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Drive to Vail

A Scenic Trip in Any Season

Discover driving tips, transportation alternatives and how to find the most up-to-date information about road conditions. Please know that peak travel days are Fridays (westbound on I-70) and Sundays (eastbound on I-70). Plan your drive to Vail with prime drive times in mind so you spend more time enjoying the beauty of Vail, rather than looking at brake lights.

Once you’ve arrived, you won’t need a car! Stroll pedestrian-friendly streets, hop on a bike or board Vail’s free in-town bus system to get around Vail Village and Lionshead Village.

Flying to Vail? Getting Around Vail

AVOID I-70 GRIDLOCK & TAKE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Use public transit to take the headache out of your drive. Avoid dealing with traffic and icy roads by letting Colorado Department of Transportation services do the driving for you. With accessible routes and frequent schedules, Colorado DOT is sure to have a public transit option that fits your trip.

Get Travel Tips
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PEGASUS SPRINTER VANS

Use this smaller, van-based service providing quick and convenient travel between Denver and mountain destinations like Vail, ideal for small groups and flexible schedules.

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BUSTANG BUS SERVICE

This regional bus service connects major cities across Colorado with affordable, comfortable and reliable transportation.

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GET ROAD CONDITIONS

The Colorado Department of Transportation maintains a handy online resource boasting all kinds of helpful information, like road conditions, cameras, traffic speeds, construction, popular routes, laws and other travel alerts. You can also read through helpful tips on driving in the mountains.

EXPLORE CDOT TRIP RESOURCES

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Share & Save

Travelers from Denver to Vail can choose between shared shuttles, which offer a budget-friendly ride with other passengers, or private shuttles for a more flexible, personalized trip.

Drive to Vail FAQs

Where is Vail, Colorado?

Vail, Colorado, is located approximately 118 miles from Denver International Airport (DEN) when you’re traveling west along I-70. It’s about 146 miles from Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) when driving east. Vail is located only 35 miles from Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE).

Are there scenic spots to stop along the way?

Yes! When driving from Denver to Vail, Colorado, popular stops include Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Dillon Reservoir and Loveland Pass.

Are there gas stations along the way?

Yes, if you’re driving from Denver, there are gas stations in towns like Idaho Springs, Georgetown, Silverthorne and Frisco. It’s best to fill up before ascending to Vail.

Do I need a four-wheel drive vehicle?

While not mandatory, a four-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive vehicle is highly recommended, especially in winter. Colorado’s traction law may require it during snowstorms.

What is Colorado's Traction Law?

During winter storms, or when conditions require, CDOT will implement the Passenger Vehicle Traction Law. CDOT can implement the Passenger Vehicle Traction and Chain Laws on any state highway. During a Traction Law, all motorists are required to have either:

  1. Four-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive vehicle and 3/16-inch tread depth
  2. Tires with a mud and snow designation (M+S icon) and 3/16-inch tread depth
  3. Winter tires (mountain-snowflake icon) and 3/16-inch tread depth
  4. Tires with an all-weather rating by the manufacturer and 3/16-inch tread depth
  5. Chains or an approved alternative traction device

What should I do if I-70 is closed due to weather?

Check alternative routes, such as Highway 6 over Loveland Pass, but these may also close in severe weather. Stay updated via COTrip.org. If I-70 is closed due to severe weather, plan to stay in place until the road reopens. Closures can last several hours or even overnight in extreme cases.

Vail’s visitor centers and local authorities are excellent resources during road closures. Staff can help direct you to lodging, dining and other services. Emergency shelters may also be set up if the closure is prolonged.