Keystone, Colorado is the perfect place to start for beginning snowboarders, or those with a little more experience under their belts. This isn't the place to go if you're looking for expert runs, or those elusive double diamond runs, but it is the place to go if you're looking to have a laid back trip, and a little bit of a challenge.

Start with The Outback. This is one of the most challenging runs for snowboarders in Keystone, and the place where most people wipe out. This run has trails, trees, and even some open bowels to add to the excitement. You'll also find the Timberwolf, Bushwacker, Badger, and The Grizz. Each one of the trails give snowboarders something different to try, and you might find yourself trying a different trail every day.

If you are an expert, and looking for a bit of a challenge, you should definitely try the Outback. This boasts two different black diamond runs, pretty much the most advanced snowboarding runs that you'll find in Keystone. Just keep an eye on the trees, as they have a tendency to jump on you without warning. You should also make sure to hit Star Fire. You might be tempted to skip this blue run since it doesn't seem very challenging, but believe me, it is.

The main areas of Keystone where you'll find the snowboarders is also likely to be pretty crowded. The terrain at Dercum might be worth the crowds though. Here you'll find some pretty insane twists and steep hills since the crew used natural elements to build the trails. Make sure to keep one eye open for other boarders though, unless you want to end up wrapped around someone else. If you have at least a little experience, make sure to hit up Anticipation and Wolverine. Both of these runs are intense enough to scare even experts.

Of course if you're completely new to snowboarding, you can still find something in Keystone. Try sticking to Dercum Mountain, at least until you have some experience under your belt. A large number of their beginner trails are located on the mountain, which makes it easy to grab a few runs in the same day. Stick to Silverspoon and Schoolmarm until you're brave enough to tackle the steep hills on the Spring Dipper. Remember too that snowboarding lessons can be found on Dercum. Yes the odds are good that you'll find yourself side by side with a couple of 14 year olds. Better than face planting yourself in the middle of the mountain though.

Still, you can't really go wrong with Keystone. You get a few challenging runs, a nice terrain park, and the chance to do a little snowboarding at night.

Learn more about this author, Jennifer Eblin.
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