Keystone Resort, located in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, confirmed that its 2026 ski season will begin on Friday, Oct. 30. The opening day will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering guests more than two miles of groomed runs on the Schoolmarm and Silver Spool trails.
Early‑Season Terrain and Access
Resort officials said the early‑season offering includes open terrain, a hike‑to terrain park accessed via the River Run Gondola, and the Montezuma Express chairlift. While uphill access remains closed during the first weeks, the resort plans to gradually open additional runs as snow conditions improve. When lifts are operating, access will be limited to designated routes before and after lift hours.
Night Skiing and Guest Celebration
Keystone boasts the largest night‑skiing operation in the state. Starting on select Fridays, Saturdays and holidays beginning with Thanksgiving, the resort will keep lights on the slopes for evening skiing. To mark the season’s start, guests can descend to the base area for a celebration featuring a live DJ.
New Accommodations and Amenities
The resort announced the opening of its first hotel, the Kindred Resort, situated at the base of the River Run Gondola. In addition, Keystone said it has upgraded its food‑service options and expanded rental equipment selections to better serve visitors.
Leadership Comments
“We’re thrilled to kick off our ski season,” said Shannon Buhler, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Keystone Resort, in the press release. “Opening in October is a huge testament to the tireless and innovative work of our team. Being one of the earliest resorts to open means so much to our employees and guests, and we can’t wait to share the first turns of the season with all of them.”
What Visitors Need to Know
Guests planning to attend the opening day should arrive early to take advantage of the limited lift schedule. The resort encourages visitors to check the official Keystone website for real‑time updates on trail conditions, lift operations and any additional terrain openings throughout the early season.
Community Impact
The early opening is expected to provide a boost to the local economy, creating seasonal jobs and drawing tourists to Summit County ahead of the traditional holiday rush. Local businesses, from restaurants to gear shops, anticipate increased patronage as skiers and snowboarders flock to the mountain for the first snow of the year.
For more details on lift tickets, lodging reservations and upcoming events, please visit Keystone Resort’s official website.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
