So, you’ve just landed at Denver International Airport (DIA), and you’re itching to hit the slopes. This guide, “How to get to ski resorts from Denver” is here to help you make the best decision.
Don’t stress – I’m here to walk you through all the options. Think of this as your friendly, informative buddy who’s been there, done that, and knows all the best ways to make the journey smooth and hassle-free.
This article is intended for those looking to travel to the mountains located along the I70 corridor. How to get to ski resorts from Denver, such as: Keystone, Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, Vail and Beaver Creek.
How To Get To Ski Resorts From Denver
Choosing the right mode of transportation is key to a successful ski trip.
You want something that fits your budget, schedule, and comfort level. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with family, there’s an option that’s just right for you. We have complied the top 5 ways on how to get to ski resorts from Denver. Let’s dive in!
Comparison Chart
| Option | One Way Price Range | Advantages | Disadvantages | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Transportation | $27 per person | Budget-friendly, eco-conscious, local experience | Time-consuming, multiple transfers, limited schedules | Budget travelers, patient explorers |
| Shuttle Services | $59-$129 per person | Optional door-to-door service, no driving stress, comfortable | Waiting for other passengers, slightly more expensive | Groups, families, solo travelers |
| Rental Cars & Turo | $60-$150 per day + gas/parking | Freedom to explore, cost-effective for groups, no waiting | Driving in winter, parking and gas costs, rental expenses during peak season | Adventurous travelers, groups |
| Private Car Services | $300-$500 per ride | Luxury, comfort, personalized, direct service | Most expensive option, limited availability | Families, groups wanting luxury |
| Personal Vehicle | $180 Monthly airport parking + gas | Personal vehicle, comfort, freedom, doubles as Storage for ski gear | Must road trip to and from Colorado. You need access to an extra car while your vehicle stays in CO | Super hack for the avid skier who takes multiple trips to CO |
Ground Transportation – How to Get To Ski Resorts From Denver
Public Transportation
The Budget Choice:
The cheapest way to get to ski resorts located off the I70 from (DIA), is public transportation. If you have the time, and are traveling on a budget, this is the most economical choice. For as low as $27 one way, you can be skiing the best resorts in Colorado.
RTD
Your journey starts when you arrive at the Denver Airport (DIA).
Take the $10 RTD Train (A Line) located at the South Exit of the airport terminal.
The RTD train (A Line) runs from DIA to Union Station approx. every 20 minutes. It’s a comfortable, 45 minute train ride.
If you are on a time crunch, Uber is a faster way to get to Union Station from DIA.
Bustang
From Union Station, take the $17 Bustang Bus (West Line) towards Grand Junction. Depending on your desired destination, stops include towns of Frisco, Vail and Avon.
The Bustang is a very comfortable, large capacity coach. It offers ample storage space for gear bags and other luggage.
In ideal weather conditions, the bus ride takes 1 hour 45 minutes to get to Frisco and 2.5 hours to get to Vail. The bus ride can take much longer in inclement weather or due to traffic on I70.
The Bustang departs approximately every 2 hours from Union Station; the seats are first come first serve.
To ensure a seat, it is best to get to the gate at least 30 minutes prior to departure. If the bus is full, you will need to wait 2 hours for the next bus to depart.
Download the JustRide Bustang App to purchase tickets and for scheduling info.
If your destination is located in Summit County, you will want to exit the Bustang in the town of Frisco. (Keystone, Breckenridge, Copper Mountain).
Once you arrive at the Frisco transit center, you can transfer to another bus to your final destination. The FREE Summit Stage bus will get you around Summit County resorts with ease.
If you are heading farther west to Vail, the Bustang will take you to the Vail Transportation Center. From the Vail transportation center, hop on a FREE Vail public bus, to get you to your final destination.
If Beaver Creek is your preferred endpoint, the Bustang stops at Avon Station. From here, you can take a FREE Avon bus around the town of Avon.
The ECO bus costs a small fee, but services the greater Eagle County area. You can get you to and from Vail, Beaver Creek and surrounding areas from Vail Transportation Center or Avon Station on an Eco Bus.
Greyhound
Greyhound offers bus service from Downtown Denver’s Union Station to Frisco and Vail Transportation Centers. Check Schedules for times and current pricing. The Greyhound is known to be less reliable than the Bustang, we prefer to take the Bustang when traveling by bus.
Advantages
- Budget-friendly.
- Good for the eco-conscious traveler.
- Experience local commuting.
Disadvantages
- More time-consuming.
- Less convenient with multiple transfers.
- Limited schedules might not align perfectly with your arrival time.
Is public transportation just not for you? Let’s look at some more convenient ways on how to get to ski resorts from Denver.
Ski Shuttle Service
The Convenient Choice: Shuttle services are a popular choice for many travelers, and for good reason.
They offer a balance of convenience and cost-effectiveness. Most shuttles provide comfortable rides with Wi-Fi and plenty of space for your gear. They are perfect if you want to relax and enjoy a stress free scenic ride.
All companies below offer shared and private services. Peak season rates are higher than low season rates. Here are the options:
Epic Mountain Express Shuttle provides shared and private shuttle service from DIA to ski resorts and private accommodations.
Pricing for shared shuttle service ranges from $119- $129 one way, per person. Epic season pass holders are eligible for discounts.
Summit Express offers 10 daily shared shuttle departures from DIA to Summit County (Keystone, Breck, Copper) and Eagle County (Vail, Beaver Creek). Shared shuttle prices range from $65-$75 one way, per person.
Peak 1 Express Shuttle provides daily shared service from DIA to I70 corridor mountains and private accommodations. Prices range from $59-$99 one way, per person.
Always make sure to check the schedules for current pricing and promotion information.
Advantages
- Door-to-door service.
- No need to worry about driving in snowy conditions.
- You can catch up on some sleep or enjoy the views.
Disadvantages
- Might have to wait for other passengers.
- Slightly more expensive than other budget options.
If taking a shuttle feels to restrictive, lets explore some other options on how to get to ski resorts from Denver.
Rental Car – Freedom to Roam
If you prefer having your own wheels, renting a car is the way to go. This option offers the most flexibility and freedom to explore at your own pace.
Most major rental car companies are available at DIA. All rental car offices are located off site. Shuttles are provided just outside the baggage claim area.
Walk out the baggage claim doors to the appropriate island, and find your rental car shuttle.
It is best to reserve a 4×4 or AWD vehicle in advance, when driving I70 in winter.
Rental car companies sell out of these type of vehicles during winter. Don’t waste time at the counter or get swindled into an upgrade, make sure to request a 4×4 in advance.
We highly recommend AGAINST using Fox Rental Car. It is a huge hassle and the shuttles are terrible (If you even get on, the first time around). Their office is overloaded with customers, with limited agents working. It can take hours to get a car and wreck havoc at the start of your trip.
Spend the extra money and use a reputable company.
Turo – Alternative Rental Car
We love Turo! Renting a car on Turo is usually an easy option at DIA. Many cars are located in the airport parking lots. It can be a huge money and time saver!
We recommend only booking cars with airport pickup and drop off. Denver is a large city and the airport is miles away. Taking an Uber to get to the vehicle is a time and money waster.
Using Turo should be easier than renting a car; if it’s not, find a different car. Read the reviews before deciding on the vehicle.
We have found our best experiences with Turo to be with renters who have multiple vehicles and are in the business of renting Turo’s. They seem to offer newer, cleaner and well maintained cars and a better overall professional experience.
Make sure to rent a 4×4 or AWD vehicle when driving in winter. The I70 can be a dangerous place during a storm.
Advantages
- Complete freedom to explore other areas.
- Can be cost-effective if you’re traveling with a group.
- No waiting for shuttles or other passengers.
Disadvantages
- Driving in winter conditions can be challenging if you’re not experienced.
- Additional costs for parking and gas.
- Required to clean the car upon return.
Private Car Services
The Luxury Choice: For those looking to start their vacation in style, private car services offer luxury and comfort.
Companies like Black Mountain Limo offer private car service, from both DIA as well as EGE (Vail Airport). Think of it as having your own chauffeur – stress free and ultra comfortable.
Advantages
- Direct, no stops.
- High comfort level with personalized service.
- Great for families or groups wanting to travel together.
Disadvantages
- Most expensive option.
- Availability can be limited during peak season.
Personal Vehicle
The Frequent Travelers Choice: This is the ultimate travel hack on how to get to ski resorts from Denver.
Having access to affordable transportation can make more trips to Colorado ski resorts possible. If you are an avid skier, and plan to take 3 or more trips to Colorado, this might be an option for you.
Think outside the box, drive your personal vehicle to Colorado for an amazing ski vacation and fly home. Leave your car parked in the long term monthly parking lots at the Denver Airport!
Monthly airport parking is affordable at DIA! Now you can fly back to Denver at your leisure for as many ski trips as you can fit in this season, and your car will be waiting for you!
There are 3 great options for affordable off site monthly parking at the Denver airport.
Prices range from $150-$195 per month, for pre-paid uncovered monthly parking.
These parking lots are located a few miles away from DIA, and offer free shuttle service. This makes getting to and from the airport a breeze and saves tons of time and money.
Parking our own vehicle at DIA allows us to fly to Colorado every other week to snowboard at our favorite CO resorts! We save thousands of dollars and tons of time by using this expert level hack.
Advantages
- Cost effective for the repeat traveler.
- Visit multiple areas with freedom to roam.
- Saves time and is hassle free.
- Doubles as storage for gear.
- Make money by turning it into a business with Turo.
Disadvantages
- Must take a roadtrip to Denver.
- Need access to a second vehicle.
- Monthly parking fees.
Does using a personal car peak your interest? Then you will love our article “How to Save Money Skiing and Snowboarding in CO.”
Planning Your Route – How To Get To Ski Resorts From Denver
Traffic is the most important thing to consider when traveling I70. Weekends are extremely busy, this is something that many travelers under estimate.
Locals who live in Denver, have a huge impact on traffic and public transportation options.
Denver’s weekend ski warriors travel I70 west on Saturday mornings. Every Saturday between 6am-11am, traffic is a nightmare.
Driving time can take as long as 4 hours to get to ski resorts from Denver on a Saturday. It can take even longer to get back to Denver from the mountains on a Sunday afternoon or evening.
It is best to AVIOD weekend travel altogether.
The roads, airports, rental car companies and buses, are all impacted from weekend travel.
Friday afternoons can also get busy with traffic. Locals attempt to leave Denver after work on Friday’s, traveling I70 west, ahead of the Saturday morning traffic.
If you must travel on a weekend, get in early on a Friday and leave on a Monday. Attempt to plan your trip to avoid traffic.
Traveling in the opposite direction of the flow of traffic, will make your journey to the best Colorado ski resorts a breeze.
Final Thoughts – How To Get To Ski Resorts From Denver
Ultimately, the best option depends on your personal preferences and circumstances.
If you’re on a budget, public transportation is the least expensive way to travel. If you have the time and patience, public transportation can get you to the best Colorado ski resorts. However, It can take hours longer than a direct option to get to your final destination.
If you value convenience and are willing to spend a bit more, shuttle services offer a more direct route to your accommodations. With multiple service providers available, you are sure to find one that suits your needs and schedule.
If you love the freedom to explore, renting a car or a Turo is the way to go. The Denver Airport makes renting easy, with frequent shuttles available just outside baggage claim.
For the avid skier or snowboarder who plans to take multiple ski trips to Colorado, using your personal vehicle may be the best choice. Save time and money with this extreme travel hack.
So, there you have it – all the options on how to get to ski resorts from denver. Choose the one that fits your style, budget, and adventure level, and get ready to enjoy the best of Colorado’s snowy peaks!
FAQs
Q: How long does it take to get from DIA to the resorts?
A: It depends on the resort and traffic, but typically 2-3 hours to Vail or Breckenridge.
Q: Can I book shuttle services in advance?
A: Absolutely! It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Q: Is driving to the resorts safe?
A: If you’re comfortable driving in snow and equipped with the right vehicle, yes. Otherwise, consider shuttle services or private cars.
Now, pack your bags, get your gear ready, and enjoy the ride! See you on the mountain.
For more Colorado ski resort planning tips please read our article “Best Ski Resorts in Colorado: Top Tips & Local Advice.”
