How do I get from Denver Airport to Winter Park? The Amtrak Winter Park Express ($29-59, weekends only, ski season) is the best deal in Colorado ski transportation. Other options: shared shuttle ($55-75/person), private car ($280-400), or rental car via US-40 (avoiding I-70 entirely). Distance: 67 miles. Drive time: 1.5-2 hours.
Route Overview
Distance: 67 miles
Drive time: 1.5-2 hours
Route: US-40 through Berthoud Pass (avoids I-70)
Elevation: 5,400 feet (DIA) to 9,000 feet (Winter Park), crossing 11,315 feet at Berthoud Pass
Winter Park is unique among Colorado ski resorts: you can reach it via US-40 without touching I-70, avoiding the notorious ski traffic. The route over Berthoud Pass is scenic but demanding in winter. The train option makes Winter Park exceptionally accessible.
Transportation Options
Winter Park Express (Train)
Cost: $29-59 one-way
Time: 2 hours from Denver Union Station
Season: Weekends and select holidays, January-March
Best for: Anyone who can make the schedule work
The Amtrak Winter Park Express is the best value in Colorado ski transportation. From Union Station (take A-Line from DIA, $10.50), the train travels through spectacular scenery including the Moffat Tunnel. Arrives directly at the ski area base. Book early—it sells out.
Shared Shuttle
Cost: $55-75 per person one-way
Time: 2-2.5 hours from DIA
Best for: Those traveling on non-train days
Home James Transportation and other operators run shuttles from DIA. Door-to-door service to Winter Park lodging.
Rental Car
Cost: $50-90/day + gas (~$25)
Time: 1.5-2 hours
Best for: Flexibility, avoiding I-70 traffic
The US-40 route via Berthoud Pass avoids I-70 entirely—a major advantage on busy ski weekends. However, Berthoud Pass is steep and can be treacherous in storms. AWD essential in winter. Free parking at Winter Park Resort.
Private Car/SUV
Cost: $280-400 one-way (vehicle)
Time: 1.5-2 hours direct
Best for: Groups of 3+, families with gear
Direct service to your accommodation. Makes sense for larger groups splitting the cost.
Winter Park Express Details
The train experience is part of the appeal:
- Departs Denver Union Station Saturday and Sunday mornings (plus holiday Fridays)
- Scenic route through Rocky Mountain canyons and the Moffat Tunnel
- Ski/snowboard storage on board
- Arrives at Winter Park Resort base area
- Return train departs late afternoon
- Book at Amtrak.com—sells out weeks in advance
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Winter Park Express worth it?
Absolutely. At $29-59 one-way, it's the best transportation deal to any Colorado ski resort. Plus you avoid driving Berthoud Pass. Book early.
Can I avoid I-70 driving to Winter Park?
Yes. US-40 over Berthoud Pass goes directly to Winter Park without touching I-70. It's steep and challenging in winter but avoids ski traffic entirely.