In operation since 1970, Keystone is a family-oriented resort on the Snake River 5 miles east of Dillon on US Hwy 6. It attracts downhill and cross-country skiers as early as mid-to-late October, while other ski areas are still waiting for snow.
Keystone is definitely a resort in that almost all accommodations, restaurants and services are owned and operated by a single company (um, that would be the eerily ubiquitous Vail Resorts). As a result, while the base area lacks the character and variety of real ski towns such as Breckenridge and Aspen, Keystone has been well planned and it is easy to book reservations and get information.
The nicer west village is known as River Run, and though you can access about 100 miles of spectacular bike trails from here, it is a ghost town in late summer. But it is quite picturesque, tucked up against steep pine-draped slopes accessible summer and winter. The east village, Keystone Village, is where you'll find more winter lifts, two golf courses, a medical clinic and plenty of condos for rent.
