado’s top brokers. Our approach emphasizes educating people about the market, understanding their needs and preferences, and identifying the best properties to achieve their real estate goals. Whether you’re buying, selling, or renting, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us at 970.390.9240 or doyle(dotted)richmond(at)sothebysrealty(dotted)com. You may also visit doylerichmond.com to get started.