Summit County: Places to Explore

Keystone

One of the region's most laid-back destinations, Keystone is understandably popular with families, and as the state's only large resort to offer seasonal night skiing (with lifts running until 9 pm), has long been a local favorite. Its trails are spread across three adjoining peaks: Dercum Mountain, North Peak, and the Outback. Through the years, as the resort added more runs, it morphed from a beginner's paradise on Keystone Mountain to an early-season training stop for the national ski teams that practice on the tougher and bumpier terrain on North Peak. Keystone now also has full-day guided snowcat tours ($225; backcountry ski gear like avalanche beacons, shovels, and probes are provided). Today it's a resort for all types of skiers and riders, whether they prefer gentle slopes, cruising, or high-adrenaline challenges on the Outback's steep bowls.

The planners were sensitive to the environment, favoring colors and materials that blend inconspicuously with the natural surroundings. Lodging, shops, and restaurants are in Lakeside Village, the older part of the resort, and in River Run, a newer area at the base of the gondola that has become the heart of Keystone. Everything at the resort is operated by Keystone, which makes planning a vacation here one-stop shopping.