Getting Around Colorado 2025
Navigate Colorado like a local with our transportation guide.
Colorado is a Rocky Mountain state renowned for world-class skiing, stunning national parks, and vibrant outdoor culture. From the soaring peaks of the Rockies to the red rock canyons of the southwest, Colorado offers some of America's most dramatic landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Transportation Overview
Quick comparison of transport options in Colorado.
Public Transit
RTD is good in Denver metro but essentially non-existent in mountain towns. Bustang helps connect Front Range cities.
Taxis
Uber and Lyft widely available in Denver, Colorado Springs, Boulder, and major ski towns
Car Rental
Best way to explore Colorado's diverse and spread-out landscapes - AWD/4WD recommended
Walking
Denver's LoDo, Boulder's Pearl Street, and Aspen/Telluride downtowns are highly walkable
Getting There
How to arrive in Colorado.
✈️ By Air
Main Airport
Colorado is served by international and domestic flights. Check airline websites for current routes and schedules.
Airport Transfer Options
Complete Transportation Guide
Route guides, fare information, and transport app recommendations.
Local Transportation
Getting around within Colorado.
🚌 Buses
RTD buses cover Denver metro extensively, $3 per ride with multi-trip passes available
🛺 Local Alternatives
RTD Light Rail, free 16th Street Mall shuttle bus, bike-sharing (Denver B-Cycle from $4/30 min), electric scooters
Intercity Travel
Getting between cities and regions.
Long-Distance Buses
Bustang from $10 (Front Range), Greyhound from $20 (national routes)
Shared Taxis/Minivans
Rideshares and airport shuttles to ski resorts from Denver
Domestic Flights
Domestic connections from DEN to mountain airports (ASE, EGE) for ski resort access
Private Car/Driver
Private car hire from $75/day or per-trip ski transfer services
Driving in Colorado
Information for self-driving travelers.
License Required
International Driving Permit typically required along with your home license.
Road Conditions
Main roads generally passable. Conditions vary significantly in rural areas.
Fuel
Gas stations available in cities. Fill up before long journeys.
Parking
Street parking common. Secure parking at hotels recommended overnight.
Driving Considerations
- Research local driving laws and road conditions before deciding to drive
- Consider hiring a driver instead - often affordable and less stressful
- Ensure comprehensive insurance if renting a vehicle
- Avoid driving at night in unfamiliar areas
- Keep copies of all documents (license, insurance, rental agreement)
Transportation Tips
Essential advice for getting around.
Book ski resort parking in advance for weekends and holidays
I-70 westbound is extremely congested Friday afternoon and Saturday morning during ski season - leave Denver by 7AM or after 10AM
The RTD A-Line is the most cost-effective way from DEN airport to downtown Denver at $10.50
Many ski resorts offer free parking in outlying lots with free shuttle service to the resort
Rent AWD or 4WD vehicle for any mountain travel in winter - Colorado Traction Law is enforced
Bustang bus from Denver to Colorado Springs costs $12-15 versus $45-65 by taxi
RFTA (Roaring Fork Transit Authority) provides free bus service between Aspen and Glenwood Springs
Useful Apps
Uber/Lyft
Rideshare widely available in Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs, and major ski towns
Google Maps
Best for navigation and public transit directions - includes RTD schedules
RTD MyRide
Official Denver public transit app for schedules, trip planning, and mobile ticketing
CoTrip
Colorado Department of Transportation app for road conditions, closures, and webcams on mountain passes
Waze
Community-based GPS navigation - excellent for avoiding I-70 ski traffic congestion
Navigate Colorado Like a Local
Get our complete transport guide with route planners, fare guides, and essential travel phrases.
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