How to get from
Denver Airport (DEN) to Steamboat Springs
Adults
Age 13+Children
Age 0-12Route details
Distance:
292 km / 181 miles
Driving Time:
3hrs 30mins
*Subject to weather and traffic conditions.
Shared Shuttles may take longer
People often ask
The drive from Denver International Airport (DEN) to Steamboat Springs typically takes 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic along I-70 and US-40. Travel times can run longer on weekends, during storms, or in peak ski season.
If you're travelling in winter, it’s smart to build extra time into your schedule. Weather and mountain pass conditions can change quickly in Colorado, especially along Rabbit Ears Pass.
Yes. You can book a private shuttle through Ridebooker to Steamboat Springs from Denver International Airport. These operate year-round and offer door-to-door services working to your schedule.
Shuttles provide a convenient option if you don't want to rent a car or deal with mountain driving, especially during winter.
Private transfers in an SUV or van offer a faster, door-to-door experience and are ideal for families, ski groups, or travellers with lots of luggage. Driving yourself is possible, but you’ll need to be confident handling winter mountain roads.
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. The distance is long—over three hours—and most rideshare drivers will decline the trip. If someone accepts, the fare will be significantly higher than a shuttle or private transfer.
Rideshares also don’t offer guaranteed return service from Steamboat Springs, making them impractical for most travellers.
From September through May, Colorado’s traction laws often require either winter tires, 3PMSF all-weather tires, or chains when snow is falling. This applies on both I-70 and Rabbit Ears Pass.
Even when not legally required, winter tires are strongly recommended. Conditions can switch from dry pavement to snow-packed mountain passes within minutes.
It can be. The route includes high-elevation mountain highways and Rabbit Ears Pass, which is known for blowing snow, limited visibility, and icy sections. For confident winter drivers, it’s manageable—but not ideal for visitors unfamiliar with Colorado roads.
If you prefer to avoid winter driving, shuttles and private transfers offer a much more stress-free experience.
Yes. Private SUVs, sprinter vans, and premium transfer options run daily between DEN and Steamboat Springs. These services provide door-to-door pickup, flexible departure times, and extra space for ski equipment.
Private transfers are a popular choice for families, larger groups, or travellers arriving on late-night or early-morning flights when regular shuttles may not run.
Most travellers fly into Denver International Airport (DEN) because it offers the widest range of airlines and flight options. However, the closest airport to the resort is Yampa Valley Airport (HDN), located only 25–30 minutes from Steamboat.
HDN has seasonal winter flights from major hubs like Denver, Seattle, Dallas, Chicago, and Los Angeles, making it a convenient alternative when available.
It is highly recommended, especially in ski season. Shuttles and private vehicles often sell out on weekends, holidays, and powder days. Booking ahead ensures you secure a seat and get the pickup time you want.
Last-minute bookings are sometimes available, but not guaranteed. Advance reservations are strongly recommended if you're travelling with skis or in a group.
No, you don’t need a car to enjoy Steamboat Springs. The town is compact, and most hotels, restaurants, and the ski resort are connected by free local buses that run frequently throughout the day and evening.
If you’re staying near the mountain base or in the downtown core, you’ll be able to get around easily without driving. Many visitors prefer going car-free in winter to avoid snow, parking, and mountain-road conditions.
About travelling from Denver International Airport (DEN) to Steamboat Springs, CO
Affectionately known as “Ski Town, USA”, Steamboat Springs blends old-west character with Champagne Power. Light, dry snow falls consistently throughout the winter over 3,000 acres of terrain offering everything from rolling groomers, long fall-lines blues and some of the best tree skiing in Colorado . Steamboat Springs is home to more Olympians than anywhere else in the USA and its location as the most northern ski town in Colorado means the resort is often hit by snow storms that don’t make it to the Front Range. Steamboat is both one of the most beginner friendly resorts in Colorado owing to its high altitude green terrain as well as offering plenty of steeper, off-piste glades and back bowls for more advanced skiers.
Beyond the slopes, Steamboat Springs holds onto its authentic cowboy charm. In town, you’ll find historic hot springs, local craft breweries, and events like the Winter Carnival, where locals still ski down Main Street by torchlight. Steamboat Square is the hub for après and dining at the base — Timber & Torch has a strong patio scene, while Gondola Pub & Grill and Slopeside Grill are long-standing favourites. In town (a short ride away), Main Street has a warm, lived-in feel with local breweries, bakeries, gear shops, and restaurants offering everything from relaxed pub fare to elevated Rocky Mountain dining. You won’t find yourself short of evening entertainment with over 100 bars and restaurants to choose from and thanks to its compact layout and a free public transit system, you do not need a car to visit.
Summer brings fly fishing and rafting on the Yampa River, mountain biking on Emerald Mountain, golfing at the Rollingston Ranch course and taking in the surrounding views on foot or horseback. The Yampa River Core Trail is a particularly popular hike that winds through the town and surrounding valleys and ridgelines, while those looking for a more relaxing day can simply float down the river on a tube or visit one of the many hot springs that inspired the town's name. Strawberry Park Hot Springs is the scenic, secluded and rustic option (both summer and winter), while the Old Town Hot Springs is more family-friendly and convenient. The town offers a free Summer Concert Series as well as hosting a full lineup of festivals such as the Hot Air Balloon Rodeo and Art in the Park
While the closest airport to Steamboat Springs is Yampa Valley Airport (HDN), many travelers fly into Denver International Airport (DEN) due to its larger size and extensive transport links. From here, you can book your transfer through Ridebooker. Whether by shared shuttle or private vehicle, you’ll enjoy a comfortable ride through Colorado’s wide-open ranch country and mountain passes — a journey that perfectly sets the stage for this blend of adventure, history, and relaxed Western hospitality.