Best Ways to Get from Denver Airport to Beaver Creek
Beaver Creek is a popular destination for a Colorado mountain getaway—but getting there from Denver International Airport (DEN) can be a challenge. The key factor? Distance. So how far is Beaver Creek from Denver Airport? The answer: approximately 132 miles, with a typical drive time of 2 hours and 28 minutes in ideal conditions. But anyone who’s braved I‑70 knows that “ideal” is rarely the case.
If you’re planning a trip to Beaver Creek, transportation should be on your radar long before you land in Denver. Below, we break down your options and offer tips to help you make the best choice for your mountain transfer.
Distance & Drive Time: DEN → Beaver Creek
Beaver Creek is located 132 miles west of Denver International Airport, nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. The route climbs nearly 2,800 feet in elevation, with much of the journey following the infamous I‑70 mountain corridor.
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Estimated Drive Time: 2h28m
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Route: I‑70 West to US-6 to Avon Rd
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Elevation Gain: ~2,800 feet
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Challenging Segment: Vail Pass – steep, winding, and weather-sensitive
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Conditions Matter: Snow, rain, or heavy traffic can easily add hours
For live I‑70 road condition updates, check I‑70 traffic heading to the mountains.
1. Shuttle Services to Beaver Creek
Shuttle services are the most reliable, stress-free way to travel from Denver Airport to Beaver Creek. With professional drivers who are trained to handle mountain conditions, these services eliminate the worry of navigation, road closures, and parking.
Shared Shuttles
Shared shuttles like Peak 1 Express offer affordable rides in luxury vans with free Wi-Fi, complimentary beverages, and plenty of space for ski gear or luggage.
Benefits:
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Pre-booked, guaranteed pickup times
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Experienced, licensed drivers
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Cost-effective (especially when compared to private transport)
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No need to worry about weather, traffic, or parking
Riding with Peak 1 Express
Expect a sleek, black Mercedes Sprinter van waiting at the airport. With professional service, comfortable seating, and high-roof interiors, you’ll ride in style up to the mountains. Plus, Peak 1 Express offers various pickup points and great transportation deals year-round.
2. Private Cars & Rideshare
Uber & Lyft: Risky for Long-Distance
While rideshare apps are great for city trips, they are not ideal for traveling 132 miles to Beaver Creek.
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High Cost: Fare depends on distance and time. If you get stuck in traffic, the price skyrockets
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Driver Quality: Drivers often lack mountain driving experience
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Availability: During peak times or poor weather, rideshare availability drops significantly
Private Car Services
If budget is less of a concern, consider a private car service—but make sure it’s a company specializing in mountain transportation. They’re typically more expensive than shuttles, but offer personalized service and flexibility.
3. Car Rental & Self-Drive
Renting a car gives you freedom and flexibility, but comes with serious caveats in mountain towns like Beaver Creek.
Types of Rental Cars
You may dream of a big SUV, but unless you specifically book a 4WD or AWD vehicle, you could end up with a basic sedan ill-suited for mountain roads. And yes, rental prices spike during ski season.
The Drive: What to Expect
Even without traffic, the 2.5-hour drive includes sharp turns, steep grades, and narrow shoulders, especially across Vail Pass, which is notorious for weather-related accidents. If you’re not used to winter driving or mountain roads, this can be an exhausting and nerve-wracking trip.
Parking in Beaver Creek
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Extremely limited and expensive, up to $15 or more per day during ski season
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Many hotels charge additional fees for parking
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Free parking is rare, especially near the lifts
4. Public Transit Options
If you’re determined to find a budget-friendly solution, public transit does exist but it’s inconvenient and time-consuming.
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No direct train or bus from DEN to Beaver Creek
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You’ll need to take multiple buses or light rail into Denver, then transfer to a regional bus service (like Bustang or Greyhound), and then connect again to Avon/Beaver Creek
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Travel time: 5–7 hours minimum
In short: not recommended unless you’re traveling ultra-light and have lots of time to spare.
Travel Tips for the 132‑Mile Journey
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Check road conditions on I‑70 before departure – snow, accidents, or construction can delay travel dramatically. I‑70 road condition updates
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Winter road conditions may require traction devices or snow tires—especially on Vail Pass
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Account for luggage when booking a shuttle or car
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Plan around peak traffic times (Friday afternoons, Sunday evenings, holiday weekends)
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Give yourself a buffer especially if your arrival is close to dinner, resort check-ins, or ski rentals
Distance-Based Recommendations
How far is Beaver Creek from Denver Airport? At 132 miles, it’s a longer journey than many expect. Here’s what we recommend:
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For convenience and peace of mind: Book a shuttle from Denver Airport to Beaver Creek
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For maximum flexibility (and if you’re confident with mountain driving): Rent a 4WD vehicle
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Avoid rideshare unless it’s a last resort or you’re splitting the cost with a large group
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Skip public transit unless you’re on a tight budget and comfortable navigating multiple connections
Getting to Beaver Creek from Denver Airport is more than just a hop, skip, and a jump. At 132 miles and over 2,800 feet in elevation gain, it’s a journey that demands planning especially during ski season. Whether you opt for a shared shuttle, private car, or decide to brave the mountain roads yourself, the most important thing is to plan ahead.
Don’t leave transportation to chance and book your Denver Airport to Beaver Creek ride in advance and start your Colorado mountain vacation stress-free.
Amber Boutwell is a published Denver photographer who loves capturing nature and food. She shoots with natural light but has a deep love for dark skies. When she’s not on mountaintops chasing the Milky Way, she’s managing the great brands behind AVA and The Outlaw Group as their Marketing Manager. She’s been known to quote Joe Pesci, over-kiss cats, enthusiastically eat cheese, and return pugs.
Her motto:
“Seek out places where the Wi-Fi is weak, the views are stunning, and don’t forget the snacks.”
