Quick Info
Route: North Metro to Union Station. Thornton stations: 88th Ave, 104th Ave, Eastlake·124th. To downtown: 25-40 min depending on station. Fare: $5.25 one-way. Frequency: Every 15 min peak, 30 min off-peak. Park-and-ride: Free at all stations.
The N Line connects Thornton and the north metro area to downtown Denver. It's the best way to get to Union Station, sporting events, or downtown attractions without dealing with I-25 traffic and parking.
Thornton Stations
88th Ave Station
Southernmost Thornton station. Free park-and-ride lot. About 25 minutes to Union Station. Good access from I-25.
104th Ave Station
Central Thornton location. Larger park-and-ride facility. Near Thornton Town Center shopping.
Eastlake·124th Station
Northern Thornton terminus (currently). Park-and-ride available. Future extensions planned further north.
Schedule & Fares
Service Hours
Trains run approximately 4:30 AM to 1:30 AM daily. First and last trains vary by station—check RTD for exact times.
Frequency
Every 15 minutes during rush hour (6-9 AM, 3-6 PM). Every 30 minutes midday and evenings. Less frequent on weekends.
Fares
Thornton to downtown Denver is a Regional fare: $5.25 one-way, $10.50 day pass. Pay via RTD app or ticket machines at stations.
Park-and-Ride
All Thornton N Line stations have free park-and-ride lots. Lots can fill up during weekday rush hour—arrive early or consider the 104th station which has more capacity.
Connections
Union Station
Transfer to other light rail lines, regional buses, and the A Line to the airport.
Bus Connections
RTD buses connect to each N Line station for local Thornton and north metro destinations.
Airport Access
Take N Line to Union Station, transfer to A Line. About 70 minutes total to DIA.
Tips
Download the RTD app. Buy tickets, check real-time arrivals, and plan connections.
Check event schedules. Trains get crowded for Broncos games, concerts, and Rockies games. Allow extra time.
Park-and-ride early. 88th Ave lot fills fast. Consider 104th for more parking options.
Off-peak savings. Trains run every 30 minutes outside rush hour, but you'll always find a seat.
Bikes allowed. Bring bikes on trains (limited space during rush hour). Bike lockers at stations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get to downtown Denver?
25-40 minutes depending on which Thornton station. 88th Ave is closest at about 25 minutes.
Is park-and-ride free?
Yes. All N Line stations in Thornton have free parking lots.
Can I take the N Line to the airport?
Yes—transfer to the A Line at Union Station. Total trip is about 70 minutes.
Is the N Line safe?
Generally yes. RTD has security and stations are well-lit. Normal transit awareness applies.