Although Keystone Resort closed over 2 weeks ago on Sunday, April 8, a few of the other surrounding area ski resorts are still open!  Spring weather has shifted some attention to summer activities, such as hiking and mountain biking, but the skiing conditions are still great for those looking to add a few more days on the mountain to their season.

Breckenridge Ski Resort recently announced it’s plan to extend its season for two extra weekends past it’s original closing date which was set for April 15.  This upcoming weekend will be the last chance for skiers and riders to enjoy the Breckenridge slopes for the 2011/2012 ski season.  The resort will be open Friday – Sunday, April 27-29. Visitors can take advantage of discounted lift tickets, being offered for just $50 at the ticket window.  Parking for the entire weekend is free and open terrain includes most of Peak 8, including the Imperial Express Super Chair.  Lifts will be running from 9am until 4 pm each day.  Those with season passes will not incur any extra fees during the extended season.  SummitCove is currently offering 30% off already reduced rates for the remainder of April.

Arapahoe Basin’s season is still going strong and typically stays open as long as the snow sticks around.  Last year the resort finally closed down over the 4th of July weekend, making for a 10-month long ski season!  The resort has a great Spring Lineup of events planned, including a new Chili Cook-off, live music every weekend, and its final and most popular spring event, the Festival of Brewpubs on May 27, in its 11th year.   Warm weather conditions make for pleasant skiing conditions at the mountain.  The resort’s infamous ‘Beach’ area has spots available for rental, allowing visitors to park along the base of the mountain and enjoy barbeques and tailgating in between runs. Its always a fun time at The Beach!

Keystone Resort has a host of fun events planned for the end of the season including Saturday’s Volcom Peanut Butter and Rail Jam, the March Concert Series, River Run Rocks! Free Concert Series, and the Keystone Slush Cup on Closing Day.  To sweeten the deal even more, Keystone is offering Buy One, Get One Lift Tickets for the remainder of the ski season when you purchase tickets directly at the window.  Spring skiing conditions are here, which means soft snow, bright sunshine, and warm temperatures.    Nothing beats a fresh goggle tan and enjoying an Après ski beer on one of the many outdoor patios at Keystone!

SummitCove has lowered Spring Season Lodging Rates and is offering an extra 20% off all March reservations and 30% off all April reservations to finish out the ski season.  Some restrictions may apply.  Properties are filling up for closing weekend, so be sure to make your reservation today! For those who can’t get enough of the Spring skiing conditions, nearby Arapahoe Basin Resort stays open indefinitely until the snow melts.  Last season the resort celebrated it’s closing weekend over the 4th of July Holiday Weekend!

Keystone and Summit County skiers and snowboarders on a quest for affordable lift tickets still have a few options this season.   We have rounded up a list of  lift ticket prices during the remainder of the season at Summit County resorts including Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, Copper Mountain, and Breckenridge.

At SummitCove, we recommend that non-pass holders check with Liftopia.com for advance ticket purchases.  It is usually possible to save a couple of dollars by heading to a grocery store on your way to Keystone.  We have also discovered that lift tickets are sold at Walmart.  The most recent prices that have been posted range from $103 for a 1-day Breckenridge and Keystone lift ticket to $494 for a 6 day lift ticket.  Children’s pricing starts at $59 and goes up to $240 for the 6-day option.  Discounted prices are also available for nearby Copper Mountain Resort.

Arapahoe Basin is also offering a perfect option for discounts with he Spring 3 Pass, which is on sale through April 17, 2012.  The pass is valid for 3 days of skiing or riding at Arapahoe Basin ski area through the rest of the 2011/2012 season, which is tentatively scheduled through June.  If skiers or riders use more than 3 days, the pass is reloadable for $54 a day lift passes.

For details about pricing, we recommend that you call ahead to make sure that you understand the options and availability.  This could definitely be a great way to save on late season pricing.  Another great way to save is to take advantage of reduced lodging rates in March, and the SummitCove spring sale.  We are currently offering 30% off on many properties during April ski vacations to Keystone, Breckenridge, A Basin or Copper Mountain.

Contact a SummitCove Vacation Planner today for details about reserving your Keystone Resort lodging.

Keystone Resort has great ski and snowboard conditions, and plenty of Spring Break events lined up.  For anyone who is taking a late March or early April spring break ski trip, there will also be savings!  SummitCove is offering a late season special that gives guests who book 3 nights of lodging in select properties a 4th night free.  Guests that book  5 nights will receive a 6th and 7th night for free.   The special will run from Sunday, March 25th through April 25th.  Though Keystone Resort is scheduled to close on April 8th, Arapahoe Basin is located just minutes from Keystone and will stay open until the snow melts.  Last year, that was July 4th, so there is still plenty of time to ski this season!

There are plenty of events to keep visitors to SummitCove busy later in the season.  Take a look at the schedule below:

• 3/22 High Five Live at Snake River Saloon
• 3/24 Live Music Saturdays at Arapahoe Basin featuring Todd Johnson
• 3/24 Keystone March Concert Series featurning Naive Melodies, a Talking Heads Tribute Band
• 3/31 The Congress at Snake River Saloon
• 3/31 Live Music Saturdays at Arapahoe Basin featuring Todd Johnson
• 3/31 Keystone March Concert Series: 40 oz. to Freedom,  Sublime Tribute Band
• 3/31: Volcom Peanut Butter & Rail Jam
• 4/7: River Run Rocks! Free Concert Series: Sam Bush
• 4/7: Live Music Saturdays at A-Basin: Colin Kelly
• 4/7: Moonlight Dinner Series at A-Basin
• 4/8: Keystone Slush Cup & Closing Day
• 4/8: Beach’N Egg Hunt at A-Basin
• 4/14: Save Our Snow Celebration at A-Basin

If you are ready to reserve your Keystone, Colorado lodging, contact a SummitCove Vacation Planner today, and be sure to ask about the Spring Stay and Save promotion!

The 2011/2012 Ski and Snowboard season has seen a large increase in programs specifically designed for women throughout Summit County.  Keystone Resort has seen tremendous success in women’s programs since adding Betty Fest to it’s event line up, even increasing the program this year.  Women who love the mountains and enjoy winter recreation are in luck, because Keystone and other Summit County ski areas are adding more and more activities and programs geared toward the ladies. Here’s a rundown of current programs that you may want to check out!  It’s a great opportunity to plan a girl’s getaway with some friends and family!

There is still one more Betty Fest weekend at Keystone from Saturday, March 3rd to Sunday, March 4th.  This all-women’s program includes on hill training through Keystone’s stellar Ski and Ride school.  It also includes video analysis and discussions about nutrition and equipment geared specifically toward women.  This is a great opportunity to fine tune your skiing or riding skills with other women in a supportive environment.  Call 970.496.4170 for details on the final Betty Fest of the 2011/2012 season!

This program is run through the Copper Ski and Ride school throughout the ski season.  Women from their late 20′s to 60′s participate in the program with all ability levels from beginners to experts.  Skiers and riders who participate are grouped according to ability and match with an instructor who stays with them for the day.  Lift tickets are a separate cost, and the lesson rates vary depending upon how many lessons you choose.  The program is still running through April 4, 2012, and you can call 866.385.0144 to get all of the details.

Legendary Ladies is a part of the Arapahoe Basin Snowsports School.  It runs in 3 week sessions, and the next session is scheduled for March 7th, 14th, and 21st.  Groups of three to six women are grouped by ability and then paired with an instructor between 10am and 1pm.  Generally, intermediate to advanced skiers participate in the program, but anyone who wants to learn more can call 888.272.7246 for information!

This independently organized program takes place on Thursdays and Fridays through early March at Breckenridge.  Each group is created based on ability, and a “Mama Babe” is assigned at a group leader in charge of meeting times and locations.  Breckenridge Ski and Ride School instructors do participate in the program.  Regulars need to commit to five of eight sessions, and there is an administration fee.   Participation requires both a season pass and lesson pass.

All of our SummitCove properties are located within a short driving distance of each of these great Summit County ski resorts, and we are happy to provide lodging for overnight stays as you sharpen your skiing and riding skills.  If you are planning a girls mountain getaway, contact a SummitCove Vacation planner today to find out more about reserving Keystone lodging!

Keystone skiers and snowboarders ages 50 and over may want to join in on this complimentary guided snowsports program that takes place weekly on Thursdays through March 29th.  This is an opportunity to explore vast, varied terrain with fellow senior guides and other visiting and local skiers.   The best part is that you can choose from a variety of guided group options and you can participate with people who have the same interests and ability levels.

The 50+ Ski With Us program is scheduled every Thursday.  Meet inside the Summit House at the top of Dercum Mountain, and be ready at 9 am to organize into groups.  You can take the 8:30 gondola our of River Run or the 8:30 Peru Lift  to get to the Summit House.  Lunch time is scheduled at 11:15.

Guided Group Options include:
Alpine – Seven ability levels from green/easy blues to expert all-mountain off piste.
Snowboard - Advanced level
Telemark - Advanced level
CAT Shuttle - As conditions allow; for expert skiers & boarders; $5.00 per ride.
Snowbike - By reservation only. Must be certified to join a guided group; lessons (it’s easy!) available.         For information contact Linda Ginsberg: 970-668-9913
NASTAR - All levels. Popular in January and February before Senior Winter Games
FreshTracks – Available on powder days for a limited number of expert skiers and boarders.

If you are planning on visiting Keystone to take advantage of  the 50+ Ski With Us program, contact a SummitCove Vacation Planner to reserve your Keystone lodging!

Save big at Keystone Resort this weekend on our last minute lodging deals!  With our Friday and Saturday Deals in our 1 and 2 bedroom properties, and the Deal of the Day at 40% off for all remaining January dates at Buffalo Lodge #8352, you have plenty of great options to plan your Keystone vacation!

Take advantage of the new snow, and the incoming storms!  Conditions are looking better and better with 6 new inches of snow in the last week and snow in the forecast for the next 5 days.

18 of 20 lifts are now open, and skiers and snowboarders will have their pick of 69 open runs! With fresh snow and tons of activities to choose from, now is the perfect time to plan your winter getaway!

Contact a SummitCove Vacation Planner today to schedule your Keystone Resort vacation and to find your ski lodging!

Betty Fest at Keystone Resort January 14-15, 2012

Betty Fest is a two-day ski improvement workshop taught by Keystone’s top female PSIA Certified instructors. It includes on mountain coaching, video analysis and lunch. Groups are small and supportive, and instruction addresses the unique needs of women skiers. Come and enjoy a weekend of skill and confidence building in a relaxed, non-intimidating environment!  The first Betty Fest weekend takes place from January 14-15th.

INTRO TO BETTY:
1 day workshop on Saturdays of Betty Fest for NOVICE skiers who need help getting off the Bunny Hill or down a green run without fear.
Price: $150

New Student Price: Covers both days, but does not include lift tickets
Price: $245

Alumni and College Students Price: Covers both days, but does not include lift tickets
Price: $225

Home Owners: Covers both days, but does not include lift tickets
Price: $225

Lift Ticket:
Special rate – $78 two-day lift ticket available to participants

***Reservations Required

Please call 970-496-4170 for more details.

From January 14, 2012 – January 20, 2012, Keystone Resort will mark its National Ski Safety Week with several different activities that you’ll want to check out with your family and friends!

Photo With an Avi Dog Day:  Tuesday, January 17th from 11am to 3 pm at the Summit Area of Dercum Mountain.
Epic Mix will be on site to take family photos with Avalanche rescue dogs Annie and Zoey.  Every child participating will receive trading cards highlighting  Keystone’s 4 active Search and Rescue dogs and 1 retired pooch that paved the way.

Think First Head Injury Prevention Demo:  Sat-Sun Jan. 14th-15th from 11am to 3pm at the Summit Area of Dercum Mtn.
“Think First St. Anthonys Mountain Clinics” and Ski Patrol/ Mountain Safety will be sponsoring an activity booth with music, games, giveaways, and videos all focusing on head injury prevention and proper helmet use.   Trained and certified technicians will help you fit your helmet properly while you enjoy a snack and a hot cocoa.

Keystone’s Super Safety 2012  – Scavenger Hunt : Mon-Fri January 16th-20th from 11am to 3pm at River Run and Mtn. House Base areas, Summit Of Dercum Mtn., and Schoolmarm Ski Trail.
Pick up a passport and swag bag from Guest Services Ski Check in River Run or Mountain House and begin your adventure!  Each child ages 5-12, receives a passport and map of Keystone.  Each map has 10-15  Safety Checkpoints highlighted.   Every child will then go to as many checkpoints as possible and answer a safety trivia question to receive a sticker in the passport.  Participants who manage to get at least 10 stickers from different locations can enter a drawing to win a grand prize.  No Skiing experience necessary as 10 checkpoints will be in base areas or require a simple ride up the gondola to the Summit Area of Dercum.

Behind the Scenes Ride with a Groomer at 3:15 pm at the Summit Area of Dercum Mountain Guest Services
Interested parties can sign up to take a grooming run in a snow kat.   Ride-along enthusiasts can meet a Mtn. Safety Representative at the Guest Services booth in the summit area of Dercum Mtn.  The Snow Kat Groomer will pick the guest up in the summit area and take them on a behind the scenes look into our grooming operations here at Keystone with an adventurous ride down and up Mozart trail.  Ride will last anywhere from ½ hour to an hour depending upon snow/weather conditions for the day.

Sweep a Trail with Ski Patrol at 3:30pm, exact dates have not been released.  Meet at the Summit Area of Dercum Mtn. 
Interested parties can meet a Ski Patrol representative at the Guest Services shack in the Summit Area of Dercum Mtn.   From there each guest and ski patrol will close and sweep one of our day skiing trails. Trail chosen will depend upon the skiing ability of each guest. The Ski Patroller will explain what we are looking for in terms of managing our terrain, prepping it for the next day’s use, and clearing the trail of any skiing public.

Avalanche Beacon Demo.  No details have been released yet, but this is likely to be a Kidtopia friendly event taking place in the Beacon Bowl in the Outback.

Contact a SummitCove Vacation Planner today to secure your Keystone Resort lodging when you head up for safety week!

Keystone Resort and Front Range Military bases will host Snofest from January 27-29th!  Featuring discount lift tickets for military members, world class skiing and snowboarding, a hilarious cardboard derby, sleigh rides, tubing, ice skating, beer and wine tastings, snowshoeing, fine dining and non-skier excursions, you are sure to have the time of your life!

Featured Activities:

Snowshoe Hike

An easy family-oriented hike through the Snake River Valley.  Learn about local wildlife & mining history.  Minimum of 12 people required – up to 40 people can participate. Tour starts at 10:00 a.m., 2 hours long.   Price is $15.00 per person.  Includes snowshoes and guided tour. To make reservations call 719-333-7367.

Wine Tasting
Fri, Jan. 27, 1st session 1-2pm, 2nd session 3-4pm, in the Tenderfoot Lounge in the Keystone Lodge.  Price is $15 per person (limit of 25 people, per session). To make reservations call 719-333-7367.

Beer Tasting
Sat, Jan 28, 3-4pm (1 session only), in the Mountain House Loft .  Includes snack tray, cheese board, and beer selections.  Price is $10 per person (limit of 50 people).  To make reservations call 719-333-7367.

SummitCove has 290 unique properties in Keystone to choose from, so you are able to pick exactly what you are looking for based on the size of your group, location, proximity to the slopes, price range, and amenities.  Most of our properties include great features such as fireplaces, hot tubs, full kitchens, spacious living rooms, flat screen televisions, and ski lockers to store your gear!  Check out our available properties here! When you stay with SummitCove you will also receive some great discounts from local businesses on things like ski rentals, restaurants, spas, massages, snowmobiling & more!  Check your confirmation email for special links & be sure to get your Key to Keystone coupon book at check-in!