Colorado Airports with Ski Resort Access
Colorado’s world-renowned ski resorts attract millions of visitors each year, offering pristine slopes, breathtaking mountain vistas, and unforgettable winter experiences. Choosing the right airport can significantly impact the overall travel experience for those planning a ski vacation in the Centennial State. While Denver International Airport (DEN) is the most popular and well-known option, savvy travelers should know that several regional airports across Colorado provide more convenient access to specific ski destinations. These smaller airports can often save precious time and eliminate the need for extended transfers, allowing visitors to hit the slopes sooner and maximize their vacation time.
To help winter sports enthusiasts make informed decisions about their travel plans, we have compiled a comprehensive list of Colorado airports that offer convenient access to the state’s premier ski resorts. By considering these alternative options, travelers can tailor their journey to their specific ski resort, potentially avoiding long drives and enjoying a more seamless transition from runway to chairlift.
| Airport Name | Overview | Nearby Ski Resorts | Interesting Facts/Info | Distance to Ski Resorts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denver International Airport (DEN) | The largest airport in Colorado and the primary international airport serving the state. Hub for United, Frontier, and Southwest Airlines. | Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Vail, Winter Park, Eldora Mountain Resort | One of the largest airports in the US, dedicated ski bag luggage carousel | Vail (126 miles), Winter Park (110 miles), Eldora (21 miles) |
| Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) | A popular airport for accessing ski resorts in the Vail Valley area. Offers seasonal flights from major US cities. | Beaver Creek, Vail | Originally an emergency landing strip, known for challenging weather conditions | Vail (35 miles), Beaver Creek (28 miles) |
| Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) | The closest airport to Aspen’s four ski resorts. Known for its challenging approach due to high elevation and surrounding mountains. | Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, Snowmass | Known for one of the most challenging approaches for pilots due to high elevation | Aspen (3 miles), Snowmass (6 miles) |
| Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN) | The primary airport serving Steamboat Springs and the surrounding area. Offers seasonal flights from major US cities. | Steamboat | The only airport in northwest Colorado with scheduled passenger flights | Steamboat (22 miles) |
| Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) | Serves as a gateway to the Telluride Ski Resort and the surrounding San Juan Mountains. Offers year-round flights from Denver and seasonal flights from other cities. | Telluride | Serves as a gateway to Telluride Ski Resort | Telluride (65 miles) |
| Telluride Regional Airport (TEX) | The highest-elevation commercial airport in the US, located just minutes from Telluride Ski Resort. Offers limited seasonal flights. | Telluride | Highest-elevation commercial airport in the US at 9,070 feet, challenging for winter flights | Telluride (6 miles) |
| Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport (GUC) | Serves the Crested Butte Ski Resort and the Gunnison Valley. Offers year-round flights from Denver and seasonal flights from other cities. | Crested Butte | Serves as a gateway to Crested Butte Ski Resort | Crested Butte (31 miles) |
| Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO) | Serves the Four Corners region, including the Purgatory Ski Resort. Offers year-round flights from Denver, Phoenix, and Dallas. | Purgatory | Serves as a gateway to Purgatory Ski Resort | Purgatory (46 miles) |
| San Luis Valley Regional Airport (ALS) | A small regional airport serving the San Luis Valley and the Wolf Creek Ski Area. Offers limited flights to and from Denver. | Wolf Creek Ski Area | Flights between Denver and Alamosa served by Key Lime Air DBA Denver Air Connection | Wolf Creek Ski Area (80 miles) |
| Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) | The largest airport in western Colorado, serving the Grand Junction area and the nearby Powderhorn Mountain Resort. | Powderhorn Mountain Resort | Largest airport in western Colorado and third largest in the state | Powderhorn Mountain Resort (45 miles) |
Denver International Airport (DEN)
Denver International Airport (DEN) is one of the world’s busiest airports, ranking as the 6th busiest globally and 3rd busiest in the United States. Located 25 miles northeast of Downtown Denver, this massive facility serves as a major hub for United Airlines and is the largest operating base for both Frontier Airlines and Southwest Airlines. The airport’s distinctive peaked roof, designed to evoke the snow-capped Rocky Mountains, has become an iconic symbol of Denver’s gateway to the world.
| Fact | Data |
|---|---|
| IATA/ICAO Codes | DEN/KDEN |
| Airlines Served | 25 |
| Annual Passengers (2023) | 77.8 million |
| Number of Terminals | 1 (Jeppesen Terminal) |
| Number of Concourses | 3 (A, B, C) |
| Total Gates | 179 |
| Runways | 6 |
| Terminal Size | 1.5 million square feet |
DEN provides access to several world-class ski resorts in Colorado, making it a popular choice for winter sports enthusiasts. While not the closest airport to most ski areas, its extensive flight options and rental car services make it a convenient starting point for many ski vacations. The airport is well-connected to nearby ski destinations through various ground transportation options, including shuttle services, car rentals, and public transportation.
Nearby ski resorts accessible from DEN:
- Winter Park Resort (110 miles, approximately 2 hours drive)
- Breckenridge Ski Resort (104 miles, approximately 2 hours drive)
- Vail Ski Resort (126 miles, approximately 2.5 hours drive)
- Beaver Creek Resort (134 miles, approximately 2.5 hours drive)
- Eldora Mountain Resort (21 miles from Boulder, approximately 1 hour drive from DEN)
For travelers heading to ski resorts, the most common route from DEN is west on I-70, which provides access to many of Colorado’s premier ski destinations. During peak ski season, traffic on I-70 can be heavy, especially on weekends, so it’s advisable to plan accordingly. The airport offers numerous car rental options, and several shuttle services provide direct transportation to various ski resorts. For those preferring public transportation, the RTD A Line train connects the airport to Denver Union Station, from which additional ski area connections are available.
Eagle County Regional Airport
Eagle County Regional Airport, often referred to as Vail/Eagle Airport, serves as a gateway to some of Colorado’s most popular ski resorts. Located just 35 miles west of Vail and 28 miles from Beaver Creek, this airport offers convenient access to world-class skiing and snowboarding. Despite its relatively small size, Eagle County Regional Airport is crucial in bringing winter sports enthusiasts to Colorado’s ski country.
| Fact | Data |
|---|---|
| IATA/ICAO Codes | EGE/KEGE |
| Airlines Served | 6 (seasonal) |
| Annual Passengers (2022) | 310,737 |
| Number of Gates | 7 |
| Runway | 1 (9,000 feet long) |
| Elevation | 6,548 feet above sea level |
The airport’s location in the Rocky Mountains makes it particularly attractive for skiers and snowboarders. During the winter season, EGE sees a significant increase in traffic, with several major airlines offering direct flights from cities across the United States. These seasonal flights typically operate from December through April, aligning with the peak ski season in the Vail Valley.
Nearby ski resorts accessible from EGE:
- Vail Ski Resort (35 miles, approximately 45 minutes drive)
- Beaver Creek Resort (28 miles, approximately 35 minutes drive)
- Breckenridge Ski Resort (77 miles, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes drive)
- Keystone Resort (83 miles, approximately 1 hour 40 minutes drive)
Ground transportation from Eagle County Regional Airport to nearby ski resorts is well-organized and efficient. Shuttle, private, and rental car services are readily available at the airport. The most common route to Vail and Beaver Creek is along I-70 East, a scenic drive offering stunning Rocky Mountains views. During peak times, the airport coordinates closely with local transportation providers to ensure smooth transitions for arriving passengers heading to the slopes.
Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE)
Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE), also known as Sardy Field, is a county-owned public-use airport located just three miles northwest of downtown Aspen, Colorado. Despite its small size and challenging location ASE plays a crucial role in bringing skiers and snowboarders directly to Aspen/Snowmass ski resorts.
| Fact | Data |
|---|---|
| IATA/ICAO Codes | ASE/KASE |
| Airlines Served | 3 (American, Delta, United) |
| Annual Aircraft Operations (2020) | 38,584 |
| Based Aircraft (2020) | 95 |
| Runway | 15/33 (8,006 ft × 100 ft, 2,440 m × 30 m) |
| Elevation | 7,820 feet (2,384 m) above sea level |
| Terminal Size | 44,000 square feet (4,100 m^2) |
ASE is known for its stunning scenic approach and strict operating limitations due to the surrounding mountainous terrain. The airport has more regular service from major carriers than any other regional ski town airport in North America, with over 170 weekly flights during the winter season. This is particularly impressive given the airport’s constraints, which require special crew qualifications and aircraft certifications to navigate the steep approach and demanding takeoff procedures.
Nearby ski resorts accessible from ASE:
- Buttermilk (1 mile, less than 5 minutes drive)
- Aspen Highlands (3 miles, 8 minutes drive)
- Aspen Mountain (4 miles, 11 minutes drive)
- Snowmass (6 miles, 13 minutes drive)
For those staying in downtown Aspen or Snowmass Village, the short drive from the airport means more time on the slopes and less time in transit. The airport offers a variety of ground transportation options, including free bus service provided by the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) to both Aspen and Snowmass Village. With its quick access to world-class skiing and stunning mountain scenery, it’s no wonder that Aspen/Pitkin County Airport is a top choice for winter sports enthusiasts visiting Colorado.
Yampa Valley Regional Airport
Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN), located in Hayden, Colorado, serves as the primary gateway to Steamboat Springs and Northwest Colorado. Situated about 25 miles west of Steamboat Springs, this regional airport plays a crucial role in bringing visitors to one of Colorado’s most famous ski destinations, particularly during the winter season when it offers an impressive array of direct flights from major cities across the United States.
| Fact | Data |
|---|---|
| IATA/ICAO Codes | HDN/KHDN |
| Airlines Served | 6 (Alaska, American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, United) |
| Annual Passengers (2021) | 150,142 |
| Number of Gates | 6 |
| Runway | 1 (10,000 ft × 150 ft) |
| Elevation | 6,606 feet above sea level |
| Terminal Size | 72,000 square feet |
The airport experiences its peak activity during ski season, from December through March, when it offers an extensive network of nonstop flights from 17 major cities. During winter, HDN transforms into a bustling hub with direct connections to destinations including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, and Seattle. Year-round service is maintained through daily flights to and from Denver International Airport operated by United and Southwest Airlines.
Nearby ski resorts accessible from HDN:
- Steamboat Ski Resort (27 miles, approximately 35 minutes drive)
- Howelsen Hill Ski Area (23 miles, approximately 30 minutes drive)
Ground transportation from HDN is well-organized but must be arranged in advance. The airport offers several options, including shuttle services, private car services, and major rental car companies. Most visitors opt for shuttle services to Steamboat Springs, which can be booked through various providers. The route to Steamboat Springs follows US-40 East, offering scenic views of the Yampa Valley. The airport’s proximity to Steamboat Springs makes it one of the more convenient options for accessing the resort, with many visitors able to hit the slopes the same day they arrive.
Montrose Regional Airport
Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) serves as a crucial gateway to Colorado’s Western Slope and is the primary airport for accessing Telluride Ski Resort. Located in Montrose, Colorado, this growing regional airport has established itself as one of the most reliable mountain airports in the state, boasting a remarkable 98% flight completion rate. The airport experiences peak activity during winter months when it offers extensive seasonal service to accommodate ski tourism.
| Fact | Data |
|---|---|
| IATA/ICAO Codes | MTJ/KMTJ |
| Airlines Served | 5 (American, Delta, Southwest, United, Breeze) |
| Annual Passengers (2018) | 266,533 |
| Number of Runways | 2 |
| Runway Lengths | 10,000 ft × 150 ft and 7,500 ft × 100 ft |
| Elevation | 5,759 feet above sea level |
| Terminal Size | Recently expanded by 10,935 sq ft |
The airport offers an impressive network of direct flights, with 11 nonstop destinations during winter season and 5 during summer. Year-round service includes daily flights to Denver International Airport (DEN) and Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), while seasonal winter service expands to include major hubs such as Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco. The terminal features modern amenities including two locations of Horsefly Brewing and a coffee shop with baked goods.
Nearby ski resorts accessible from MTJ:
- Telluride Ski Resort (65 miles, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes drive)
- Crested Butte Mountain Resort (96 miles, approximately 2 hours drive)
Ground transportation options from MTJ are comprehensive, with several shuttle services and rental car agencies available on-site. The drive to Telluride follows a scenic route primarily along US-550 and CO-62, offering stunning views of the San Juan Mountains. The airport’s reliability and accessibility make it a preferred choice over Telluride’s regional airport for many visitors, particularly during challenging weather conditions. The first 30 minutes of parking are free, and various parking options are available for both short and long-term stays.
Telluride Regional Airport
Telluride Regional Airport (TEX) is North America’s highest commercial airport, perched atop Deep Creek Mesa at an elevation of 9,078 feet. Located just six miles from downtown Telluride, this unique airport offers challenging approaches and breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains, making it both a technical marvel and a scenic gateway to one of Colorado’s premier ski destinations.
| Fact | Data |
|---|---|
| IATA/ICAO Codes | TEX/KTEX |
| Airlines Served | 1 (Denver Air Connection) |
| Annual Operations (2019) | 9,402 |
| Number of Runways | 1 |
| Runway Length | 7,111 ft × 100 ft |
| Elevation | 9,078 feet above sea level |
| Based Aircraft | 27 |
| Terminal Size | 542 acres |
The airport underwent a significant $24 million renovation in 2009, which included major improvements to the runway. The project involved lowering the west end by 30 feet and the east end by 14 feet to eliminate a notorious dip in the middle, while also adding 41 feet of length and installing an Engineered Materials Arrestor System (EMAS). These improvements have enhanced safety and operational capabilities, though the airport still maintains strict operating limitations due to its challenging location.
Nearby ski resorts accessible from TEX:
- Telluride Ski Resort (6 miles, approximately 15 minutes drive)
- Mountain Village (7 miles, approximately 20 minutes drive)
Ground transportation options from TEX include rental cars, private shuttles, and luxury car services. While the airport’s high elevation can lead to weather-related diversions (historically about 20% during winter), its proximity to Telluride makes it an attractive option for those seeking the quickest access to the slopes. Denver Air Connection operates daily year-round service to Denver and Phoenix using Fairchild-Dornier 328JET aircraft, one of the few regional jets capable of operating at such high elevations.
Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport
Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport (GUC) serves as the gateway to the Gunnison Valley and provides crucial access to one of Colorado’s most beloved ski destinations, Crested Butte Mountain Resort. Located just one mile southwest of Gunnison, this regional airport plays an essential role in bringing visitors to the area year-round, though winter remains its busiest season.
| Fact | Data |
|---|---|
| IATA/ICAO Codes | GUC/KGUC |
| Airlines Served | 2 (United, American) |
| Annual Passengers (2010) | 37,316 |
| Number of Runways | 2 |
| Main Runway Length | 9,400 ft × 150 ft |
| Elevation | 7,680 feet above sea level |
| Terminal Size | 1 building with 2 jetbridge gates |
| Number of Gates | 4 (2 jetbridge, 2 ground-level) |
The airport experiences its peak activity during ski season, with expanded service from major carriers. Year-round flights operate to Denver International Airport, while seasonal winter service includes direct flights to Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) and Houston (IAH). Though modest, the terminal features essential amenities, including car rental services and a baggage claim area with a dedicated ski/oversized baggage slide.
Nearby ski resorts accessible from GUC:
- Crested Butte Mountain Resort (30 miles, approximately 45 minutes drive)
- Monarch Mountain (52 miles, approximately 1 hour drive)
Ground transportation options from GUC include renting cars from major agencies (Hertz, Avis, and Budget) and using various shuttle services. While there is no public bus service to the airport, private shuttle companies provide regular transfers to both Crested Butte Mountain Resort and the historic town of Crested Butte. The drive to Crested Butte follows the scenic Highway 135 through the Gunnison Valley, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Winter travelers should note that weather conditions occasionally affect flights due to the airport’s mountain location.
Durango-La Plata County Airport
Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO) serves as the primary commercial airport for Southwest Colorado’s Four Corners region. Located 12 miles southeast of Durango, this city and county-owned facility plays a vital role in connecting the region to major hubs while providing access to Southwest Colorado’s outdoor recreation destinations, including Purgatory Resort.
| Fact | Data |
|---|---|
| IATA/ICAO Codes | DRO/KDRO |
| Airlines Served | 3 (American, United, United Express) |
| Annual Passengers (2020) | 387,000 |
| Number of Runways | 1 |
| Runway Length | 9,201 ft × 150 ft |
| Elevation | 6,685 feet above sea level |
| Terminal Size | 3 boarding gates |
| Based Aircraft | 69 |
The airport has undergone several significant expansions since its opening in 1946, with improvements focused on accommodating increased ski traffic and larger aircraft. The facility features modern amenities including a pre-security restaurant, gift shop, and free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. Year-round service is maintained to major hubs including Denver, Dallas/Fort Worth, and Phoenix-Sky Harbor, with seasonal routes added during peak travel periods.
Nearby ski resorts accessible from DRO:
- Purgatory Resort (32 miles, approximately 45 minutes drive)
- Wolf Creek Ski Area (84 miles, approximately 1 hour 45 minutes drive)
- Telluride Ski Resort (107 miles, approximately 2 hours 15 minutes drive)
Ground transportation options from DRO include rental cars, shuttle services, and private transportation companies. The drive to Purgatory Resort follows the scenic US Highway 550, also known as the “Million Dollar Highway,” offering spectacular views of the San Juan Mountains. During the winter months, this airport maintains reliable operations despite its mountain location, though travelers should always check weather conditions during the snowy season.
San Luis Valley Regional Airport
San Luis Valley Regional Airport (ALS), also known as Bergman Field, serves as a critical transportation link for Colorado’s San Luis Valley region. Located just two miles south of Alamosa, this Essential Air Service (EAS) airport provides vital air connectivity for the region, particularly benefiting visitors heading to Wolf Creek Ski Area, one of Colorado’s snowiest ski resorts.
| Fact | Data |
|---|---|
| IATA/ICAO Codes | ALS/KALS |
| Airlines Served | 1 (Denver Air Connection) |
| Annual Passengers (2019) | 10,044 |
| Number of Runways | 1 |
| Runway Length | 8,519 ft × 100 ft |
| Elevation | 7,539 feet above sea level |
| Terminal Size | New terminal completed in 2015 |
| Based Aircraft | 45 |
The airport has shown steady growth in recent years, reaching over 10,000 enplanements in 2019, which elevated its status to a non-hub primary airport. Operating as a United Airlines carrier through Denver Air Connection, the airport maintains consistent daily flights to Denver International Airport. The facility features modern amenities in its relatively new terminal building, completed in 2015, and offers free parking for up to 30 days.
Nearby ski resorts accessible from ALS:
- Wolf Creek Ski Area (80 miles, approximately 1 hour 45 minutes drive)
- Monarch Mountain (120 miles, approximately 2 hours 30 minutes drive)
Ground transportation options from ALS include on-site car rentals through Hertz and various private shuttle services. The drive to Wolf Creek Ski Area follows Highway 160 east through the scenic Rio Grande National Forest and over Wolf Creek Pass. While the airport’s elevation can occasionally impact winter operations, its location in the San Luis Valley typically experiences less severe weather than surrounding mountain areas, making it a relatively reliable option for accessing southern Colorado’s ski destinations.
Grand Junction Regional Airport
Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT), formerly known as Walker Field, serves as the largest airport on Colorado’s Western Slope and the third-largest in the state. Located just four miles northeast of downtown Grand Junction, this facility plays a crucial role in connecting western Colorado to major destinations while providing access to nearby ski areas like Powderhorn Mountain Resort.
| Fact | Data |
|---|---|
| IATA/ICAO Codes | GJT/KGJT |
| Airlines Served | 5 (American, United, Delta, Allegiant, Breeze) |
| Annual Passengers (2010) | 219,358 |
| Number of Runways | 2 |
| Main Runway Length | 10,503 ft × 150 ft |
| Elevation | 4,861 feet above sea level |
| Terminal Size | 2,357 acres |
| Based Aircraft | 171 |
The airport has evolved significantly since its opening in 1930, with continuous improvements to accommodate increasing passenger traffic. As of 2024, GJT offers an impressive array of direct flights to major hubs including Denver, Dallas/Fort Worth, Phoenix, Las Vegas, and seasonal service to destinations like Orange County and San Francisco. The upcoming addition of Delta Air Lines service to Salt Lake City in December 2024 will further expand the airport’s connectivity.
Nearby ski resorts accessible from GJT:
- Powderhorn Mountain Resort (45 miles, approximately 1 hour drive)
- Telluride Ski Resort (126 miles, approximately 2 hours 45 minutes drive)
- Aspen/Snowmass (150 miles, approximately 3 hours drive)
Ground transportation options from GJT include five major car rental agencies (Alamo, Avis/Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National), taxi services, and the Grand Valley Transit (GVT) bus system. The drive to Powderhorn Mountain Resort follows the scenic Interstate 70 and Colorado Highway 65, offering stunning views of the Grand Mesa, the world’s largest flat-topped mountain. The airport’s location in the Grand Valley typically experiences milder weather than mountain airports, making it a reliable year-round option for travelers.
