Quick Info
From Denver: 15 miles via US-36, 20-30 minutes. From Boulder: 10 miles via US-36, 15-20 minutes. From DEN airport: 30 miles, 45-60 minutes. Transit: RTD Flatiron Flyer bus service. Key highway: US-36 with express toll lanes.
Broomfield's location midway between Denver and Boulder makes it accessible from both cities. US-36 is the primary route, with express toll lanes that make travel times predictable even during rush hour.
From Denver
By Car
Distance: About 15 miles from downtown Denver. Time: 20-30 minutes via US-36.
Route: Take I-25 North to US-36 West (Boulder Turnpike). Exit at Flatiron Parkway or Interlocken Boulevard depending on destination.
Express Lanes
US-36 has toll express lanes that bypass congestion. Tolls vary by traffic—higher during rush hour. Worth it during peak times to avoid delays.
By Transit
RTD Flatiron Flyer (FF) buses run along US-36 between Denver and Boulder with Broomfield stops. Service from Union Station.
From Boulder
By Car
Distance: About 10 miles. Time: 15-20 minutes via US-36.
Route: US-36 East from Boulder. Exit at Flatiron Parkway for Flatiron Crossing area or continue to Interlocken.
By Transit
Flatiron Flyer buses connect Boulder to Broomfield. Bike + bus combination possible using US-36 bikeway.
From Denver Airport
By Car
Distance: About 30 miles. Time: 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Route: Take Peña Boulevard to I-70 West, then US-36 West to Broomfield. Or take E-470 North to Northwest Parkway to US-36.
By Transit
A Line from DEN to Union Station, then Flatiron Flyer bus to Broomfield. Total time about 90 minutes including transfers.
By Rideshare
Uber/Lyft from DEN to Broomfield typically $40-55. About 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Getting Around Broomfield
By Car
Most practical option. Broomfield is suburban—destinations are spread out. Parking is generally free and available.
By Bike
Excellent trail system connects many destinations. US-36 bikeway connects to Boulder and Westminster.
By Bus
RTD local bus service exists but is limited. Most visitors drive.
Tips
Use express lanes. During rush hour, the toll lanes save significant time. Worth the cost.
Avoid rush hour if possible. US-36 gets congested 7-9am and 4-7pm. Plan around peak times.
E-470 from airport. Taking E-470/Northwest Parkway avoids I-25 congestion but costs tolls.
Bike connections. The US-36 bikeway is a legitimate transportation option if you're staying in Boulder or Denver and want car-free access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is US-36 always congested?
Rush hours are slow in general lanes. Express lanes stay moving. Off-peak times are generally fine.
How much are express lane tolls?
Varies by traffic—typically $2-8 depending on congestion. Higher during rush hour.
Do I need a car in Broomfield?
Practically, yes. It's suburban. Transit exists but driving is much more convenient.
Is there Uber/Lyft?
Yes—rideshare services are available throughout Broomfield.
Can I bike from Denver to Broomfield?
Yes—the US-36 bikeway connects the metro area. About 15 miles from downtown Denver.