We were treated to many days this fall where the seasons blended and winter gave us a tastes of what’s to come. But finally the wait is over — skiers, shredders, snow people, people who can’t stand hot weather, pack your bags — because Keystone is open and ready to rip! This season is young and there’s plenty of time to get after it. Let’s dive into the details and what to expect.
Early Season Days = The Chef’s Kiss
Keystone officially kicked off the 2025-26 winter season with a bold move. Since 2019 Keystone Resort has been trying to pull off a win in the race to open, always being beaten by the higher elevation Arapahoe Basin. But this year was different. Keystone opened on October 25, 2025 at 3:00pm. Finally edging out Arapahoe Basin by about 18 hours and became the first ski resort in North America to open for the season. On opening day, ropes dropped on over two miles of smiles and freshly groomed snow. Complete with night-ski lights, a live DJ, cheap but still expensive hot dog deals, the evening rivaled the most epic pow days in fun & excitement.
What’s Open Right Now 11/4/2025
- Top to bottom green skiing with Ina’s Way connecting you all the way to the bottom.
- Mountain top learning area for those ready to learn.
- Summit Express, River Run Gondola & Montezuma Chair all open!
- More terrain coming soon!
What’s Ahead for 25/26 — The Best Is Yet to Come
We’re just at the beginning. With the early terrain open, this is your chance to get in before the peak crowds, warm up for the season, and maybe catch some more lifts and runs opening if you’re lucky. Whether you’re a family looking for fun, a powder-hound, or the next ski speed world record holder, the season ahead is wide open.
Local Tip: Gear Up with the Right Rental Shop
Before you hit the slopes, make sure your gear is dialed. For that, I highly recommend the locally-owned rental shop Norski Sports Keystone, located slopeside in River Run Village at Keystone.
Why choose Norski Sports Keystone?
- Locally owned and operated since 2010 — not just a big chain.
- Their rates are very competitive, with substantial discounts when you reserve online. Up to ~35% off all packages when you reserve online 48 hours in advanced, with no payment until pick up!
- Conveniently located near the Gondola and Summit Express Chairlift, all River Run lodging, ski school and more.
- Reviews mention friendly, knowledgeable staff and top-notch service.
If you’re heading to Keystone soon, I’d suggest booking your rental gear ahead through Norski’s website — get the discount, guarantee your gear, and make the morning smoother, by skipping the rental shop entirely since you picked up the day before with Norski’s day before pick up where you don’t have to wait til’ a small window with everyone else at 4pm. Pick up ANYTIME between 1pm and 7:30pm the day before your first day of skiing at no extra charge.
Lock in your gear, mark your dates, rally your crew — and get ready for one of the most exciting ski seasons in years. See you on the slopes! 🎿🏔️