Denver Airport to Steamboat Springs | DIA Shuttles & Transport Options

Quick Facts: DIA to Steamboat

A different route than the I-70 resorts

Distance: 160 miles via Highway 40

Drive Time: 3-3.5 hours

Route: I-70 west to Empire, then Highway 40 over Berthoud Pass to Steamboat Springs

The Good News: No I-70 Tunnel Traffic

Unlike Vail and Breckenridge, the route to Steamboat exits I-70 before the Eisenhower Tunnel—avoiding the worst ski weekend traffic. Berthoud Pass can have weather delays, but you'll skip the 2-hour backup that plagues I-70 resorts.

Price Comparison

Option	Price	Best For
Shared Shuttle	$85-110/person	Solo/couples
Private SUV	$450-550	Groups, families
Fly to Steamboat (HDN)	Varies	Time-conscious
Rental Car	$80-140/day	Exploration

Fly Direct to Steamboat?

Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN)

Steamboat has its own airport (HDN), just 22 miles from the ski area. During ski season, direct flights operate from major cities.

Why Fly to HDN

Skip the 3-hour drive entirely
30-minute shuttle to the resort
Arrive fresh for skiing
Direct flights from Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, and more

Why Drive from DIA

More flight options to Denver
Often cheaper airfare
Scenic drive over Berthoud Pass
Flexibility with timing

Bottom line: If direct flights to Steamboat are available from your city, they're often worth it. If connecting anyway, Denver may be more convenient.

Transportation Options from DIA

Getting to Steamboat Springs

Shared Shuttles ($85-110/person)

Regular service from DIA to Steamboat, though fewer departures than the I-70 resorts.

Storm Mountain Express – Primary Steamboat shuttle
Go Alpine – Shared and private options
3.5-4 hours with stops
Book at least 1 week ahead in winter

Private Car/SUV ($450-550)

Direct service for groups. The 3-hour drive is long enough that private transport offers significant comfort advantages.

Up to 6 passengers
Door-to-door service
No stops—direct to your lodging
Per person cost for 4: ~$125 (similar to shuttle)

Rental Car

The drive is scenic and avoids the worst traffic, making renting more appealing than for I-70 resorts.

AWD recommended—Berthoud Pass is steep
Winter Park is a convenient stop on the way
Good option if you want to explore Yampa Valley
Free Steamboat bus system means you don't need the car daily

The Route: Berthoud Pass

Highway 40 over Berthoud Pass is beautiful but requires respect in winter:

11,315 feet at the summit
Steep grades with switchbacks
Can close in severe weather
Check CDOT conditions before traveling

Frequently Asked Questions

DIA to Steamboat transportation

How long is the drive from Denver Airport to Steamboat Springs?

About 3-3.5 hours via Highway 40 over Berthoud Pass. Unlike I-70 resorts, you avoid the worst ski traffic since the route exits before the tunnel.

Is it better to fly to Steamboat or drive from Denver?

If direct flights to Steamboat (HDN) are available from your city, they're worth considering—you'll arrive in 30 minutes vs 3+ hours. If you're connecting anyway, Denver offers more options.

How much is a shuttle from DIA to Steamboat?

Shared shuttles run $85-110 per person. Private SUVs for groups cost $450-550 total. Book ahead—Steamboat has fewer shuttle options than I-70 resorts.

Is Berthoud Pass difficult to drive in winter?

It requires attention—steep grades, switchbacks, and winter conditions. AWD/4WD and winter tires strongly recommended. The road is well-maintained but can close in severe storms.

Denver Airport to Steamboat