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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

Colorado, USA

Air Travel

Major Airports Serving the Corridor

Denver International Airport (DEN) is the main gateway. Other regional airports provide useful access, especially to mountain areas.

Airports

  • Denver International Airport (DEN): Main international/domestic gateway.
  • Colorado Springs Airport (COS): Serves the southern Front Range.
  • Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE): Near Vail and Beaver Creek (seasonal).

Airlines & Seasonal Fluctuations

Many airlines serve DEN. Flight prices and availability vary significantly by season.

Details

  • Major Domestic Carriers: United (hub), Southwest (hub), Delta, American, Alaska, Frontier, Spirit.
  • International Carriers to DEN: Lufthansa, British Airways, Air Canada, Icelandair, Copa, Aeromexico.
  • Peak Seasons (Summer & Winter): Higher demand and prices, especially for mountain airports (EGE, ASE). Book in advance.

DEN Transfer: RTD A-Line

Direct service from DEN to Denver Union Station (downtown) in ~37 minutes. Fare $10.50. Check the RTD website.

DEN Transfer: Taxis/Ride-Shares

Designated pick-up areas are outside baggage claim. Taxis often have flat rates to downtown. Uber/Lyft available.

DEN Transfer: Shuttles

Shared-ride and private shuttles operate to downtown Denver, Boulder, and various mountain resorts (e.g., Summit Express, Epic Mountain Express).

Airport Facilities & Services DEN

Terminals & Amenities

  • Jeppesen Terminal: Main terminal for check-in, security, baggage.
  • Three concourses (A, B, C) connected by underground train.
  • Extensive dining & shopping in all concourses.
  • Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.

Additional Services

  • Lounges: Major airline lounges (United, American, Delta), Centurion Lounge.
  • Rental Car Center: Off-site, accessible by frequent shuttle.
  • The Westin Denver International Airport: Directly connected to the terminal.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Amtrak's California Zephyr passes through the corridor (Denver, Fraser/Winter Park, Glenwood Springs). The Winter Park Express is a seasonal weekend ski train from Denver directly to Winter Park resort.

Long-Distance Buses

Greyhound and FlixBus connect Denver to cities nationwide. Bustang (CDOT service) connects Denver to Fort Collins, Colorado Springs, and Glenwood Springs. Private shuttles like Summit Express and Epic Mountain Express serve mountain towns.

Self-Driving Considerations

Valid driver's license and proof of insurance needed. An International Driving Permit is recommended for foreign licenses. Consider 4WD/AWD for winter. Check COTrip.org for road conditions and chain laws.

Road Conditions & Safety Concerns

Driving Safety

Roads are generally excellent, but mountain roads can be winding and steep. Watch for wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk. Speed limits are strictly enforced.

Points

  • Wildlife: Watch for deer, elk, and moose.
  • Speed Limits: Strictly enforced.
  • Elevation: Altitude may affect vehicle performance and driving focus.

I-70 & Winter Driving

I-70, the main artery through the mountains, experiences significant traffic congestion, especially on weekends.

Considerations

  • I-70 Congestion: Heavy traffic on weekend afternoons (westbound Fri, eastbound Sun).
  • Winter Driving: Chain laws often in effect. 4WD/AWD vehicles with M+S tires highly recommended, or carry Tire chains.
  • Mountain Passes: Some high passes (e.g., Trail Ridge Road) close completely in winter. Check seasonal closures.

Departure Information DEN

Timing Recommendations

  • Domestic Flights: Arrive at least 2 hours before departure.
  • International Flights: Arrive at least 3 hours before departure.
  • Allow extra time for rental car returns, especially at DEN (shuttle to terminal).

Airport/Station Facilities

Facilities at DEN, Union Station, and bus stations for departing travelers.

Locations & Services

  • DEN: Restaurants, shops, lounges, free Wi-Fi throughout terminals.
  • Denver Union Station (Amtrak/Bustang): Restaurants, bars, shops, waiting areas.
  • Bus Stations: Typically more basic facilities. Bring your own snacks and entertainment.

Important Departure Notes

  • Exit Fees: No specific exit fees or taxes by Colorado state. Federal taxes are included in airline tickets.
  • Security: TSA PreCheck or CLEAR enrollment can significantly speed up security lines.
  • Check-in: Online check-in is recommended to save time at the airport.
  • Peak Season Delays: During peak ski season weekends, allow significantly more time for travel to DEN from mountain areas due to heavy I-70 traffic. Traffic can add hours to your drive.

Local Transportation

Public Transit Overview

Public transportation offers an economical and often convenient way to explore the region, specifically in urban areas and mountain resorts.

Systems

  • Denver Metro Area (RTD): Light rail, local buses, regional buses, commuter rail.
  • A-Line: Connects Denver International Airport directly to downtown Denver.
  • Mountain Towns: Many ski towns offer free local bus services (Breckenridge, Vail, Aspen).

Ticketing & Accessibility

RTD offers various fare options. All RTD vehicles are wheelchair accessible.

Details

  • RTD Fares: Single ride ($3-$10.50), Day Pass ($10.50).
  • Mobile Ticketing: Use the RTD Mobile Tickets app.
  • Accessibility: All RTD buses and light rail vehicles are wheelchair accessible.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Uber and Lyft are widely available in cities and larger mountain towns. Taxis operate in Denver and other cities. Confirm driver and vehicle details for ride-shares.

Car Rental Options

Major car rental companies operate at DEN and COS. Book in advance, especially for 4WD/AWD vehicles in winter. A valid driver's license and credit card are needed.

Walking & Cycling

Downtown Denver, Boulder's Pearl Street Mall, and mountain towns are very walkable. Denver and Boulder have extensive bike lanes. Always wear a helmet when cycling.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Driving Laws
  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Cell phone use while driving is restricted (hands-free for adults only).
Road Conditions & Parking
  • Mountain roads can be steep, winding, and subject to rapid weather changes.
  • Parking can be challenging and expensive in popular mountain towns and downtown Denver.

Specialized Transportation:

Tour buses and hop-on-hop-off services are available in Denver for sightseeing. Gondolas and chairlifts operate at ski resorts in summer for scenic rides and hiking access. The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway offers a scenic journey to Pikes Peak summit.

The RTD system in Denver is fully accessible, complying with ADA standards. Contact specific venues or tour operators for their accessibility features.