Breckenridge, Colorado is a world-class destination for winter sports enthusiasts, offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding in North America. However, it is not just for winter lovers, as the warm weather months have amazing activities as well. Located in Summit County, the town of Breckenridge is nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, making it easily accessible for all travelers.
When planning your trip to Breckenridge, the first decision you’ll need to make is which airport to fly into. The closest major airport is Denver International Airport (DEN), located approximately 105 miles east of Breckenridge. While there are other regional airports in the area, such as Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) and Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE), DEN is by far the most convenient and well-served airport for visitors to Breckenridge.
Getting From DEN to Breckenridge
From DEN, the drive to Breckenridge typically takes around two hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. When we went, there we hardly traffic on the roads and didn’t have any delays. The route is straightforward, with travelers taking I-70 west through the mountains before exiting onto Highway 9 south towards Breckenridge. While the drive can be challenging during the winter months, with snow and ice on the roads, there are many shuttle and private transfer options available to make the journey more comfortable and stress-free. If you do elect for a rental car during winter time, it would be wise to make sure you have a 4 wheel drive SUV or Truck.
One of the most popular options for getting from DEN to Breckenridge is the Colorado Mountain Express, a shared shuttle service that operates throughout the year. The shuttle runs several times a day between DEN and Breckenridge, with multiple pickup and drop-off locations in both locations. Prices for the shuttle start at around $65 per person, with discounts available for groups and advance bookings.
Another option for getting to Breckenridge from DEN is to hire a private transfer service. This can be a more expensive option, but it offers the convenience of door-to-door service and the flexibility of choosing your own pickup and drop-off times. Many companies, such as Summit Express and Peak 1 Express, offer private transfer services from DEN to Breckenridge, with prices starting at around $200 for a one-way trip.
Finally, if you prefer to drive yourself, there are several car rental options available at DEN. However, it’s worth noting that winter driving conditions in the mountains can be challenging, especially for those not accustomed to driving in snow and ice. It’s important to check the weather forecast and road conditions before setting out, and to equip your vehicle with snow tires or chains if necessary. If you have any questions be sure to ask your rental car company.
To summarize, when planning a trip to Breckenridge, Colorado, Denver International Airport is the best option for most visitors. The airport is well-served by major airlines and offers a range of transportation options to get you to Breckenridge quickly and safely. Whether you choose to take a shared shuttle, hire a private transfer, or drive yourself, the journey from DEN to Breckenridge is a beautiful one, and will set the stage for a wonderful vacation.