How do I get from Denver Airport to Steamboat Springs? Shared shuttle ($85-110/person, 3.5-4 hrs), private car ($450-650), or rental car (~$70/day + gas). Distance: 160 miles via I-70 and US-40 over Rabbit Ears Pass. The route avoids most I-70 ski traffic by heading north. Steamboat also has a regional airport (HDN) with direct flights from some cities.
Route Overview
Distance: 160 miles
Drive time: 3-3.5 hours (good conditions)
Route: I-70 West to Silverthorne, then US-9 to Kremmling, then US-40 over Rabbit Ears Pass
Elevation: 5,400 feet (DIA) to 6,700 feet (Steamboat), crossing 9,426 feet at Rabbit Ears Pass
The route to Steamboat diverges from the I-70 corridor at Silverthorne, which means you avoid much of the ski resort traffic that plagues Vail and Breckenridge travelers. However, US-40 over Rabbit Ears Pass can be challenging in winter weather.
Transportation Options
Fly to Steamboat (HDN)
Cost: Varies by origin
Time: Flight + 30 min ground
Best for: Those with direct flight options
Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN) is 22 miles from Steamboat. Direct flights from select cities during ski season. Check availability from your origin—may be worth the premium over the long drive.
Shared Shuttle
Cost: $85-110 per person one-way
Time: 3.5-4 hours
Best for: Solo travelers, couples
Go Alpine and Storm Mountain Express offer scheduled shuttles from DIA. Service to Steamboat lodging. Book 1-2 weeks ahead during peak season.
Private Car/SUV
Cost: $450-650 one-way (vehicle)
Time: 3-3.5 hours direct
Best for: Groups of 3+, families
Door-to-door service without stops. Worth considering for groups where per-person cost drops significantly.
Rental Car
Cost: $70-120/day + gas (~$40)
Time: 3-3.5 hours
Best for: Those wanting flexibility, multi-stop trips
Steamboat has free in-town bus service (Steamboat Springs Transit), so you won't need the car once there. AWD recommended for Rabbit Ears Pass in winter.
Winter Driving
Rabbit Ears Pass can be treacherous in winter storms. The exposed summit area is prone to high winds and blowing snow. Check COTrip.org for conditions. The shuttle drivers are experienced with this route—consider letting them handle winter driving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there less traffic to Steamboat than Vail?
Generally yes. The route leaves I-70 at Silverthorne, avoiding the worst ski traffic. US-40 is less congested than the I-70 corridor to Vail and Beaver Creek.
Does Steamboat have its own airport?
Yes. Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN) is 22 miles from town with direct flights from several cities during ski season.