Shuttles, Private Cars & Transportation Options
What you need to know
Distance: 100 miles via I-70 West
Drive Time: 2-2.5 hours (3+ hours with traffic)
Route: I-70 through Idaho Springs, Georgetown, Eisenhower Tunnel, Silverthorne, then west to Vail
| Option | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Shared Shuttle | $75-95/person | Solo travelers, couples |
| Private SUV (up to 6) | $350-450 | Groups, families |
| Luxury Sedan | $400-500 | Business travelers |
| Limo/Luxury SUV | $550-800 | Special occasions |
| Uber/Lyft | $200-300+ | Not recommended |
| Rental Car | $80-150/day + gas | Multi-day flexibility |
Getting from DIA to Vail
The most popular option for solo travelers and couples. Multiple companies run scheduled departures from DIA to Vail Village and Lionshead.
Major operators:
What to expect:
Best value for groups of 3-6 people. Direct service to your exact lodging address with no stops.
Cost breakdown for groups:
Premium vehicles with professional chauffeurs. Black car sedans, luxury SUVs, or stretch limousines available.
Not recommended for Vail. While available at DIA, rideshare to Vail is expensive and unreliable.
Good if you want flexibility to explore multiple areas or need a car in Vail.
Consider flying directly to Eagle County Airport, just 35 miles from Vail (30-minute drive).
What to expect on the drive
The drive from DIA to Vail follows I-70 west through some of Colorado's most scenic mountain terrain. Here's what you'll experience:
Climb from the plains into the foothills. Traffic usually flows well on this section. You'll pass Golden and the entrance to the mountains.
Steeper climb through Georgetown. The tunnel crosses the Continental Divide at 11,158 feet—the highest point on the Interstate system.
Descend through Silverthorne and Frisco, then climb again to Vail Pass (10,662 feet) before dropping into the Vail Valley.
I-70 is well-maintained but mountain weather changes quickly. Check CDOT conditions before traveling. The Eisenhower Tunnel often has different weather on each side.
DIA to Vail transportation
Shared shuttles cost $75-95 per person one-way. Private SUVs for groups run $350-450 total. Book in advance during ski season for best availability.
2-2.5 hours without traffic. Friday afternoons and Sunday returns can take 3-4 hours during ski season. Shuttles may add 20-30 minutes for multiple stops.
Shuttle is usually better. Vail has excellent free bus service, parking is expensive ($30-50/day), and I-70 traffic is stressful. Rent only if you plan to visit multiple resorts.
Technically yes, but not recommended. Expect $200-300+ and drivers may cancel. Shuttles and private cars are more reliable and often cheaper.
At least 1 week during ski season, 2-3 weeks for holiday periods (Christmas, Presidents Day). Summer is more flexible but still book a few days ahead.
Yes, ski and snowboard equipment is included on shared shuttles. Large items like bike cases may need advance arrangement and additional fees.