Opening Weekend for Keystone Resort and Copper Mountain 2013/2014

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This weekend, two popular Colorado resorts opened their lift lines, Keystone Resort and Copper Mountain.  It’s typically the first Friday in November that both of these resorts open.  Early season skiing in Colorado is good for a few things; getting the legs in ski/snowboard shape, getting excited for the season (for snowboarders, this is the equivalent to getting “stoked” for the season bro), and last, early season skiing lift ticket prices if you don’t have a season pass, and early season lodging discounts.

Lodging Options

I was surprised to find out that Keystone Resort has over 800 hotel and condo rooms that they manage and there are options for every budget.  For those looking to save a little dough, the Inn at Keystone is a great option and also allows you to bring your pooch for a small fee of $25 for your entire stay.   This hotel is a 10-15 minute walk to the Gondola at the base or a 5 minute bus ride for those not wanting to walk.   For those looking for top of the line properties, the Timberline Lodge is a great option.  This property is a true ski in ski out lodging option and is what some people refer to as Beaver Creek lodging at Keystone pricing.  For those wanting somewhere in between, there are number of great options.

Early Season Conditions

In true early season skiing, there are only a couple lifts open at Keystone Resort and Copper Mountain.  While skiing at Keystone this weekend, I found there to be plenty of room to ski on the slopes as many of the people are waiting for more snow and until a few more runs open up.  In my experience while skiing this weekend, I found that the runs open were about 70-80% good snow conditions, 20-30% packed and icy, and no rocks from top to bottom which is really nice for those of us who like to keep their equipment in good condition.  Typically it takes a few weeks after opening weekend for more lifts to start opening up, but most of this depends on mother-nature.  And according to the Farmer’s Almanac, it’s supposed to be a good winter in Colorado for snow.

For more information on Keystone Resort and Copper Mountain, please visit KeystoneResort.com and CopperColorado.com