There’s nothing like being spun off the side of a steep, snow-covered mountain—twirling around at what seems like warp speed on a giant pink inner tube—to bring out the kid in anyone. Tubing wasn’t my first activity choice on a recent trip to Keystone, Colo., but it certainly topped the list of surprisingly fun—and giddy—teambuilding experiences at this Rockies retreat.
Skiing, of course, was another highlight, especially considering the powdery conditions I was lucky enough to encounter, not to mention a three-hour private lesson from Bernhard Schrag, one of the professional instructors at Keystone. We worked on improving my technique and by the end of the session, Bernhard had me confident in conquering the blue-diamond runs, chasing him in a game of “catch me if you can.” Private group lessons are available, as well as unique experiences such as buyouts of the Lindsey Vonn race course. Here, participants can “compete” against the famous skier’s time and each other, with results posted on the leaderboard at the end of the run to make you feel like a true Olympian—if just for a moment.
Those results are also tracked on EpicMix, a cool online and mobile app that captures your ski and snowboard experience at all Vail Resorts’ properties, including Keystone. EpicMix is a great group feature as well, since it enables attendees to share stories and achievements via mobile, and even set up group leaderboards for those who wish to compete against each other. EpicMix photographers are on hand at points throughout the mountain to take shots of skiers and boarders, which can be downloaded via the app.
Aside from the outdoor adventures at Keystone, a four-season mountain playground, another selling point is distinctive dining venues. On one evening of our trip, we took a gondola ride to the top of North Peak, bundled up in blankets as we ascended the mountain. At the top, 11,444 feet to be exact, we walked over to Der Fondue Chessel and were immediately immersed in the Swiss charm of this Old World venue, an ideal spot for a group event. High ceilings, giant wood beams and a fireplace accentuate the atmosphere, as does Bavarian music, complete with an accordion player. The main attraction, though, is the endless array of fondue. We decided on Gruyere and Emmentaler cheese to start, followed by a delicious selection of veggies, meat such as elk and bison, and seafood.
At Keystone Lodge & Spa, where our group stayed, Bighorn Bistro is another great dining choice with excellent, seasonally inspired local cuisine.
The 152-room lodge, just one of many accommodations options at Keystone, boasts gorgeous views of the mountain and also features 10,000 square feet of meeting space. At the lodge’s spa, I kicked back in front of the fireplace of the relaxation room before enjoying a fantastic massage—a fitting way to wind down after the exhilarating spins at Adventure Point Tubing.
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Keystone Resort
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