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Denver International Airport Guide for Breckenridge and Summit County
Denver International Airport is the gateway a great number of travelers use to reach the Colorado mountains in the United States. If you are flying in for a ski trip or heading to Summit County for a long weekend, this is the airport you will land at.
It is a big airport. It can feel confusing the first time. But once you know the basic layout, it is easy to move through.
You’ll learn how the terminal and concourses are organized. You'll learn about the parking. The best ways to get into the city or up into the mountains.
What Is Denver International Airport?
Denver International Airport is the main airport that serves the Denver area and the Colorado mountains. Its official airport code is DEN, although many Colorado residents still call it DIA. It's located 25 miles northeast of downtown Denver.
Denver International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the country. In 2025, Denver International Airport set an all-time record with over 82 million passengers. That makes it the fourth busiest airport in the United States. Over 27 airlines fly here, with United, Southwest, and Frontier as the main carriers.
The roof of the airport is shaped like mountain peaks. It is meant to remind you that the Rockies are close by. For most Lucky Mountain Home readers, that is exactly why you are here. This airport is your first step toward Breckenridge, Frisco, Keystone, or any other Summit County town.
What Terminals Does Denver International Airport Have?
There is only one main terminal. It is called the Jeppesen Terminal. Inside that one terminal, there are three concourses where the gates are. They are named A, B, and C.
- Concourse A: Handles international flights and some domestic flights. You can walk here from the main terminal using a bridge or take the train.
- Concourse B: The largest concourse. Mainly used by United Airlines. You can only reach it by train.
- Concourse C: Mainly used by Southwest Airlines. You can only reach it by train.
A free train runs under the airport and connects all three concourses to the main terminal. The train runs every two minutes all day and night. The ride to Concourse C takes about 10 minutes.
Before you fly, check which concourse your airline uses. It saves time and stress once you land.
How Do You Get Around Denver International Airport?
To get around Denver International Airport, the train connects everything. That is the main way to move around once you are past security.
The main terminal has six levels. Level 5 is where you find baggage claim. Rental car counters, taxis, and rideshare pickup. Level 6 is where you check in and go through security. Levels 1 through 4 are mostly parking.
If you are walking to Concourse A, there is a pedestrian bridge with moving walkways. For Concourse B or C, you must take the train. Signs throughout the airport make it easy to find your way.
What Are the Parking Options at Denver International Airport?
These are the parking options at Denver International Airport. The right one depends on how long you are staying and how much you want to spend.
On-Airport Parking
These lots are run by the airport itself. According to flydenver.com, here is what you can expect as of 2026:
- East and West Garage: $5 per hour, capped at $35 per day. It is the closest to the terminal. You do not need any shuttle. You just have to walk in.
- Economy Lots: Cost $20 per day. A short shuttle ride to the terminal, running every 7 to 10 minutes.
- Pikes Peak and Longs Peak Lots: $10 per day. The cheapest on-airport option. Free shuttle included.
- 61st and Peña Lot: $8 per day. You take the free RTD train into the terminal from here.
- Premium Reserved: $45 per day. The closest spot to the terminal. You can book this one in advance.
If you are parking for more than a few days, the Pikes Peak or Longs Peak lot saves you the most money on-site.
Off-Airport Parking
Several private companies offer parking near the airport for less money than the on-airport garages. Companies like Canopy Airport Parking, ParkDIA, and WallyPark Premier all offer rates starting around $9 to $12 per day. Every off-site lot includes a free shuttle to the terminal, usually within 10 to 15 minutes.
If you are parking for a full week, off-site parking can save you over $100 compared to the East or West Garage. It is worth comparing prices before you book.
How Do You Get from Denver International Airport into Denver?
We know that not everyone is heading straight to the mountains as they arrive at DIA. Some travelers spend a night or two in Denver first. If this is you, here are the best ways you can get to Denver from the airport:
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The A-Line Train
The University of Colorado A Line is a train that runs from the airport straight to Union Station in downtown Denver. It runs every 15 minutes, and the ride takes about 37 minutes. This is the cheapest and most reliable way into the city.
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Rideshare and Taxi
Uber and Lyft both pick up at Level 5 of the terminal. Taxis are also available at the same level. This is the easiest option if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with a group.
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Rental Cars
Rental car counters are on Level 5. If you plan to drive yourself to the mountains, this is the option you want. Just remember that in winter.
Winter conditions on I-70 can change quickly. When Colorado’s Passenger Vehicle Traction Law is active, vehicles must meet current tire, tread-depth, or traction-device requirements. Check CDOT road conditions and traction-law alerts before leaving the airport.
How Do You Get from Denver International Airport to the Colorado Mountains?
There are several easy ways to get from DEN to Summit County. Whether you're visiting Breckenridge, Keystone, Vail, Copper Mountain, Aspen, or another mountain town. After landing, you have several transportation options depending on your budget, group size, and travel plans.
You can drive yourself on I-70 West. You can book a shuttle through companies like Epic Mountain Express, Summit Express, or Peak 1 Express. Or you can take public transit using the Bustang bus from Union Station.
Let’s explain the options in detail:
Option 1: Rent a Car (Best for Flexibility)
Renting a car is the most popular choice, especially if you plan to explore multiple destinations or stay for several days.
How it works:
- After arriving at DEN, collect your luggage.
- Follow the signs to the rental car shuttle pickup area outside the terminal.
- Take the free shuttle to your rental company's facility.
- Pick up your vehicle.
- Follow Interstate 70 (I-70 West), the main highway connecting Denver to Colorado's mountain towns.
Depending on your destination, the drive typically takes the following amount of time:
Estimated driving times below assume normal traffic and weather. Travel can take considerably longer during snowstorms, holiday periods, and peak ski-weekend traffic.
- Breckenridge: 2 to 2.5 hours
- Frisco: About 2 hours
- Dillon: About 2 hours
- Keystone: About 2 hours
- Copper Mountain: Around 2 hours
- Vail: 2.5 to 3 hours
Winter driving can be challenging because of snow, ice, and heavy ski traffic. If you're visiting during ski season, choose an AWD or 4WD vehicle and check Colorado road conditions before leaving the airport.
This option is best for:
- Families
- Travelers with ski equipment
- Multi-day vacations
- Visitors exploring several mountain towns
Option 2: Take an Airport Shuttle (Most Convenient)
If you don't want to drive mountain roads, an airport shuttle is one of the easiest options.
Several companies provide daily transportation between Denver International Airport and Colorado's ski resorts.
Popular shuttle providers include:
- Peak 1 Express: Offers shared shuttles, private charters, and door-to-door service to Breckenridge, Frisco, Dillon, Silverthorne, Keystone, Copper Mountain, Vail, Beaver Creek, and other mountain destinations. Shared rides fares vary by route, season, and service type. Vehicles include Wi-Fi, luggage storage, and professional mountain drivers.
- Epic Mountain Express: This is one of Colorado's largest mountain transportation companies. They serve Breckenridge, Keystone, Frisco, Dillon, Silverthorne, Vail, Beaver Creek, and nearby communities. Travelers can choose between door-to-door service or lower-cost transportation center drop-offs.
How it works:
- Book your shuttle online before your trip.
- After collecting your luggage, head to the designated shuttle pickup area.
- Check in with your transportation company.
- Board your shuttle.
- Relax while your driver handles the mountain roads.
This option is best for:
- Ski vacations
- Solo travelers
- Couples
- Visitors who prefer not to drive
Option 3: Take Public Transportation (Most Affordable)
Public transportation is the cheapest way to reach many Colorado mountain towns, although it requires a transfer.
Step 1: Take the RTD A Line train from Denver International Airport to Denver Union Station.
The airport train runs approximately every 15 minutes during most of the day and takes about 37 minutes to reach downtown Denver.
Step 2: From Union Station, transfer to Bustang, Colorado's regional bus service.
Bustang serves destinations including Frisco, Vail, Glenwood Springs, and other mountain communities.
Once you arrive in Summit County, you can use the county's free bus system to travel between Breckenridge, Frisco, Dillon, Silverthorne, Keystone, and Copper Mountain.
This option is best for:
- Budget travelers
- Backpackers
- Visitors without heavy luggage
Option 4: Book a Private Car or SUV
If you're traveling with family, friends, or lots of luggage, a private transfer can save time.
Companies such as Peak 1 Express and Epic Mountain Express offer private SUVs, luxury vehicles, and group transportation directly from Denver International Airport to your hotel or vacation rental. Unlike shared shuttles, private vehicles leave when you're ready instead of following a fixed schedule.
This option is best for:
- Families
- Large groups
- Luxury travelers
- Travelers arriving late at night
Option 5: Use Uber or Lyft
Ride-share services are available at Denver International Airport. While this option works well for nearby destinations, trips to the mountains can become expensive. Availability may also be limited during snowstorms or peak ski weekends. Both the airport and local transportation providers note that shuttles are often a more practical choice for longer mountain trips.
One thing worth noting here is…
Flying into DEN gets easier every time you do it. And owning a home in the mountains makes that trip feel like part of your routine. If you are starting to think about more than just a vacation, Resort Real Estate Inc. can help. We have over two decades of experience helping buyers find the right home across Summit County. Call 970-389-8899 or email nbassova@gmail.com to start the conversation.
What Should You Know Before You Fly Into Denver International Airport?
Here are all the necessary tips to make your flight from and to Denver International Airport easier and smoother:
- Arrive early: The airport is large. Give yourself at least two hours before a domestic flight and more during busy ski season weekends.
- Check your concourse: Know if you are flying from A, B, or C before you land. It saves confusion at a busy gate area.
- Book parking in advance: Lots fill up fast during ski season, especially over the holidays. Reserve early if you are driving yourself.
- Watch the weather: Denver gets sudden snowstorms. If you are flying in winter, build in extra time for delays.
Plan your mountain transport ahead of time: Shuttles and rental cars book up fast during peak weekends. Decide your route before you land.
Is Denver International Airport a Good Gateway to Summit County?
Yes. It is the main gateway, and it works well. The airport is large, but it is well organized once you know the layout. Flights here connect from nearly every major city in the country.
From the airport, Summit County towns like Frisco, Breckenridge, Keystone, Dillon, Silverthorne, and Copper Mountain are all within about two hours by car. That is a short trip compared to many other ski destinations in the country. Where getting to the mountain can take half a day or more.
For second-home owners and regular visitors, that short drive is part of what makes Summit County so appealing. You can fly out of almost any city in the morning and be on the mountain by afternoon.
Flying into Denver gets you close to some of the best mountain living in the country. If this guide has you thinking about spending more time here, or even owning a place of your own, we would love to help.
Resort Real Estate Inc. has over two decades of experience helping buyers across Breckenridge, Keystone, Frisco, Dillon, Silverthorne, and Copper Mountain. Reach us at 970-389-8899 or email nbassova@gmail.com. You can also check out our Denver Airport to Frisco guide for the next step in your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions About Denver International Airport
How far is Denver International Airport from downtown Denver?
Denver International Airport is about 25 miles northeast of downtown Denver. The drive takes 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. The A Line train takes about 37 minutes and runs every 15 minutes.
What is the best way to get from Denver International Airport to the mountains?
Driving on I-70 West is the most flexible option if you want your own car. Booking a shuttle through a company like Epic Mountain Express or Summit Express is the easiest option if you do not want to drive. Either way, the trip to most Summit County towns takes about two hours. Check our guide on getting from Denver Airport to Frisco for full details.
How early should you arrive at Denver International Airport before a flight?
Arrive at least two hours before a domestic flight. During peak ski season weekends, especially around the holidays, give yourself even more time. The airport is large, and security lines can be long during busy travel periods.
Does Denver International Airport have direct shuttles to ski resorts?
Yes. Several shuttle companies, including Epic Mountain Express, Summit Express, and Peak 1 Express, run direct service from the airport to Breckenridge. They also cover Frisco, Keystone, Copper Mountain, and other Summit County towns. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during ski season.
