Skip to primary navigation Skip to content Skip to footer
Back to Blog

Affordable Transportation Options from Denver to Colorado Ski Resorts

a snow covered slope

Are you coming to Colorado to shred the gnar and experience our famous champagne powder but don’t want to rent a car? 

Over the past few months we’ve had many inquiries from travelers on public transportation options and how to get to the mountains and ski resorts without renting a car. Here’s a guide on everything you need to know and the affordable transportation options (non-private options) that are available from Denver.


There are 2 bus companies that will take you into the mountains.   

#1 The Bustang

a large tour bus is parked on the side of a mountain

The Bustang is run by the Colorado Department of Transportation and this is my favorite option. The buses are so clean, free wifi, and plenty of places to plug in your electronics. 

You will take the west line and they make stops in Frisco and Vail. ($12-$17 one way)

Tips – Purchase your tickets in advance by downloading their mobile ticket app to secure your seat on the bus. Buses leave early in the morning from Union station, so plan ahead and make sure you arrive on time. 

#2 The Greyhound

a bus parked on the side of a snow covered mountain

I personally have not had a great experience with taking Greyhound buses, but I know other people have. The good news is they offer many departure times, which is great for non-early risers.

Checkout their website for pricing and departure details.


Ski Resorts

a person riding a snowboard down a snow covered slope

Frisco, Breckenridge Copper Mountain.

Take the Bustang or Grayhound to the Frisco Transfer Center.  Summit county offers a free bus system that runs throughout the county.  From the transfer center hop on the correct bus to take you to your desired destination.

Vail

Take the Bustang to the Vail Transportation Center. This will drop you off just a few steps from the slopes and you can walk to the lift line. The town of Vail also offers a free bus throughout the city. 

Loveland, A-Basin, Steamboat Springs

On the weekends during the winter the Snowtang bus route is offered to Loveland, A-Basin and Steamboat Springs. The bus leaves from Denver Union Station and tickets start at $25.00 round trip for Arapaho Basin and Loveland. It will be $40.00 round trip for Steamboat Springs.

Tip: Tickets must be purchased in advance to secure your seat on the bus. The buses leave early in the morning so make sure you are aware of your departure time.

Public Transportation from Denver International Airport to Downtown Denver

If you are flying into Denver you can take the train from Denver International Airport to Denver Union Station ($10.50) which takes about 35 minutes.  You can purchase your train ticket at a ticket kiosk prior to boarding. You can also download RTD’s mobile ticketing app and purchase a train ticket online. 

I hope this helps and as always don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions.

 

a man and a woman taking a selfie in the snow

Happy shredding! 

Rachel 

Denver Local Tours

  • Posted in: