How do I get from Denver Airport to Breckenridge? Shared shuttle ($65-85/person, 2-2.5 hrs), private car ($300-450), rental car ($50-90/day + gas), Bustang bus (~$22 with transfers, 3+ hrs), or rideshare ($150-250). Distance: 97 miles via I-70. Breckenridge is the closest major ski resort to Denver and has free in-town bus service.
Route Overview
Distance: 97 miles
Drive time: 1.5-2.5 hours (good conditions)
Route: I-70 West to Exit 203 (Frisco), then Highway 9 South
Elevation change: 5,400 feet (DIA) to 9,600 feet (Breckenridge)
Breckenridge is the closest major ski destination to Denver Airport, making it popular with visitors. The route follows I-70 through the Eisenhower Tunnel before exiting at Frisco. Weekend traffic on I-70 can significantly extend drive times—plan accordingly.
Transportation Options
Shared Shuttle
Cost: $65-85 per person one-way
Time: 2-2.5 hours
Best for: Solo travelers, couples, those without a car need
Epic Mountain Express and Peak 1 Express run scheduled shuttles. Door-to-door service to Breckenridge lodging. Book 1-2 weeks ahead during peak season.
Private Car/SUV
Cost: $300-450 one-way (vehicle, not per person)
Time: 1.5-2 hours direct
Best for: Groups of 3+, families, those wanting direct service
Private transfers go directly to your accommodation without stops. Price includes ski/snowboard gear transport. Great value for groups splitting the cost.
Rental Car
Cost: $50-90/day + gas (~$25)
Time: 1.5-2.5 hours
Best for: Those exploring multiple resorts, flexible schedules
Free parking is available in Breckenridge (including free covered garage). The free Breck Free Ride bus system means you won't need the car once you arrive. AWD recommended in winter.
Bustang Bus
Cost: ~$22 total (A-Line + Bustang + Summit Stage)
Time: 3+ hours
Best for: Budget travelers with flexibility
Take the A-Line train from DIA to Union Station ($10.50), then Bustang to Frisco ($12), then free Summit Stage to Breckenridge. Cheapest option but requires transfers and time.
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Cost: $150-250 one-way
Time: 1.5-2.5 hours
Best for: Spontaneous travel, 2-3 people splitting cost
Available from DIA but can be unreliable for mountain trips. Drivers may cancel. Not recommended in poor weather.
Tips
- Free parking in Breck: Unlike Vail, Breckenridge has free parking including a covered garage, making rental cars more practical
- Free bus system: Once in Breckenridge, the Breck Free Ride handles all transportation
- Weekend traffic: I-70 eastbound Sunday afternoons is notorious—leave early or wait until evening
- Book ahead: Shuttle seats sell out during peak ski season and holidays
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Breckenridge closer than Vail to Denver?
Yes. Breckenridge is 97 miles from DIA; Vail is 100 miles. Breckenridge is typically 15-20 minutes closer in drive time.
Do I need a car in Breckenridge?
No. The free Breck Free Ride bus system covers the entire town and connects to the ski resort. A car is nice for flexibility but not necessary.