If you are curious about the giant construction project surrounding Keystone’s River Run gondola, it’s a village-sized resort that will change the look of the main base area. Kindred Resort, set to open in the spring of 2025, is touted as “the most luxurious new slopeside property in the Colorado Rockies.” Part of Vail Resorts’ RockResorts brand, the property consists of 107 high-end hotel rooms, 95 one-to-four-bedroom residences, a private club, spa, ski valet, the new headquarters for Keystone’s Ski & Snowboard School, upscale retail shops and three restaurants, all within steps of River Run Gondola. “Kindred is going to be a game-changer,” says Ken Riley, the first mayor of Keystone, which became an incorporated town last February. “It does feel like this is a missing link to what a top family-friendly resort can offer.” While Keystone has long since boasted fine dining haunts like the Ski Tip Lodge and (located on one of its two world-class golf courses) Keystone Ranch, as well as a massive conference center and upscale spa at Keystone Lodge, it has always positioned itself as a more affordable family destination than surrounding ski resorts. Despite the upscale developments starting with Kindred, Keystone still offers free parking within walking distance of lifts at River Run and Mountain House, family amenities, and lodging packages, including free lift tickets for kids. Incorporating the town was crucial to Keystone’s journey toward improved infrastructure and offerings.