Heading off on a holiday to Keystone is every skier’s dream. The superlative slopes of the mighty Colorado Mountains provide endless miles of slaloming fun; and all winter activities like sleigh, snow mobile and snowboard riding are considered some of the best in North America. Summer activities are likewise superb, with hiking, mountain climbing and biking available in all the surrounding areas.

Keystone is nestled deep in the South Park valley, and flanked by some of the highest peaks in the whole continent. While adrenalin-filled activities abound, there are also plenty of alternative options if a day off the slopes is what you’re after. Book an apartment in the River Run Village and follow our guide to the best non-ski related activities in Keystone. You may just find yet another reason to book your trip!

Soar high above the skies
Hot air ballooning is often considered to be one of life’s most superlative activities; indeed no bucket list would be complete without adding at least one magical ride somewhere in the world. Gliding high above the ground, and taking in a bird’s eye view of Colorado’s imposing mountains, would have to be one of the very best things to do in Keystone.

On your ride here, you can enjoy 360 degree panoramic vistas of the South Park Valley, the vertiginous Continental Divide, the Central Rockies, the Sawatch Mountains and you may even see the highest peak in Colorado: Mt. Elbert. Out of the over 50 peaks in the country, you’ll be privy to more than half.

Oh wait…there’s more! You’ll also get to enjoy a glass of champagne to celebrate your adventurous journey, and you’ll be serenaded to the tunes of classical music while you glide. Now doesn’t that sound amazing?

Colorado Balloon Rides operates out of Dillon and can organise transport to the airfield for you. Their reputation for safety and professionalism is second to none, so you know you’ll be in good hands the entire time. This exquisite experience costs just $265 per person and must be booked in advance.

Delight all your senses at a health and beauty spa
After spending a few days playing in the snow in Keystone, it’s safe to assume you may be in need of some serious pampering. Book a day at the luxurious Serenity Spa and Salon and rejuvenate your aching muscles in the most divine way possible. The spa is located right at the entrance of the River Run Village, so you’ll have tender loving care right at your doorstep.

Serenity is the best AVEDA spa in the area, and offers a myriad of treatments for sore and over-exerted skiers and hikers, in blissfully relaxing surroundings. From orgasmic foot massages to full-body scrubs and facials, we promise you’ll come out almost comatose from this spa experience. From mini-packages to full day extravaganzas, you’ll find something on their menu of treatments to warm every cockle of your heart.

Spend a day on Keystone Lake
Keystone Lake is a brilliant all-season escape from the adrenalin filled slopes. In summer, you can rent paddle boats and canoes, and in winter you can join the locals in an ice-hockey game or a few hours of ice-skating on one of the largest ice-skating rinks in the world.

Lakeside restaurants and boutiques provide a lovely diversion, and you can also rent bikes and follow the path all the way to Lake Dillon and Breckenridge.