How do I get from Denver Airport to Black Hawk? Casino shuttles from downtown Denver ($20-30 round trip, requires getting to Denver first), rideshare from DIA ($80-120), or rental car. Distance: 50 miles via I-70 and Highway 119. Smartest play: take the A-Line to Denver, then casino shuttle.
Route Overview
Distance: 50 miles
Drive time: 55-70 minutes
Route: I-70 West to Highway 119, through Clear Creek Canyon
Elevation: 5,400 feet (DIA) to 8,500 feet (Black Hawk)
Black Hawk is Colorado's largest casino town, nestled in a mountain canyon west of Denver. The winding Highway 119 through Clear Creek Canyon is scenic but slow. Most casino visitors use the free or cheap shuttle services from downtown Denver rather than driving.
Transportation Options
Best Option: A-Line + Casino Shuttle
Cost: $10.50 (A-Line) + $0-30 (casino shuttle)
Time: 2-2.5 hours total
Best for: Most casino visitors
Take the A-Line train from DIA to Union Station ($10.50, 37 min). From there, several casinos offer free or low-cost shuttle service to Black Hawk. Ameristar, Monarch, and others run regular shuttles. This approach avoids mountain driving and parking hassles.
Rideshare Direct from DIA
Cost: $80-120 one-way
Time: 55-70 minutes
Best for: Groups splitting costs, those in a hurry
Uber/Lyft will take you directly to Black Hawk from DIA. Expensive for one person but splits well for 3-4 people. Driver availability for the return trip from Black Hawk can be limited late at night.
Rental Car
Cost: $50-80/day + gas (~$15)
Time: 55-70 minutes
Best for: Those combining with other activities
Highway 119 through Clear Creek Canyon has many curves and can be icy in winter. Free parking available at all casinos. Consider whether you want to drive after gambling (and potentially drinking).
Casino Shuttles from Denver
Major casinos offer shuttle service from various Denver pickup points:
- Ameristar: Free shuttle from Denver Tech Center and other locations
- Monarch: Shuttle service from multiple Denver areas
- Various operators: Ace Express, Black Hawk Shuttle offer $20-30 round trips
Shuttles typically run every few hours with more frequent service on weekends. Check individual casino websites for schedules and pickup locations.
Tips
- Don't drink and drive: Casino shuttles mean you don't have to worry about driving after gambling
- Late night returns: Rideshare availability from Black Hawk drops after midnight—plan ahead
- Winter driving: Highway 119 can be treacherous in snow; shuttles are safer
- Central City: Adjacent to Black Hawk with additional casinos; walkable between towns
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there free shuttles to Black Hawk?
Some casinos offer free shuttle service from select Denver locations. Check Ameristar and Monarch websites for current schedules and pickup points.
Can I get an Uber back from Black Hawk late at night?
Availability is limited after midnight. Consider the casino shuttle return schedule when planning, or book a return ride in advance.