Why Airport Proximity & Access Matter for Skiers
Maybe you and your family or group is looking to go skiing and snowboarding and maybe you are not too concerned with anything other than which Colorado ski resort is easiest to get to? Well, there are a couple of answers to this question and soon you’ll be informed of which ski resorts offer the easiest access.
1. Copper Mountain: Closest to Denver I‑70
The absolute easiest ski resort to get to in Colorado would have to be Copper Mountain Resort (even though Breckenridge isn’t too far away). This is for many reasons.
- Copper Mountain is located just off Interstate 70. From Denver it’s a super quick trip spanning just 102 miles and it could take as little as 1 hour and 40 minutes.
- Being just off of Interstate 70, the majority of the time spent in the car to reach Copper Mountain Resort is primarily highway time so, you will be able to avoid most stop lights and issues that may cause your trip time to increase, such as stop and go traffic.
- Peak 1 Express provides door-to-door service directly to Copper Mountain Resort. So even if you do not want to drive yourself to Copper Mountain, we have gone and made is so much easier for you so that you and your party can simply sit back, relax and not worry about having to drive.
2. Eldora Mountain Resort: Proximity to Denver & Boulder
Eldora Mountain Resort is one of the easiest ski resorts to access if you’re coming from Denver or Boulder. Located just 21 miles west of Boulder, it’s the closest ski destination to the city, making it a favorite for locals and visitors looking for a quick getaway. If you’re coming from Denver, the drive is still convenient, at about 47 miles and roughly an hour and a half, depending on traffic.
Eldora sits just off the Peak to Peak Highway, so you’ll spend most of your drive cruising along scenic roads rather than dealing with heavy city traffic. The route is relatively straightforward and avoids major highway congestion, which can help reduce travel time.
For those who don’t want to drive, Eldora offers a range of shuttle services from both Denver and Boulder. From the Boulder Transit Center, the Eldora Shuttle will take you directly to the slopes, allowing you to avoid the hassle of parking and traffic. Whether you’re coming from the city or the suburbs, Eldora offers one of the most convenient access points for skiers seeking a quick and easy trip to the mountains.
3. Winter Park Resort: Mountain Resort Closer to Denver
Winter Park Resort offers some of the best access for skiers looking for a more substantial resort, while still being relatively close to Denver. Located just 66 miles from the city, Winter Park is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive along Interstate 70 and Highway 40. For most of your drive, you’ll be on the highway, so you can enjoy smooth, uninterrupted travel to the resort.
The drive includes a few scenic mountain routes, making the trip even more enjoyable as you get closer to the resort. While Winter Park isn’t as close as Eldora, it’s still one of the most convenient larger ski resorts from Denver.
For those who prefer not to drive, Winter Park offers a range of shuttle services from Denver International Airport (DIA) as well as downtown Denver. Several private shuttle companies, including the Winter Park Express, offer direct service, meaning you can skip the car rental and be dropped off right at the resort. This convenience makes it an excellent choice for those flying in and heading straight to the slopes.
4. Loveland Ski Area: Near Eisenhower Tunnel & Front Range
Loveland Ski Area is a fantastic option for skiers looking for quick access to the slopes without venturing too far from the Denver area. Located just 53 miles west of Denver, Loveland is one of the most accessible resorts along the I-70 corridor. The drive from Denver takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes on average, making it a quick choice for those who want to spend more time skiing and less time in the car.
Loveland is located just east of the Eisenhower Tunnel, a major landmark that helps make this resort one of the easiest to access from the Front Range. The majority of your drive will be on I-70, and once you exit at the Loveland Ski Area, the remaining portion of the drive is short and direct.
For those who want to skip the driving altogether, Loveland also offers shuttle services from the Denver area. These services operate regularly during the winter months, providing an easy, stress-free way to get from Denver directly to the resort. Loveland’s close proximity to both Denver and the Eisenhower Tunnel makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a quick and easy ski trip without a lot of travel time.
Hitch a ride to Summit County or Vail Valley with Peak 1 Express, then take advantage of the free transportation options throughout the Rocky Mountains instead of worrying about a rental car.
5. Ski Resorts Closest to Regional Airports
For those seeking easy access to the slopes without a long drive, regional airports in Colorado offer more direct options for travelers. Here are some of the best ski resorts that are close to regional airports:
Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) – Aspen Snowmass
Located just 3 miles from downtown Aspen, Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) is one of the most convenient airports for those looking to hit the slopes quickly. The flight options to ASE are abundant, with many major airlines offering non-stop flights during ski season. Once you land, it’s only a short drive or shuttle ride to the world-class ski areas of Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk. The ease of access makes it a top choice for skiers and snowboarders who want to maximize their time on the mountain.
Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) – Vail/Beaver Creek
Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) is located in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, roughly 30 miles from the famous Vail and Beaver Creek ski resorts. With a variety of direct flights from major cities across the U.S., EGE is a favorite choice for those heading to Vail’s expansive terrain or Beaver Creek’s family-friendly slopes. Upon arrival, visitors can easily access the resorts through a quick shuttle ride or private transfer, allowing for a seamless transition from airport to mountain.
Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN) – Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs, known for its legendary powder and family-friendly vibe, is served by Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN), just 22 miles from the resort. Direct flights are available from a number of major U.S. cities during the winter months. Once you land at HDN, you can quickly hop on a shuttle or rent a car to head straight to the slopes. Steamboat’s combination of deep powder, varied terrain, and accessibility makes it a top destination for skiers looking for convenience and quality skiing.
6. Tips for Choosing Based on Access & Travel Ease
When selecting a ski resort based on ease of access, several factors can influence your decision, from the convenience of nearby airports to transportation options once you land. Here are some key tips for choosing a ski resort with the best access:
Consider Flight Availability
Look for airports that offer direct flights from your departure city. Regional airports like ASE, EGE, and HDN often have non-stop flights from major hubs, making your journey much quicker and more convenient. Direct flights save you time and hassle, and they reduce the chances of delays or cancellations that could add stress to your trip.
Evaluate Transfer Times
Once you land, how long will it take to reach your resort? Choose a destination with short transfer times to the ski area. For example, Aspen Snowmass and Steamboat Springs both offer incredibly short drives from the airport, while larger resorts like Vail might require a longer ride. Consider your priorities — a quick shuttle ride might be worth the convenience if you value time on the slopes over the experience of a longer drive.
Check Airport Services
Some regional airports, like ASE, are smaller and more manageable, making them less crowded and easier to navigate. If you prefer a smoother airport experience without the chaos of major international hubs, opt for a regional airport with convenient services, such as expedited security, rental car facilities, and shuttles to your resort.
Consider Seasonal Factors
Weather conditions and airport traffic can affect your travel experience. Ski resorts like Vail and Aspen see significant seasonal traffic, so it’s wise to plan your arrival with some flexibility. If you’re traveling during peak holiday times, consider booking flights during off-peak hours or even mid-week for easier access.
Look for Family-Friendly Access
For families, convenience is key. Resorts with nearby regional airports, such as Steamboat Springs and Aspen Snowmass, make it easier to manage young children and ski gear. Look for options that offer shuttle services directly to the resort, or consider renting a car if you prefer a more personalized experience. Additionally, check if the resort offers package deals that include transportation, ski rentals, and lift tickets to simplify your trip.
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.”
