Vail Shuttle Schedule: Denver to Vail & Vail to Denver Airport Transportation

Peak 1 Express operates daily scheduled shuttles from Denver International Airport (DEN) to all of Vail, including East Vail, West Vail, and the Vail Transportation Center. We also provide multiple daily departures from Vail back to Denver, making your return trip simple and stress-free.

In winter, we run hourly trips to and from DEN starting at 5am, with shuttles available throughout the day and evening. If our schedule doesn’t fit your needs, or if you have a family or large group, we also offer private charters available 24/7.

Select the season below to view our full shuttle schedule for both directions, then scroll down to learn why taking a shuttle is the smarter choice for your Vail trip.

Winter Rates (November 21 – April 5)

Door-to-Door Service (Vail, East Vail, West Vail)

• Per passenger rate: Starting at $64-$84

Vail Transportation Center & Transfer Stations

• Per passenger rate: Starting at $44-$69

Summer Rates (May 1 – November 20)

Door-to-Door Service (Vail, East Vail, West Vail)

• Per passenger rate: Starting at $54-$74

Vail Transportation Center & Transfer Stations

• Per passenger rate: Starting at $39-$59

View Shuttle Rates

SHUTTLE SCHEDULES

All Peak 1 Express shared shuttles pick up and drop off at the Vail Transportation Center (VTC), the central hub for all ground transportation in Vail.

Address: 241 S Frontage Rd E, Vail, CO 81657

Why the VTC?

The Vail Transportation Center is the most convenient location for shuttle service because:

• Central Location: Easy access from anywhere in Vail Village
• Free Local Bus Network: Once you arrive at the VTC, you can take Vail’s free local bus system to your final destination
• Walk-On Service: Need a last-minute ride to Denver? Walk-on passengers are welcome at the VTC during scheduled pickup times
• Parking Available: Ample parking if you need to leave a vehicle

Pickup Instructions:

• Arrive 10-15 minutes before your scheduled departure time
• Look for the Peak 1 Express logo on our Mercedes Sprinter vans
• Our drivers will assist with luggage and ski equipment

Driving from Vail to Denver presents unique challenges that can add significant stress, delays, and cost to your trip. This section explains why taking a Peak 1 Express shuttle is the smarter choice for your return journey.

Summer Driving Challenges: I-70 Car Fires & Overheating

The eastbound descent from the Eisenhower Tunnel on I-70 is one of the steepest grades in Colorado. During summer months, this steep grade causes vehicle engines to overheat, leading to brake failure and car fires. CDOT frequently closes I-70 due to vehicle fires, sometimes for hours at a time.

The Impact on Your Trip:

• Unexpected closures can add 2-4 hours to your drive
• Risk of missing your flight due to highway closure
• Stress of navigating heavy traffic and potential emergency situations
• Potential damage to rental car brakes from overheating

The Peak 1 Express Advantage: Our professional drivers navigate this route multiple times daily and know how to manage the descent safely. Our well-maintained vehicles are specifically equipped for mountain driving and have never experienced the overheating issues common to rental cars.

Winter Driving Challenges: I-70 Metering & Closures

During winter, CDOT implements a “metering” system to control traffic flow through the Eisenhower Tunnel. This system creates a standstill on I-70 for miles, sometimes lasting 1-2 hours. Additionally, winter weather can cause unexpected closures.

The Impact on Your Trip:

• Metering can add 1-2 hours to your drive time
• Unpredictable closures due to snow, ice, or avalanche control
• Stress of navigating icy mountain roads
• Risk of missing your flight due to conditions beyond your control

The Peak 1 Express Advantage: Our dispatch team monitors I-70 conditions 24/7 and times shuttles to minimize metering delays. Our experienced drivers are trained in winter mountain driving and know how to navigate challenging conditions safely. If a closure occurs, we have contingency plans and alternative routes.