Denver Airport Transportation

Getting From DIA

Your options from Denver International Airport

Denver International Airport (DEN/DIA) is the fifth-busiest airport in the United States and the gateway to Colorado. Located 25 miles northeast of downtown Denver, it's well-connected but requires planning—especially for ski resort destinations.

Ground transportation is on Level 5 of the Jeppesen Terminal, accessible after exiting security and taking the train from the gates. Shuttles, rental cars, taxis, and rideshare all operate from this level. The RTD A Line train to downtown departs from the Transit Center adjacent to the terminal.

Choose your transportation based on destination, group size, budget, and flexibility needs. Ski resort shuttles should be booked in advance. Downtown Denver has multiple affordable options.

Ski Resort Transfers

DIA to Colorado's mountain destinations

100mi

DIA to Vail

2-2.5 hours via I-70. Shared shuttle from $75/person. Private SUV from $350. Colorado's premier ski destination.

90mi

DIA to Breckenridge

1.5-2 hours via I-70. Shared shuttle from $65/person. Most popular ski shuttle route with frequent departures.

200mi

DIA to Aspen

4+ hours via I-70 and Highway 82. Private car from $550. Consider Aspen airport for shorter travel time.

160mi

DIA to Steamboat

3+ hours northwest via Highway 40. Avoids I-70 traffic. Steamboat also has its own airport (HDN).

80mi

DIA to Winter Park

1.5-2 hours via I-70. Unique Winter Park Express train option. Denver's closest major ski resort.

85mi

DIA to Keystone

1.5-2 hours via I-70. Summit County destination, often combined with Breckenridge shuttle service.

330mi

DIA to Telluride

6+ hours driving. Montrose airport (MTJ) is 90 minutes away—usually the better option. Remote luxury destination.

45mi

DIA to Boulder

45-60 minutes via Highway 36. RTD bus, shuttles, and rideshare all work. Year-round destination.

55mi

DIA to Black Hawk

1-1.5 hours. Private cars and limos for casino trips. Colorado's premier gaming destination.

Transportation Options at DIA

Comparing your choices

Shared Shuttles (Ski Resorts)

The most popular option for ski resort transfers. Companies like Epic Mountain Express, Colorado Mountain Express, and Peak 1 Express run scheduled departures throughout the day. Meet at Level 5, Island 5 (east side of terminal).

Cost: $55-100/person depending on destination
Advance booking required (especially holidays)
Multiple stops add 30-60 minutes to trip time
Ski/snowboard equipment included

Private Car/SUV

Door-to-door service on your schedule. Best value for groups of 4-6 people. Book through shuttle companies or luxury providers.

Cost: $300-600 to ski resorts (entire vehicle)
No stops—direct to your lodging
Flexible pickup times
Car seats available on request

RTD A Line Train (Downtown Denver)

Best option for downtown Denver. Departs from Transit Center every 15 minutes. Takes 37 minutes to Union Station.

Cost: $10.50 one-way
Runs 4am to 1am
No reservations needed
Free transfer to downtown buses/light rail

Uber/Lyft

Pick up at Level 5, Island 6. Works well for Denver metro destinations. Gets expensive for mountain trips.

Cost: $35-50 to downtown Denver
Cost: $180-250+ to ski resorts (if available)
No advance booking needed
Wait times vary (5-20 minutes typical)

Rental Cars

Take the train to the Rental Car Center. All major companies represented. AWD/4WD recommended for winter mountain driving.

Cost: $50-150/day plus gas
Maximum flexibility
Winter driving skills required for mountains
Parking fees at resorts ($30-50/day)

Taxis

Available at Level 5. Metered rates regulated by the airport. Less common than rideshare but reliable.

Cost: ~$60-70 to downtown Denver
No app needed
Flat rate to downtown available

Frequently Asked Questions

DIA transportation questions answered

Where do I catch shuttles at DIA?

Level 5 of the Jeppesen Terminal. After exiting security and taking the train from the gates, go up to Level 5. Ski shuttles typically meet at Island 5 on the east side. Check your confirmation for specific instructions.

How early should I book ski resort shuttles?

At least 1 week ahead during ski season. For holiday periods (Christmas, New Year's, Presidents Day), book 2-3 weeks in advance. Popular morning departures fill up first.

Is Uber cheaper than a shuttle to ski resorts?

No. Uber to Vail or Breckenridge typically costs $180-250+, versus $65-85 for shared shuttles. Uber makes sense for downtown Denver, not mountain destinations.

Should I rent a car or take a shuttle?

Shuttle if staying at one resort. Rent if you want to visit multiple areas or need a car at your destination. Consider I-70 traffic stress and winter driving conditions when deciding.

How long is the drive to ski resorts?

Without traffic: Breckenridge 1.5 hours, Vail 2 hours, Aspen 4 hours. Add 30-90 minutes on winter weekends and holidays. Friday afternoons and Sunday returns are worst.

Can I bring skis on the shuttle?

Yes. Most shuttles include ski and snowboard equipment. Large bags or bikes may need advance arrangement. Confirm with your specific carrier when booking.