What to Do in the Summer in Keystone, Colorado

Keystone, Colorado is know for its fantastic skiing during the winter months, but it’s also great for a summer getaway. The cheap summer lodging and outdoor activities make the Keystone Resort the perfect destination for a summer vacation. Wondering what Keystone has to offer in the warmer months? Read on.

Ride a Gondola Up the Mountain

You can take the gondola part-way up the mountain and hike down. If you’re not up for hiking, you can sit back and enjoy the stunning view of the Rockies while riding up the mountain and back down. Hop off at the top for some great photos ops.

Go Mountain Biking

One of the first things you’ll notice upon arriving in Keystone is the abundance of mountain bikers. There are trails everywhere. Hardcore mountain bikers even take their bikes up the ski lifts and bike down the mountain. You don’t have to be a daredevil to try out mountain biking, though. Keystone offers mountain biking for all skill levels.

Try Out Tubing at Adventure Point

Snow tubing in the summer? Yep! It’s great for kids and adults will love it, too. Read about what to expect – and don’t forget your sunblock!

Grab a Beer and Burger at Pug Ryan’s Steakhouse & Brewery

If you’re a beer fan, stopping at Pug Ryan’s in Silverthorne is a must. Sip their award-winning brews on the outdoor patio overlooking the Rockies, and sample their delicious family-friendly food offerings. I highly recommend the fish and chips and the Uptown Dillon Burger. They’re open for lunch and draught beers are $2 all day Sunday.

Indulge with an Ice Cream Sandwich at Blue Moon Bakery

After you finish your burger at Pug’s, head over to Blue Moon Bakery for tasty baked goods. The cookie ice cream sandwich is delicious and is sure to go over well with kids and adults alike.

Check Out Zip Lining or Rock Climbing

If you’re an adventurous traveler, consider adding zip lining or rock climbing to your itinerary. It’s pricey (starting at $88 for adults and $77 for kids), but it’s sure to be an experience your kids won’t soon forget!

Hike Around Loveland Pass

For breathtaking views and a number of hiking options, check out Loveland Pass. It’s just over 8 miles from the River Run base area in Keystone and you can bike or drive to the summit and hike around from there. As the signs will tell you, Loveland Pass is on the Continental Divide. From the pass, you’ll have great 360 views of the mountains and flora.

Rent Paddle Boats at Lakeside Village

Lakeside Village feels a little touristy, but the scenery isn’t bad. Soak up the sun while you paddle around the small lake with your family.

Have a Rafting Adventure

Rafting is a popular summer activity for visitors to Keystone Resort. There are river rafting adventures for all skill levels and you can even find kid-friendly options. I vividly remember going rafting with my family near Keystone when I was 12. I was being a typical preteen — not happy to be seen with my parents and determined not to have fun — but once I got on the raft, I had a blast.

Experience a Guided Tour on Horseback

Regardless of your skill level, you can go on a guided tour of Arapahoe National Forest on horseback at the Keystone Stables. The tour is a fun way to take in the scenery and learn about the area’s history. Plus, there are pony rides for the little ones.

Picnic by the Dillon Reservoir

Pack a picnic lunch, then rent bikes or drive west on Route 6 to the Dillon Reservoir. Take in the beautiful mountain and lake scenery during your leisurely lunch. There’s also fishing at the Reservoir if you have a Colorado fishing license.

Affordable lodging and plentiful outdoor activities make Keystone Resort in Colorado a great summer vacation destination. Still not sure about spending your summer vacation at a ski resort? Read this post to learn why you should give it a go.

Have you been to Keystone, Colorado in the summer? What activities did you do?

Photo credit: Keystone Resort, Amy Whitley

Recommended Reading:

1. Why You Should Spend Your Summer Vacation at a Ski Resort
2. 5 River Rafting Adventures to Check Out this Summer
3. 50 Summer Vacation Ideas for Family Travel
4. 8 Tips for Going Green This Summer
5. Summer Festival Guide 2012