Keystone, Colorado, a name synonymous with winter wonderlands and exhilarating ski slopes, undergoes a remarkable transformation when the snow melts. Nestled high in the Rocky Mountains, above 10,000 feet, this celebrated ski resort sheds its icy cloak and emerges as a vibrant hub of summer activity. The slopes once carved by skiers and snowboarders become verdant playgrounds for hikers and mountain bikers, while the town center awakens with the lively rhythms of festivals and the soulful melodies of live music. Summer in Keystone offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of this mountain destination without the peak-season prices, all while immersing yourself in the abundant natural wonders and thrilling adventures that await. More than just a ski town, Keystone is brimming with opportunities for unforgettable summer experiences.
Here, we present ten exceptional ways to embrace the warmth and splendor of summer in Keystone, Colorado:
1. Saddle Up: Horseback Riding and Wagon Ride Dinners
For those with a penchant for equestrian pursuits, Keystone Stables presents an idyllic way to spend a summer afternoon. Embark on guided horseback riding tours that wind their way up Soda Ridge, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. Alternatively, opt for a leisurely horse-drawn wagon ride through the picturesque Soda Creek Valley, a perfect option for families with younger children.
The stables also offer pony rides, an excellent way to create lasting memories for little ones. However, the crown jewel of Keystone Stables is undoubtedly the wagon ride dinner experience. Unlike a standard scenic tour, this adventure takes you on a horse-drawn wagon to a charming homestead, where you’ll be treated to a delectable sit-down dinner accompanied by live musical entertainment. While adults savor the breathtaking scenery and relaxing atmosphere, children can engage in classic cowboy games like horseshoes and rope wrangling, adding a touch of rustic fun to the evening.
2. Conquer Loveland Pass: Hiking Amidst Majestic Peaks
Lace up your hiking boots and prepare for an unforgettable trek along Loveland Pass, a high-altitude marvel that straddles the Continental Divide. The Grizzly Peak Trailhead marks the starting point of this popular hike, best enjoyed between June and October. This four-mile out-and-back trail rewards hikers with awe-inspiring views of the pass, a critical artery connecting the eastern and western slopes of the Rockies.
The Continental Divide, a formidable chain of elevated terrain, stretches from the icy reaches of the Bering Sea in Alaska, through the rugged Rocky Mountains, and down to the majestic Andes in South America. This hike, while challenging due to its steep and rocky terrain, culminates in breathtaking vistas of Grizzly Gulch and the serene Chihuahua Lake, perched at an impressive altitude of 13,000 feet above sea level. The panoramic views and sense of accomplishment make the effort well worth it.
3. Beat the Heat: Summer Snow Tubing Adventure
Escape the summer heat with a unique and exhilarating experience: snow tubing in the heart of summer. Keystone Resort stands apart as the only place in Colorado where you can enjoy this winter activity year-round. Head to Adventure Point, located high atop Dercum Mountain at an elevation of 11,640 feet, where snow persists even under the summer sun.
A multi-lane tubing hill awaits, easily accessible via a convenient lift, allowing you to maximize your time sliding down the slopes. The high altitude ensures a consistent layer of snow, providing the perfect conditions for a thrilling tubing adventure. Due to its popularity, advance reservations are highly recommended to secure your spot on the slopes.
4. Tee Off: Golfing at Keystone Resort
For golf enthusiasts, Keystone Resort offers a premier golfing destination with its exceptional 36-hole facility. The resort boasts two distinct courses: the River Course and Keystone Ranch, each presenting unique challenges and stunning scenery. Golfing at high altitude introduces a new dimension to the game, with the thinner air allowing for greater distances on your shots.
Even if you don’t achieve your usual par, the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains are a rewarding consolation. For those seeking to improve their skills, lessons and clinics are available, catering to all levels of experience. On Saturday mornings, the Breakfast Club offers a unique opportunity to combine a group lesson with a delicious breakfast, providing the perfect start to a day on the greens.
5. Ride the Trails: Mountain Biking Excursions
As the mountain snow recedes, Keystone’s landscape transforms into a haven for mountain biking enthusiasts. Keystone Bike Park caters to riders of all skill levels, offering a safe and controlled environment for beginners to learn the fundamentals. Bike 101 provides instruction on essential skills such as balance, shifting gears, and speed control.
Experienced riders can explore a variety of challenging trails, including the intermediate Soda Park Loop and the more demanding Blair Witch Loop. These trails offer exhilarating descents and stunning views, promising an unforgettable mountain biking experience. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice rider, Keystone has a trail to suit your abilities and preferences.
6. Lakeside Bliss: Exploring Keystone Lake
Experience the best of both worlds with a combination of mountain scenery and refreshing aquatic activities. Keystone Resort is fortunate to have its own alpine lake, offering a range of water-based adventures. Visitors can enjoy stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, or paddle boating on the serene waters of Keystone Lake.
A leisurely bike ride around the lake provides a relaxing way to soak in the stunning surroundings. Even in summer, alpine water can be quite cold, so be prepared for a brisk swim. For a picturesque view of the lake, stop by Edgewater Cafe & Deli for a meal or a refreshing happy hour cocktail.
7. Find Your Zen: Mountaintop Yoga
Elevate your yoga practice with a unique and invigorating experience: mountaintop yoga. Studio K, a reputable yoga studio in Keystone, offers mountaintop yoga sessions in addition to its regular schedule of fitness classes. At this high altitude, finding your inner peace is effortless as you perform sun salutations while gazing at the breathtaking views of the Ten-Mile Range.
Even if outdoor yoga isn’t your preference, Studio K offers a diverse range of classes, from Yin and Restorative Yoga to Pilates and Mountain Dancing. Complimentary mats are provided, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.
8. Culinary Heights: Elevated Dining Experiences
Keystone is not only an outdoor adventure destination but also a foodie paradise, boasting a plethora of award-winning dining options. Celebrate a special occasion with an ultra-romantic dinner atop the mountain, or embark on a horse-drawn wagon ride to a quintessential Colorado meal.
The exceptional cuisine is enhanced by the enchanting ambiance and meticulous attention to detail, elevating the dining experience to new heights. A standout establishment is Alpenglow Stube, the highest AAA Four-Diamond restaurant in North America. Accessible via a scenic gondola ride to the top of North Peak, this restaurant features award-winning chefs preparing Bavarian-inspired dishes. Alpenglow Stube is renowned as one of the finest dining establishments in any ski town, worldwide. If Alpenglow Stube is closed, Bighorn Bistro & Lounge is another popular choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
9. Embrace the Freebies: Affordable Fun in Keystone
While mountain towns are often perceived as expensive destinations, Keystone offers a plethora of free and affordable activities, making it accessible to travelers on a budget. The Friday Afternoon Club features a complimentary scenic chairlift ride to the summit of Dercum Mountain. Throughout the week, even paid lift rides remain reasonably priced.
At the top of the mountain, free live music and engaging activities await, complementing the breathtaking views and food and drink specials. The Friday Afternoon Club is the perfect way to unwind and celebrate the end of the week.
10. Discover Keystone, Colorado, This Summer
From thrilling outdoor adventures to serene mountaintop experiences and delectable culinary delights, Keystone offers a diverse range of activities to create unforgettable summer memories. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping excitement or peaceful relaxation, Keystone has something to offer everyone. Escape the ordinary and discover the magic of Keystone this summer.
