Denver to Black Hawk

Quick Facts: Denver to Black Hawk

An easy day or night trip to the casinos

Distance: 40 miles via I-70 and Highway 119

Drive Time: 45-60 minutes

Route: I-70 west to Exit 244, then Highway 6 to Highway 119 through Clear Creek Canyon

Price Comparison

Option	Price	Best For
Casino Shuttle	Free-$15	Budget travelers, solo visitors
Uber/Lyft	$50-80	Flexibility, small groups
Limo Service	$200-400	Special occasions, groups
Drive Yourself	Gas + free parking	Flexibility, designated driver needed

Pro tip: Many casinos offer free or discounted shuttle service from Denver. Check with your destination casino for current schedules.

Casino Shuttles

The smart way to get to Black Hawk

Several casinos run shuttle services from Denver metro pickup points. This is the best option for most visitors—no driving on mountain roads after drinking, and often free or very cheap.

How Casino Shuttles Work

Pickup points in Denver metro (varies by casino)
Round-trip service included
Some require players club membership (free to join)
May include gaming credits or meal vouchers
Set schedules—check departure times

Major Casino Properties

Black Hawk has over 20 casinos. The largest include:

Monarch Casino Resort – Full resort with hotel, spa, restaurants
Ameristar Casino – Large gaming floor, multiple dining options
The Lodge Casino – Popular local favorite
Isle Casino – Good promotions for new players
Saratoga Casino – Intimate atmosphere

Contact your preferred casino directly for current shuttle schedules and pickup locations. Services change seasonally.

Other Transportation Options

Rideshare, limos, and driving

Uber/Lyft ($50-80)

Rideshare works well for Black Hawk, though availability can be limited for return trips late at night.

45-60 minutes from downtown Denver
Surge pricing possible on weekend nights
Getting a ride back can be challenging after midnight
Consider scheduling return ride in advance

Limo/Party Bus Service ($200-400)

Popular for groups and special occasions. Book a car or party bus for the night.

Round-trip service with wait time
Groups of 6-20 can split costs
Drinks allowed in vehicle
Professional driver, no DUI worries
Book ahead for weekend nights

Driving Yourself

The scenic route through Clear Creek Canyon is beautiful but requires focus—especially at night.

Free parking at all casinos
Winding mountain road (Highway 119)
Winter conditions can be challenging
Requires a designated driver if drinking

The Route

From Denver:

Take I-70 West to Exit 244 (Highway 6)
Follow Highway 6 through Clear Creek Canyon
Turn onto Highway 119 north to Black Hawk
Central City is just 1 mile further up the road

Black Hawk vs Central City

Understanding Colorado's twin casino towns

Black Hawk and Central City are adjacent—separated by just 1 mile. Both have casinos, but they offer different experiences:

Black Hawk

Larger, more modern casinos
Resort-style properties (Monarch, Ameristar)
More gaming options and higher limits
Most shuttle services terminate here

Central City

Historic Victorian architecture
Smaller, more intimate casinos
Famous Central City Opera House
Cheaper minimums, looser slots (some say)
More authentic Colorado mining town feel

Most visitors go to Black Hawk for the casinos, then walk or drive the short distance to Central City for the historic ambiance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Denver to Black Hawk transportation

Is there a free shuttle to Black Hawk from Denver?

Several casinos offer free or low-cost shuttles. Contact individual casinos for current schedules. Services and pickup locations change, so always verify before your trip.

How long is the drive from Denver to Black Hawk?

About 45-60 minutes via I-70 and Highway 119 through Clear Creek Canyon. The route is scenic but winding, especially the last portion.

Can I take Uber to Black Hawk?

Yes, Uber and Lyft serve Black Hawk. Expect $50-80 from downtown Denver. Getting a ride back late at night can be difficult—consider scheduling in advance or using casino shuttles.

Is parking free at Black Hawk casinos?

Yes, all Black Hawk casinos offer free parking. Most have attached garages. Street parking is also free but limited.

What's the best way to get to Black Hawk without driving?

Casino shuttles are the best option—often free, reliable schedules, and you don't have to worry about the drive home. Limo service works well for groups celebrating special occasions.