How to Get From Denver Airport to Colorado Ski Resorts?

Colorado’s world-renowned ski resorts offer pristine slopes and unforgettable experiences for winter sports enthusiasts. For many visitors, the journey begins at Denver Airport (DEN), which is the main gateway to the Rocky Mountains. Flying into Denver Airport is often the first step in a memorable ski vacation, providing easy access to some of North America’s best skiing and snowboarding destinations.

how to get from denver airport to ski resorts

Once you’ve landed in Denver, navigating to your chosen ski resort is the next crucial step. Fortunately, numerous transportation options in the Colorado Rocky Mountains suit various preferences, group sizes, and budgets. Each option offers advantages and considerations, from public transit and shared shuttles to private car services and rental vehicles. Understanding these choices is vital to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable start to your mountain adventure.

Factors to Consider:

  1. Destination: Some resorts are more accessible than others, which may limit your transportation options or make some more appealing than others.
  2. Group size: Larger groups might find private shuttles or rental cars more cost-effective and convenient.
  3. Luggage and equipment: If you’re bringing your skis or snowboards, you’ll need transportation to accommodate these bulky items.
  4. Budget: Consider the total cost, including hidden expenses like parking fees for rental cars or food costs during longer public transportation journeys.
  5. Arrival time: Late arrivals might have limited public transportation options, making a private shuttle or rental car more appealing.
  6. Winter driving experience: If you’re not confident handling winter mountain driving conditions, hiring a professional driver or using alternative transportation is better.

The Route from Denver International Airport

Most ski resorts are accessible via Interstate 70 (I-70), the main east-west highway through Colorado. Navigating the I-70 Mountain Corridor can be challenging, especially during winter months. Preparing for winter driving conditions, including steep grades, sharp turns, and potentially icy roads, is crucial. Understanding Colorado’s traction and chain laws is essential for safe travel, particularly if renting a car or driving your vehicle. It’s also worth mentioning that While many of the most famous Colorado ski resorts, such as Vail and Aspen, require longer travel times, there are several excellent ski resort options close to Denver Airport that are worth considering for a less complicated and shorter journey. 

Resort NameDistance from DENTransportation OptionsTravel Time (by car)
Eldora74 milesRTD bus service (Ski-n-Ride), shuttle services, car rental90 minutes
Loveland80 milesCDOT Snowstang bus service (weekends), shuttle services, car rental90 minutes
Arapahoe Basin88 milesCDOT Snowstang bus service (weekends), Summit Stage bus (free, transfer required), shuttle services, car rental105 minutes
Winter Park89 milesAmtrak Winter Park Express (weekends), shuttle services, car rental120 minutes
Keystone99 milesSummit Stage bus (free, transfer required), shuttle services, car rental120 minutes
Copper Mountain100 milesSummit Stage bus (free, transfer required), shuttle services, car rental105 minutes
Breckenridge104 milesSummit Stage bus (free, transfer required), shuttle services, car rental120 minutes
Vail120 milesCDOT Bustang bus service, ECO Transit bus (transfer required), shuttle services, car rental150 minutes
Beaver Creek133 milesECO Transit bus (transfer required), shuttle services, car rental150 minutes
Aspen220 milesShuttle services, car rental240 minutes

Transportation Options from DIA to Ski Resorts

Denver International Airport (DIA) offers a wide range of ground transportation options to and from the airport. These include taxis, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, public buses, trains, and rental cars, all well-suited for trips within the Denver metro area or to nearby destinations. However, not all these options are equally practical or convenient for airport-to-ski-resort transfers, particularly to those located further in the Rocky Mountains.

Public transportation, including trains and buses, provides a budget-friendly alternative that connects DIA to various ski resorts. Although this option may involve multiple transfers and longer travel times, it can be an excellent choice for cost-conscious travelers or those who prefer a more environmentally friendly approach. Mountain ski shuttles, private car services, and rental cars are also available for those seeking a more direct route, offering a balance of convenience and flexibility. Ultimately, the best transportation choice depends on your specific preferences, budget, and the location of your chosen resort.

Transportation OptionTravel TimeCost RangeConvenienceBest For
Rental Car1.5-4 hours$50-$150/dayHighFlexibility, multiple destinations
Mountain Ski Shuttle2-5 hours$65-$120 one-wayMediumBudget-conscious travelers
Private Car Service1.5-4 hours$200-$600 one-wayHighLuxury travel, groups
Public Bus3-6 hours$12-$25 one-wayLowBudget travelers, single destination
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)1.5-4 hours$150-$300 one-wayMedium-HighSmall groups, single destination
Train (to Winter Park)2 hours$29-$59 one-wayMediumScenic route, avoid traffic

Public Transportation

Public transportation provides an affordable and environmentally friendly way to reach the ski resorts. While it may require more planning and longer travel times, it can be an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers or those who prefer to avoid driving in winter conditions. Colorado offers several public transportation options for skiers and snowboarders, including train and bus services that connect Denver to various mountain destinations.

Amtrak Winter Park Express

FeatureDetails
Travel TimeApproximately 2 hours
PriceStarting at $29 one-way
ScheduleDeparts Denver early morning, returns evening
Capacity500+ passengers

The Winter Park Express, affectionately known as the Ski Train, offers a unique and scenic journey from Denver to Winter Park Resort. This train service operates on weekends and select Fridays from January through March, departing from Denver’s historic Union Station. The journey takes passengers through some of Colorado’s most breathtaking mountain scenery, including the historic Moffat Tunnel.

✅ Pros:

  • Scenic route through the Rocky Mountains
  • No traffic concerns or weather-related delays
  • Comfortable seating with onboard amenities
  • Arrives directly at Winter Park Resort base

❌ Cons:

  • Limited schedule (weekends and select Fridays only)
  • Only serves Winter Park Resort
  • Advance booking required
  • May sell out during peak times

The Winter Park Express is an excellent option for those looking to combine their transportation with a unique Colorado experience. The train’s panoramic windows offer stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, and the absence of traffic concerns allows passengers to relax and enjoy the journey. However, its limited schedule and single destination may not suit all travelers’ needs.

RTD Bus to Eldora

FeatureDetails
Travel TimeApproximately 1 hour from Boulder
PriceRegular local fare + small ski surcharge
ScheduleFrequent service during ski season
RouteBoulder – Nederland – Eldora

For those interested in skiing at Eldora Mountain Resort, the Regional Transportation District (RTD) offers a seasonal bus service called the Ski-n-Ride. This service operates from Boulder, providing a convenient and affordable option for reaching Eldora, especially for those staying in the Boulder area or willing to make the initial journey from Denver to Boulder.

✅ Pros:

  • Affordable option with regular local fare plus small ski surcharge
  • Frequent service during ski season
  • Environmentally friendly choice
  • Avoids parking hassles at the resort

❌ Cons:

  • Requires getting to Boulder from Denver first
  • Longer travel time compared to driving
  • Limited to Eldora Mountain Resort

The Ski-n-Ride service is an excellent choice for budget-conscious skiers and riders comfortable with a multi-step journey. It’s particularly convenient for those already in the Boulder area or those combining a ski trip with a visit to Boulder. However, travelers coming directly from Denver Airport will need to factor in the additional time and cost of getting to Boulder first.

CDOT Bustang and Snowstang Services

ServiceDestinationsPrice Range (One-Way)Schedule
BustangVail, Frisco$17 – $25Multiple daily departures
SnowstangLoveland, A-Basin, Steamboat$25 – $40Weekends and holidays during ski season

Colorado’s Department of Transportation offers two bus services, Bustang and Snowstang, catering to those traveling to ski resorts. Bustang operates year-round, providing multiple daily departures from Denver Union Station to Vail and Frisco, which are gateways to Summit County and Eagle County resorts. On the other hand, Snowstang runs seasonally on weekends and holidays during the ski season, serving destinations like Loveland Ski Area, Arapahoe Basin, and Steamboat Springs. Both services offer affordable and convenient alternatives for reaching mountain destinations, especially beneficial for those who prefer not to drive in winter conditions.

✅ Pros:

  • Affordable option
  • Professional drivers experienced in mountain driving
  • Avoid parking hassles at resorts
  • Wi-Fi and restrooms onboard
  • Environmentally friendly choice

❌ Cons:

  • Fixed schedules may not align perfectly with your plans
  • Longer travel times due to multiple stops
  • Limited luggage space for ski equipment
  • Services may be crowded during peak times

Both Bustang and Snowstang offer a balance of affordability and convenience, making them attractive options for budget-conscious travelers or those who prefer to leave the driving to professionals. The services appeal to solo travelers or small groups who might find private transportation options cost-prohibitive. However, the fixed schedules and potential for longer travel times due to stops may not suit all travelers, especially those with tight itineraries or large amounts of equipment.

Mountain Ski Shuttle Services

Service TypePrice Range (One-Way)Travel TimeBest For
Shared Shuttle$65 – $1202-5 hoursBudget-conscious travelers, solo travelers
Private Shuttle$200 – $6001.5-4 hoursGroups, families, those seeking more comfort and flexibility

Mountain ski shuttle services balance convenience, comfort, and reliability, making them popular for travelers heading to ski resorts. These services combine the benefits of professional drivers experienced in mountain travel with the convenience of door-to-door transportation, often at a more affordable price point than private car services. These services typically offer shared and private options, with prices varying based on destination and service level. Shared shuttles are more economical, while private shuttles provide greater flexibility and personalized service.

✅ Pros:

  • Door-to-door service from airport to accommodation
  • Professional drivers experienced in mountain driving
  • No need to navigate unfamiliar roads or worry about parking
  • Can be cost-effective for small groups

❌ Cons:

  • More expensive than public transportation options
  • Shared shuttles can have longer travel times due to multiple stops
  • Shared shuttles to adhere to a set schedule
  • Less flexibility for impromptu stops or itinerary changes

Booking a shuttle service in advance is essential, especially during peak ski season. Many services offer online booking and provide detailed information about pick-up locations, luggage restrictions, and travel times. Some airport shuttles also offer amenities like Wi-Fi, making the journey more comfortable and allowing passengers to catch up on work or entertainment during the trip.

Rental Cars

Vehicle TypeDaily Rental RateAdditional Considerations
Economy/Compact$50 – $80May not be suitable for mountain driving
SUV (AWD/4WD)$80 – $150Better suited for winter conditions

Renting a car at Denver International Airport offers the most flexibility for travelers. You can explore at your own pace and make stops along the way. This option is particularly appealing for those who value independence and have experience with winter driving conditions.

✅ Pros:

  • Maximum flexibility and independence
  • Ability to explore multiple destinations
  • Can be cost-effective for longer stays or larger groups
  • Convenient for carrying ski equipment and luggage
  • Freedom to make impromptu stops at scenic viewpoints or mountain towns

❌ Cons:

  • Winter driving experience required
  • Need to be prepared for mountain driving conditions
  • Parking can be expensive and limited at some resorts
  • Additional costs include gas, potential toll roads, and insurance
  • Responsibility for navigating unfamiliar mountain roads

When renting a car for a ski trip, it is crucial to select a vehicle suitable for winter mountain driving, such as an SUV with all-wheel or four-wheel drive. Many rental companies offer winter packages that include snow tires or chains, which can be a worthwhile investment for your safety and peace of mind. Remember to factor in additional costs such as gas, resort parking fees, and potential toll roads (like E-470 around Denver). Also, consider purchasing additional insurance coverage, especially if you’re not experienced with winter driving conditions in Colorado.

Rideshare Services

While rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate at Denver International Airport, they have significant limitations for long-distance trips to ski resorts. These services are generally better suited for transportation within Denver or at your destination resort rather than for the airport-to-resort journey.

DestinationEstimated Price RangeAvailability
Summit County Resorts$250 – $350Limited
Vail/Beaver Creek$300 – $400Very Limited
Aspen/Snowmass$600 – $700Rare

It’s important to note that these prices can fluctuate significantly based on demand, time of day, and weather conditions. During peak times or severe weather, surge pricing can dramatically increase costs. Additionally, finding a driver willing to make the long journey to a ski resort can be challenging, and there’s always a risk of last-minute cancellations.

✅ Pros:

  • Familiar and easy-to-use service
  • No need to worry about parking or navigation
  • Can be convenient for short trips within Denver or at your destination resort

❌ Cons:

  • Limited availability for long trips to ski resorts
  • Can be prohibitively expensive, especially during peak times or inclement weather
  • Drivers may not have experience with mountain driving or appropriate vehicles
  • Potential for cancellations or difficulty finding a driver willing to make the long trip

If you do choose to use a rideshare service for a longer trip, it’s advisable to schedule your ride in advance (if the option is available) and to confirm with your driver that they are comfortable with the mountain journey and have an appropriate vehicle for winter conditions.

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Final Thoughts About Getting from Denver Airport to The Ski Resorts

Getting from Denver Airport to Colorado’s ski resorts requires careful planning and consideration of your unique needs and preferences. Whether you opt for the convenience of a private shuttle, the freedom of a rental car, the budget-friendly public transportation, or the flexibility of rideshare services, understanding the pros and cons of each option is key to making an informed decision.

By weighing factors such as group size, luggage and equipment, budget, arrival time, destination, and winter driving experience, you can select the transportation method to set you up for a successful and enjoyable ski vacation in Colorado’s stunning mountains. Remember to plan, allow extra time for travel, and stay informed about weather conditions to ensure a smooth journey from DIA to the slopes.