We would love to make your vacation a true escape. Stay out of the kitchen and let the gourmet chefs at Peak Provisions create sumptuous meals, and they’re on us!

Key To The Rockies wants to help you accomplish your goal of rest and relaxation during your Keystone vacation by taking the hassle out of one night’s dinner, one afternoon’s lunch, one morning’s breakfast or even just a grocery shopping trip! Book one of the following featured properties for 4 nights or more and receive a gift certificate for up to $300 to Peak Provisions meal catering company – courtesy of KTTR!

Peak Provisions offers dozens of complete, oven ready, easy to prepare meals from Chicken Cordon Bleu to Sirloin or Chicken Fajitas to Homemade Lasagna and so much more! Or, if you’d rather, use your gift certificate towards groceries (including liquor, wine and beer!). Peak Provisions will do the shopping for you and deliver the groceries (or meal) to your home away from home so that it’s ready and waiting for you when you arrive!

With Peak Provisions, the options are endless! From appetizers and snacks including Egg Rolls and Hummus to complete breakfasts such as Belgian Waffles to sack lunches to take on the mountain, Peak Provisions has it all! (Here’s one of their sumptuous descriptions: Choose between a 10oz Certified Angus Beef New York’s or a 10oz Certified Angus Beef Rib eye steak. The steak is upper 2/3rds choice, prime USDA with modest to moderate marbling. Aged 21 days, every bite is flavorful, tender and juicy. Season to taste with Summit Steak seasoning if desired and serve with a sour cream and chive twice baked potato, spinach salad, mushroom with hot bacon dressing and fresh bread with butter. Serves one.) One word. YUM.

Click Below To View Our Eligible Properties. When booking online, use the PROMO CODE: PEAKPROVISIONS or call us at 800-248-1942 to book your Peak Provisions package with KTTR today!*

*Upon booking, you will be emailed a Promo Code to use on Peak Provisions website, www.PeakProvisions.com, for the allocated amount specified below. Not valid with any other offers or existing reservations. Other conditions may apply.

Receive a $200 or $300 Gift Certificate to Peak Provisions from KTTR when you book : (Sorry, only the properties listed below qualify for this spectacular promotion!) This offer good till: 11/15/2012

Click on the Properties below to see the amazing accommodations!

Lone Eagle – $200 Meal Deal

Lazy K – $300 Meal Deal

Retreat – $300 Meal Deal

Ruby Ranch – $300 Meal Deal

The snow is great, you’re having fun and you look at your watch and see that you only have a little more time on the slopes. We know how you feel. So we’ve instituted a new late check-out program for your convenience. If you know you want to check-out late, please be sure to mention it to our reservationist in advance and we’ll look for accommodations that have no back-to-back reservations.  If you have spent any time in Summit or Eagle Counties, you know that I-70 turns into a parking lot at around 3:00pm and stays blocked for a few hours. So why not choose Option Number 1. You can check out at 6PM and get on the road just as traffic is beginning to lighten. Or, best of all, you can choose Option Number 2 and stay an additional night and check out Monday morning at 8:00AM!

Option Number 1* – Check-out at 6PM.

Studio/1 bedroom = Add $50

2 bedroom/3 bedroom = Add $75

4 bedrooms and larger = Add $125

Option Number 2* Check-out at 8:00AM on Monday!

Late Late Check out Fees:

50% off RACK rates will be added to your total billing.

(*) You must check with our reservationist to see if your unit is available at least 4 hours in advance! Some restrictions may apply.

So go ahead and play and extend your stay!

This is information sent to our company from the G0I70.com folks.

Do your guests/homeowners frequently ask how they can avoid traffic on I70? 

Your concierge or property manager can quickly find that answer at GoI70.com

1)         http://goi70.com/wp/traffic-patterns/  gives the typical winter/summer traffic patterns. (Also found at GoI70.com, Blog, Typical Traffic Patterns)

2)         http://goi70.com/wp/blog  posts a specific weekend forecast every Friday, based on historical traffic data from that weekend in previous years. (Also found at GoI70.com, Blog)

Typical Traffic Patterns

Typical Winter Traffic Pattern:
Fortunately, I70 is congestion free the majority of the time, and traffic is quite predictable.  A detailed weekend/holiday forecast is posted on the GoI70 blog each week, but below is the typical weekend traffic pattern.

Friday Westbound – Light to moderate traffic from about 4:00-8:00 p.m. 

Saturday and Sunday Westbound – Moderate traffic from about 6:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. with the peak around 7:30-8:00 a.m.  Sunday morning WB traffic is typically lighter than Saturday morning.

Saturday Eastbound – Traffic builds around 2:30 p.m., peaks around 4:00-5:00 and drops dramatically after 6:00 p.m.  Expect heavy congestion.  “Leave After 6:00, Home by 8:00.”

Sunday Eastbound – I70 starts to fill up earlier than it does on Saturday at 1:30 or 2:00 p.m., traffic peaks around 4:00-5:00 and drops off soon after 6:30 pm.  Expect very heavy traffic. 

Other factors:
Loveland Pass Closure – When Loveland Pass is closed, expect 20 minute stops at the Johnson/Eisenhower Tunnels to let Hazardous Material Trucks through.

Metering – Traffic metering goes into effect during very high volume times.  It involves 20 minutes stops at the Johnson/Eisenhower Tunnels.

Bad weather, accidents or holiday weekends can escalate the level and duration of congestion dramatically.    

Check GoI70.com/mobile, plan accordingly and avoid the jam! Or better yet, call us and let’s see if we can make your life much easier!

I teach skiing here in Summit County for Vail Resorts and the people at Key To The Rockies asked me to talk about the conditions. Contrary to popular opinion, we are back in business, big time. I teach all levels, and let me tell you that my level 9 (experts) are having the time of their lives and the brand new, never ever skiers are having a blast too. The snow is amazing. We got a dump of 10” the other day and we were getting thigh high powder shots all morning long.

I took my level 7/8 class into the trees and we were hooping and hollering because the snow was so amazing. Dress warmly and bring the baclava because the wind can howl, but it’s totally worth the 7 minutes on the lift. Don’t forget the hand warmers, because after all, it is still January. But the ski slopes are open and operating, finally.

Key To The Rockies can help you rent state-of-the-art equipment. I highly recommend trying the new wider skis. Go for 105cm under foot. They are super easy to turn and provide the most timid skiers a whole new experience. A word about socks – please make sure to buy some wool socks without ribs. All that should be between you and your boots is the knee-high sock. I happen to like Thorlo, but there are many great manufacturers. Also, please make sure that your poles are long enough. Ask a store tech to help you. If you are out skiing terrain, you need a long enough pole so you are not bending at the waist to reach the mountain. If you are a woman, remember that most boots are designed for men. Ask for a ladies boot. They still provide the performance, but they are built for our calves. Men’s calves sit higher on their legs than women’s and consequently, if we get a man’s boot the cuff seems to hit our legs incorrectly.

When making your plans to visit the county, give my friends at Key To The Rockies a call and they’ll give you the 411 about the snow conditions and the best time to arrive. They’ll help arrange everything, from dog sledding to romantic dinners. If you need lessons, lift tickets or babysitting, KTTR can help. Just call 800-248-1942

 See you on the slope and be safe!

Betty Fest continues on Feb. 26-27 at Keystone ski resort. A KAT skiing option may be added. Go to keystoneresort.com to book your Betty Fest experience and be sure to reserve your lodging with Key To The Rockies 800-248-1942.

Last year, Pink feathers decorated the slopes of Keystone ski resort Jan. 22 – 23, as over 50 women gathered for Betty Fest.  The event offers a lady of any ability level the unique opportunity to ski or snowboard in a small group with other women.  Groups are paired with highly qualified instructors. 

“Women teaching women is a pretty powerful thing” Instructor Gail Imel said.

Betties enjoyed two days of specialized instruction and pampering on the mountain.  The instruction catered specifically to improving balance, refining form and boosting confidence. 

Day one began with a few runs and a videotaping of each participant.  Then, the ladies warmed up at the Summit House while sipping hot cocoa and watching their videos.  The instructor found areas for focus and consulted with each lady on strengths and needs.  The afternoon was spent practicing new skills. 

On day two the Betties gathered again to continue refining their flair on the slopes.  That afternoon, participants were videotaped once again.  Ladies were able to see their videos back to back, receive feedback from their instructors and group members, and witness the learning strides made in just two days.

Bettyfest is far from all work and no play.  The program involves a high level of Betty pampering.  Ladies don feather boas on the slope and relish in the attention.  Saturday lunch is provided at the prestigious five star Alpenglow Stube in Keystone’s Outback. 

After venturing in from the cold, checking their coats and gear at the door, and relaxing into the restaurant’s slippers, the Betties enjoy a stand out three-course lunch.  Round one was a mouth-watering artichoke, roasted corn, and blue crab soup.  Next was the main course of grilled salmon with pesto, risotto, and asparagus.  Finally, the meal concluded with, naturally, Betty cakes and chocolate brownies each topped with pink cotton candy frosting. 

Saturday also brought an après ski party at Luigi’s in Keystone’s River Run.  Betties, still full from lunch, gathered to sip, snack, and socialize about their adventures as well as enjoy giveaways from the events sponsors including Powerbar.

As an intermediate skier, I was thrilled to participate in this unique opportunity.  My group consisted of wonderful women excited to improve their “beginner bumps” abilities and break from our day-to-day lives.  There was a cathartic support among the women and we oozed encouragement for one another. 

We all enjoyed the feeling of success and accomplishment by the end of our weekend.  Bettyfest rallied me to conquer the fear of the “bump” and several other insecurities in my skiing.  The return rate for Betties is quite high according to Judy Eskin, Betty program coordinator at Keystone, and I can definitely see why.  The ladies in my group all vow to return as do I. 

This is a can’t-miss opportunity for any woman of any ability to enjoy a weekend of attention and fun. 

– Jeannette Boyd

Okay, we admit it. The snow has been sparse here in Summit County, Colorado, but we need to give credit to our friends at Vail Resorts and A-Basin. If I didn’t tell you that we hadn’t had snowfall, you would be hard pressed to know it, based upon the grooming and man made conditions here. Keystone, Breckenridge, Vail and Beaver Creek are running at nearly full capacity in spite of our early season plight because of our incredible staffs of snowmaking teams here in Colorado.

But guess what?

We got 7” two days ago and it’s snowing right now, as I type. It’s turning into the winter wonderland we all know and love. No more excuses! You need to book now, because winter has officially arrived. Call Key To The Rockies here in Keystone, Colorado and book your ski adventure and we have availability this weekend too. Time for some freshies!

It's Snowing Right Now!

Take a look at these on-mountain cameras!

Keystone Mountain

Arapahoe Basin

Breckenridge

Vail

When I’m not writing blogs and working for Key To The Rockies, I teach skiing. The 7” made a huge difference and I actually had snow collecting around my ankles as I cruised the bumps the other day. The groomers actually work 24/7 to keep the slopes perfect for our guests and it’s looking better and better by hour.

So call today and book your ski trip! 800-248-1942

50% Off

To celebrate this holiday season, Key To The Rockies Lodging is offering you 50% off of all two or more night stays, valid now through January 2, 2012!  Book now, while supplies last!

Why not book a last minute trip over the holidays?  The kids are out of school, there is no better time than the present!  Email or call us today!

The snow, although not provided by nature, is still amazingly good. We have skied here at A-Basin, Keystone and Breckenridge and the conditions are great, primarily because our temperatures remain low at night. So take a look at your calendar and give us a call now. At 50% off, it’s not going to get much better!

Relaxing in the beauty of Keystone, Colorado

Your husband just said, “Hey, I booked a ski trip”! Panic is setting in. The last time you went skiing, it was cold, icy, and exhausting and did you mention cold? But you want to make the family happy and get some exercise. Well guess what? There are many options up here in the high country and it doesn’t mean that you have to slap those huge sticks to the bottom of your feet.

Why don’t you rent some snowshoes or cross-country skis instead? We actually cut routes throughout the valley that provide shelter from the wind and are the most incredible views possible. It’s downright magical traveling through the silence of the mountains under your own power. The branches are covered with snow and then suddenly you’ll catch a glimpse of the crystalline limbs that have become encapsulated overnight. A sparkle here and there will remind you of diamonds. You may see a deer nuzzling in the powder or a white rabbit scamper into the safety of a tree well.

Here’s how I make a choice on which way to travel on a given day?

If I’m headed out to play in the snow, I always take both snowshoes and cross-country skis. The urge to go somewhere different might arise, conditions might be different than anticipated, and it just adds a level of freedom of choice. You can determine the speed that you travel. The point is that you are outside, convening with nature, getting fresh air and feeling great about yourself instead of moping around the condo till the family returns

On either excursion, be sure to let people know where you are going and stick to that plan. Also, dress in layers. It’s easy to strip off clothing. Be sure to take water and something to eat for the extra calories you will need. Plan ahead and use your head to make your plan. Take hand warmers and place toe warmers in your shoes too. Better to be safe than sorry. Take your camera, wear a hat, face protection and sunscreen too!

SnowShoes

Sometimes the choice of snowshoes comes down to how you feel on a given day. More often the choice is made based on terrain and skill level. If the route is unknown, but you anticipate difficult and uneven terrain, then snowshoes are the better choice because they require less skill. Snowshoes are slower than skis, so if the route is long and hilly, you might need skis to make distance.

Another consideration is the type of snow you’ll be traveling over. If the snow has frozen over with a crust, snowshoes will be more comfortable than skis. If there is a lot of ice, snowshoes are a much better choice. In mushy, slushy snow, skis can be difficult to move so snowshoes might be more pleasant.

Cross-country skis

If you want to travel a longer distance in a day, cross-country skis are the right choice. Aerobically speaking, cross-country skiing is the best exercise on the mountain. Remember to pace yourself. If you don’t live at altitude, you need a few days of adjustment before you just race outside. Even if you are an aerobics instructor, you will definitely feel the burn of 9,600 feet above sea level. When the snow is soft, powdery and inviting, it’s time to clip on your skis. If you know the route and it has some fun hills, then the choice is obvious. We have entire groomed trail systems here. Just ask your concierge at Key To The Rockies to provide you with a various maps available.

Always look for other skiers and snowshoers at the trailhead to see if they have any knowledge that can help you. I like to find people returning from their trip and ask about the route and conditions. I’ve even done this at the end of a day when more people are returning, just to plan for the next day’s route. Whatever choice you make, be sure it matches your skills and the conditions on that given day. Having the right equipment will make your trip safer and more fun.

 Key To The Rockies Launches Travel Desk for Online Travel Services

Just In time for opening day at Keystone Ski Resort! November 4, 2011

–Customers Can Now Book Airline Tickets, Rental Cars, Ground Transportation with Vacation Rentals–

Keystone, Colorado– November 4, 2011  – Key To The Rockies, a provider of vacation rental lodging today announced they have launched a new Travel Desk Platform to provide full travel planning services to their guests.  Using the Travel Desk, customers can supplement and package their vacation homes with airline tickets, rental cars, ground transportation, lift tickets, rental gear and other destination activities. 

Customers can book these travel services online on the Key To The Rockies website or over the phone where they are assisted by destination experts typically living in the destination. 

“Our guests typically travel from out of state, and have a number of travel needs when they book their vacation with us” said Mike Magliocchetti, President of Key To The Rockies, a property management company in Keystone, Colorado, “with this new Travel Desk platform, we can now offer our guests complete one stop shopping and take care of all of their travel needs at once.” 

Key To The Rockies is launching this new service offering using the VacationRoost Travel Desk booking platform just in time for today’s opening of Keystone Ski Resort.  All booking and fulfillment of travel products and services are provided by VacationRoost under the partner’s brand using the Travel Desk platform.  VacationRoost CEO Julian Castelli commented:  “We have built the technology to package vacation rental properties with other travel services and are excited to offer this capability to our travel partners, allowing them to provide their customers with extra services.” 

Key To The Rockies is a full service vacation lodging company located in Keystone, Colorado.

About VacationRoost

Based in Salt Lake City, Utah, VacationRoost’s team of experienced travel professionals is committed to making booking a vacation rental as easy as booking a hotel room online. VacationRoost.com offers consumers the ability to book over 150,000 professionally managed vacation rentals online and to package them with air, car, and destination travel services.  VacationRoost’s Partner Services division provides partners with the ability to utilize the VacationRoost transaction platform to book vacation rentals and other travel products on their own sites and to offer their customers complete central reservation travel planning services.  For more information, visit www.vacationroost.com.

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For further information, please contact:

Key To The Rockies: 800-248-1942

Ask for Linda Burchett, Patrice Novak or Leslie Stafford.

VacationRoost:

Maile Keone

801.559.3291

press@vacationroost.com