There are plenty of exciting activities awaiting those who visit Keystone in the summer. Ranging from a raft ride down the whitewater of Colorado's rivers to a pleasant stroll down a quiet trail along the mountain streams, there is something for everyone.

One of the more popular activities is mountain biking down the slopes. Gondolas take the riders to the peaks where they can then make their way down a variety of trails for all abilities. Elite coaching and training is offered at "Dirt Camp." White water rafting, canoeing, sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, sailing and swimming should keep the water fanatics occupied. Those seeking a slower pace can enjoy fly-fishing, lake and stream fishing, horseback trail riding, nature hikes, roller blading, and gondola rides. How about a hiking tour complete with a llama to carry the lunch? Kamp Keystone allows parents to spend some time alone. There are also Thursday Night Barn Dances and horse-drawn Wagon Dinner Rides.

Those looking for relief from the trials of everyday life may find the Mountain Tune-Up the perfect potion. Keystone's unique spa program mixes outdoor activities with low-fat cooking classes and relaxation techniques.

Summit County also offers some of the finest dining available in the US including two AAA Four Diamond-rated restaurants. The Aspenglow Stube in The Outpost sits atop North Peak offering views as spectacular as the cuisine and the log architecture. A ride on two gondolas escorts you to the Outpost which resides at nearly 11,500 feet.

The Keystone Ranch Restaurant is located inside an elegant ranch homestead constructed in the 1930s. Enjoy six-course gourmet dinners with a Western flair.

The Ski Tip Lodge is an intimate county inn built in the 1860's and originally a stage coach stop. Four-course American meals are featured from a menu which changes nightly.

There are also plenty of casual and family dining restaurants for those not wishing to feast on elk, venison, lamb, seafood and specialty dishes with indigenous ingredients of the Rocky Mountains.

With all these activities available in one of the most scenic locations in the country, as well as pleasant days and cool nights, it is no great surprise Keystone is a popular summer vacation choice.

Don Dowell, Editor/Publisher, Golf in the SouthWest © 1998