I know that you are barely finishing the back-to-school shopping, and it is still HOT outside, but before you know it, it will be vacation time once again!  The skis will be on the roof, the suitcases loaded, the in-laws in the back of the van and you're all heading for Keystone, Colorado!

So who's going with you? Younger kids? Teenagers? The in-laws? Grandpa and Grandma? No matter. Keystone has something for everyone. Grandma doesn't have to go snowboarding, although we would LOVE to see her there.  Young children will love Keystone. You don't have to lock them away in a creche while you get your skis on: Take them with you. The cross-country trails are ideal for kids and parents to ski together. Just be sure you don't leave them behind!Let your teenagers expend all that pent-up energy on the slopes and trails, skiing or snowboarding and take a chair for the grandparents if they want to sit and watch for a while.  Playing around in the snow is not compulsory, so if any of the group prefer to stay indoors, there are plenty of welcoming restaurants, bars and indoor areas to sit and relax.

Here's a few pointers if this is your first trip to Keystone:

Keystone is a busy place with a small population and there are likely to be more holiday makers than residents at certain times. You can expect a very warm welcome from the people of Keystone both within the resort and in the main town itself.

One of the potential problems at Keystone is the choice of activities, a recipe for a squabble among family members if ever there was one. We don't want the in-laws becoming outlaws so make sure to find out beforehand what every family member wants to do. (Yes, you can satisfy everyone!) Make plans for activities before you leave home. Using information you've received from the Keystone resort in the mail or via their website, pinpoint what each family member wants to do.

The terrain at Keystone is second to none with slopes and trails for all levels of skier and snowboarder, so even if you don't know what a Bunny Slope is, you will probably find yourself on one.

Kid's areas, spots for teenagers to do their stuff and calm, peaceful places for the older folks who are there for the spectacular views and the company.  If you have a mixed group of young and not so young, agree to split up on occasion to get the best out of the facilities. Teenagers definitely won't be planning on spending the whole vacation with parents looking over their shoulder.

A few tips to help you make the most of your trip to Keystone.

• Depending on your plans for skiing and snowboarding, make a point of booking tickets in advance through the Keystone Resort official website.  You will make some cash savings as a result. The vacation feels better already!
• Check out the dining options as soon as possible after you arrive. Take a drive through the town. Get to know the place. Doing this might save a power of groaning later when everyone is hungry and you're taking forever to find a place to eat!
• At Keystone, the days are long as they also feature night-skiing. Work out a fair schedule among the family members to ensure younger children are cared for when others want to play after dark.
•  Make it your resolve to have fun! Keystone has everything you need for a fabulous family vacation to remember. Don't spoil it by falling out with Grandpa.

Take your first vacation to Keystone and likely, it won't be your last. The fun and thrills of the Keystone Resort, Colorado, will give your whole family, even the in-laws, a fantastic vacation filled with wonderful memories.

This guide to family fun in Keystone is brought to you by John Campbell.