Route details
Distance:
140 km / 87 miles
Driving Time:
1hr 45mins
*Subject to weather and traffic conditions.
Shared Shuttles may take longer
Return Route:
People often ask
You don’t need a car for a visit to Breckenridge. The town is extremely walkable, and the free Breck Free Ride bus system connects lodging, ski lifts, shops, restaurants, and neighbourhoods throughout the area. Most visitors skip rental cars altogether.
Parking in Breckenridge can also be limited and expensive, particularly near the slopes and during ski season. Letting shuttles or local transit handle the transportation often makes the trip easier and more relaxing.
The drive from Denver to Breckenridge usually takes 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes in good conditions. The route follows I-70 west through the foothills and over the mountains, then Highway 9 south into Breckenridge.
Traffic, weather, and events can extend the travel time — especially weekend ski traffic near the Eisenhower Tunnel — so it’s smart to allow extra buffer during busy periods.
The easiest option is booking a shared shuttle or private transfer. These services run directly from Denver or Denver International Airport to Breckenridge, offer door-to-door service, and handle the mountain driving for you.
Public transit exists but isn’t ideal for most travellers, as it involves multiple transfers and much longer travel times. For convenience and reliability, professional transportation is the preferred choice.
You can request an Uber or Lyft, but availability for long-distance mountain trips can be unreliable. Drivers may not accept the fare, and pricing can surge significantly during peak ski season or winter storms.
Travellers who want guaranteed pick-up and predictable pricing usually choose a pre-booked shuttle or private transfer instead of relying on rideshare apps.
Yes. From October through May, Colorado’s Traction Law may require winter-rated tires, all-wheel drive, or chains on the I-70 mountain corridor. Even when the law isn’t active, winter tires or AWD make a major difference on snowy or icy roads.
Driving without proper tires can lead to unsafe conditions, long delays, and even fines if traction requirements are in effect.
It can be safe if you’re comfortable with winter mountain driving. The route includes steep grades, high elevations, and rapidly changing weather — all of which can be challenging for visitors not used to snow and ice.
If you’d rather avoid the stress of winter roads, booking a shuttle or private transfer with professional drivers is the safer, more relaxed option.
Yes. Private transfers run year-round between Denver and Breckenridge. These offer the most flexibility, with direct pick-up from downtown hotels, vacation rentals, or Denver International Airport.
Private vehicles are ideal for families, groups, and travellers with ski gear who want a smoother, personalised ride without waiting on shuttle schedules.
About travelling from Denver, CO to Breckenridge, CO
Breckenridge has evolved from a mining town into one of Colorado’s top mountain destinations. The resort spans five peaks with over 2,900 acres of terrain, giving skiers and snowboarders plenty of variety. An extensive beginner-friendly area is housed on Peak 9, Peak 7 offers intermediate friendly blue cruisers, whilst Peak 10 offers steeper terrain for advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders. The Imperial bowl offers some of the best off-piste powder skiing Colorado has to offer.
The town is compact and walkable, with Main Street offering colourful historic buildings full of coffee shops, restaurants, and outdoor stores. TBar is where to go for a lively, apres party, Breckenridge Brewery and Breckenridge Distillery serve up casual meals and local drinks, Blue River Bistro and Rootstalk have you covered for fine dining whilst Fatty’s Pizzeria is a family favourite. For breakfast and coffee be sure to check out Unravel and Daylight Donuts. Everyone from families with children to groups of friends are well catered for.
In the summer months, Breckenridge transforms into a playground for hiking, sightseeing, and mountain biking. Epic Discovery on Peak 8 lends access to hiking trails via a chairlift, while the Breckenridge Bike Park attracts riders from across North America. Golf, farmers markets, and outdoor music provide entertainment for more relaxed summer days.
If you need to travel from Downtown Denver you can book your transfer with Ridebooker. Choose from shared shuttles or a private taxi or van for door-to-door service. The drive takes roughly one and a half to two hours, weaving through scenic foothills and mountain passes, letting you start your mountain adventure without the stress of navigating mountain roads, sourcing a rental car or worrying about parking in town.