Keystone Ski Area History

Although the Ute and Arapahoe Native American tribes inhabited this pristine area before any others, word started to spread east in 1859 that the area had great sources of gold and copper. For many years following the gold rush, the towns of Summit County saw many quick cycles of boom and bust. But it wasn't until the train arrived in 1882 that the area really began to grow. From ox-drawn wagons and stage coaches to box cars and locomotives, the arrival of the train really changed the way of life.

Now history takes a hundred year jump because it was not until November 21, 1970 that the ski area at Keystone opened under the supervision of Max and Edna Dercum. Their mission when opening the ski area was to keep it a family oriented destination and a great place to learn. Keystone Mountain was renamed "Dercum Mountain" in 2003 as a celebration of founders day. Bill and Jane Bergman also helped develop Keystone. Bill was actually the first president of the corporation. "Little Bowl" was also recently renamed, as "Bergman Bowl."

Today Keystone Ski Resort stands above seven miles of the Snake River. Its base area is home to fantastic dining opportunities, a large ice skating and hockey rink, and two golf courses. Its three mountains, Dercum Mountain, the North Peak, and the Outback, lure skiers and snowboarders of all abilities to enjoy a wide variety of terrain and adventure.