Colorado has been a feature on the national news as heavy early snow blanketed the state. The abundant snow has allowed Keystone Resort to open early for the season. For our readers who are unfamiliar with Keystone, this is truly a resort. Guests within the Keystone Resort have the luxury of “charging privileges” throughout the resort area.

We usually suggest Keystone for families due to the resort atmosphere, family-oriented base area and terrain. In addition, Keystone is one of the most cost-effective resorts in Colorado, an important consideration for families on a budget.

Of note, for the snowboarders in the family, A51 Terrain Park has been ranked #2 in North America by Transworld Snowboarding Magazine. Also, for the children that cannot get enough skiing and boarding in during the daylight hours, Keystone offers night skiing. Mom and Dad, enjoy the Alpenglow Stube or the Keystone Ranch while the kids are on the slopes of the tubing hill.

For those seeking the most upscale accommodations in Keystone this winter, take a look at the Prospector Home.

Fall in the Colorado High Country is one of the most beautiful seasons of the year. As locals, we know the first dusting of snow will appear on mountain peaks by Labor Day weekend. Yet, before the slopes open, attractions from the fall foliage, golf against snow-capped peaks and late-season fly-fishing are just some of the attractions available for the fall visitor to Colorado.

While all the mountain communities are inviting during the fall season, one of our favorites is Summit County, located just 90 minutes west of Denver. For those unfamiliar with Summit County, the area is home to multiple resorts including Keystone, Breckenridge and Copper Mountain as well as charming towns including Frisco, and Dillon (with its beautiful marina, boats available for hourly rental).

September and October are active months in Summit County beyond the preparation for ski season which traditionally begins in November unless abundant early snowfall is received (which is possible due to the El Nino patter for winter 2009/2010). Some of our favorite events include:

September 2: 21st Annual Taste of Keystone: Bring a hearty appetite and prepare your taste buds for the best culinary event of the summer! The Taste of Keystone is a perfect way to experience Keystone’s finest cuisine, while supporting Summit County’s Mountain Mentors, all in one day! Here’s an opportunity to sample a wide variety of cuisine from Keystone’s best restaurants including: Alpenglow Stube, Ski Tip Lodge, Keystone Ranch, and The Bighorn Steakhouse. Top it all off with the finest sweet treats from acclaimed pastry chef Ned Archibald.

September 14-19: 24th Annual Breckenridge Festival of Film, this world -renowned festival features premier films, documentaries, independents, children’s features, a screenwriter’s competition and international celebrities.

September 15: Dillon Marina Lobsterfest: We may be a land-locked state, however, we still know our Lobster.

September 16: Frisco Oktoberfest: The celebration takes place on Main Street, with various venders tempting you with food and drink. There will be lots of music and dancing – of course German style! Come and celebrate German heritage with Oompah music and beer and sausage.

September 22-24: Annual Ski Swap: An event anticipated by locals and visitor alike. Be sure to check out the many bargains and prepare for the 2009/10 winter season. The Rossignol XXX Bandit’s were the bargain of the season in 2008.

September 15 & 22: The Dillon Farmers Market, fresh produce and home-baked goodies.