Summer in Keystone: Three Different Adventures
We swear it’s true: Your favorite ski resorts still exist when the snow melts. Denver is warming up this summer, and many locals (and visitors!) are heading to higher elevations to keep cool. Less than 70 miles from Denver, this Colorado treasure is home to some of the best hiking, mountain biking, and most scenic horseback riding in the Rockies in the summer.
Hiking
Whether you want to crush a 14er or meander through a field of wildflowers next to an alpine lake, Keystone area offers some of the best hiking in the state. Looking for a beautiful trail to take the kids hiking? Tenderfoot Mountain is one of our favorite low key hikes in the area. Slow down and enjoy the beautiful wildflowers on this 2.6 mile trail. The Meadow Loop and Ridge Trail is another favorite mellow hike along Lake Dillon. This 3.3 mile trail is perfect for beginner hikers or those acclimating to elevation. Even better, run this trail as the sunsets over the lake. If you are in the mood for a challenge, and hiking a Colorado classic, save a day to hike Grays and Torreys Peak. While this 7.9 mile hike might be considered one of the “easier” 14ers, be prepared to feel the burn from the +3,500ft in elevation gain.
Mountain biking
It’s no secret that some of our favorite bike parks come alive on the mountain after the snow melts. Keystone’s bike park, a freerider’s dream, is no exception. Uh oh- Is the bike park closed during your visit? No fear! There are plenty of beautiful cross country trails in the area. Keystone Gulch to Soda Creek Loop is one of our very favorite trails in the area, as it rolls and climbs across 16 miles. Looking for something slightly more technical with views of Lake Dillon? Check out Chaco’s TenFoot Loop! This is one of the most popular trails in the area, and for good reason.
Horseback riding
What about planning something a little bit out of the norm? Something extra special and adventurous? Take the kids (or, ahem, YOURSELF) for a horseback ride at the Keystone Stables. With the towering mountains in the background, this is certainly an experience you’ll never forget.
Lodging, Dining, and More
Sure, Keystone is a relatively quick drive up from the city, but why not make an overnighter out of your trip? Between the dispersed camping near Keystone, and lodging at the village, there are plenty of options for an overnight adventure getaway. Whether you camp or stay in the village, Inxpot will take care of you for breakfast (get the breakfast burrito!).
While you are surely missing ripping down Bushwacker and Timberwolf, you don’t have to wait until the flakes fly to come back. Keystone is a beautiful adventure center year round. Don’t be a stranger!
Keystone is one of our favorite mountain towns, and we are looking forward to helping you out this winter. Want to read about how we have served others? Here are some reviews! Enjoy your summer, and we’ll see you on the slopes in a few months.
