Getting To Vail
Getting to and from Vail, Colorado is easier than you may think. Interstate I-70 runs right through the Vail Valley from Denver, making access to the area simple and easy. Whether you're flying into Denver Airport, or taking a long road trip from elsewhere, this guide will help you get to Vail quickly and safely.
Eagle County Regional Airport is the most convenient airport for visitors heading directly to Vail.
Distance to Vail: Approximately 35 miles
Drive Time: About 40–45 minutes
The airport is served by:
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
- Seasonal service from Frontier on select routes
Seasonal and year-round direct flights typically operate from major hubs including:
- Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW)
- Chicago (ORD)
- Denver (DEN)
- Houston (IAH)
- Los Angeles (LAX)
- Miami (MIA)
- Minneapolis (MSP)
- New York (JFK and Newark)
- Atlanta (ATL)
- Philadelphia (PHL)
- Seattle (SEA)
- Phoenix (PHX)
- San Francisco (SFO)
- San Diego (SAN)
Routes vary by season, with the largest schedule available during ski season.
- Short transfer to Vail
- Smaller airport with shorter security lines
- Avoids driving through mountain weather and I-70 traffic
- Excellent option for ski travelers and families
Denver International Airport is Colorado's largest airport and often offers the most flight options and lowest fares.
Distance to Vail: Approximately 120 miles
Drive Time: Around 2 hours in ideal conditions, though winter weather and ski traffic can add significant time.
Denver is a major hub for:
Additional carriers include:
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- Alaska Airlines
- Numerous international airlines
DEN offers nonstop service to more than 200 destinations across North America, Europe, Latin America, and Asia.
- Usually the cheapest flights
- Extensive domestic and international connections
- Wide selection of rental cars and transportation services
For travelers renting a car at Denver International Airport, the route is straightforward.
- Exit Denver International Airport and follow signs to I-70 West.
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Continue west on Interstate 70 through:
- Golden
- Idaho Springs
- Georgetown
- Eisenhower Tunnel
- Silverthorne
- Frisco
- Copper Mountain
- Continue on I-70 West until Exit 176 (Vail).
Total distance is approximately 120 miles.
- Colorado law may require snow tires or traction devices during storms.
- Weekend ski traffic can significantly increase travel times.
- Check road conditions before departure via the Colorado Department of Transportation.
If you don't want to rent a car, shuttle services operate regularly between Denver Airport, Eagle Airport, and Vail.
Popular operators include:
These services provide door-to-door transportation to hotels, vacation rentals, and private residences. Community recommendations frequently cite shuttle services as one of the easiest ways to travel between Denver and Vail.
Colorado's statewide bus system, Bustang, connects Denver and Vail.
Typical Route:
- Take the A-Line train from Denver International Airport to Union Station in downtown Denver.
- Transfer to the Bustang West Line.
- Ride directly to the Vail Transportation Center.
Travelers often report this as the most affordable transportation option from Denver to Vail.
Pegasus Shuttle Service operates smaller vans on a similar route between Denver and mountain communities.
Benefits include:
- Lower fares than private shuttles
- Wi-Fi and charging ports
- Convenient access from Vail Transportation Center
Note that luggage capacity is more limited than on standard buses.
In review, traveling to Vail is much easier than you may think. Whether you are flying or driving, or even taking a shuttle or bus, there are a multitude of transportation options available. We have a transportation page on our website that may help you choose, depending on your budget.
Another importation consideration when vacationing in the Vail Valley is your accommodations. Fortunately, we have a wide selection of vacation rentals available in Vail, Beaver Creek, and the surrounding area! Check out the full list here and book today.
