If you’ve ever dreamed of carving down the famous Back Bowls, sipping après-ski cocktails in Vail Village, or hiking alpine trails above the Gore Range, one question probably comes first: how do I get to Vail Colorado?
Despite its reputation as a world-class resort, Vail isn’t tucked away in some remote corner of the Rockies. In fact, it’s remarkably accessible—whether you’re flying in, driving from Denver, or arriving on a shuttle from nearby Eagle. The trick is knowing which routes, airports, and travel hacks will make your journey smoother (and less stressful).
In this guide, we’ll break down the best ways to get to Vail, complete with real-world examples, pro tips, and the kind of insider advice seasoned travelers rely on.
How Do I Get To Vail Colorado by Air?
The fastest way to Vail often starts in the sky. Two airports serve as gateways:
1. Denver International Airport (DEN)
- Distance: ~120 miles east of Vail.
- Drive time: 2–2.5 hours, depending on traffic and weather.
- Advantages: Hundreds of daily domestic and international flights.
- Drawback: You’ll need to cross the sometimes-treacherous I-70 mountain corridor.
2. Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE)
- Distance: Just 35 miles west of Vail.
- Drive time: 30–40 minutes.
- Advantages: Much closer, smaller crowds, and winter flights from major hubs like Chicago, Dallas, and Miami.
- Drawback: Seasonal flight schedules and fewer daily options.
Pro Tip: If you’re flying in for a quick ski weekend, Eagle is worth the convenience. For longer trips or international travelers, Denver usually offers better flight flexibility.
Driving to Vail: Scenic but Sometimes Stressful
Driving is the most common way visitors answer the question: how do I get to Vail Colorado?
- From Denver: Take I-70 west. The highway climbs through the Front Range, passes through the Eisenhower Tunnel, and winds down to Vail.
- From Grand Junction: Drive east on I-70, about 150 miles.
Things to Know Before Driving
- Winter weather: Chains or snow tires are often required during storms (Colorado enforces traction laws).
- Traffic: Fridays and Sundays can turn I-70 into a crawl, especially around ski season.
- Scenic payoff: On clear days, the views of snowy peaks and canyons make the drive memorable.
I once left Denver on a Friday afternoon and spent nearly five hours getting to Vail due to ski traffic. The lesson? Leave early in the morning, or better yet, travel midweek if you can.
Shuttle Services: Stress-Free Travel
For those who’d rather not white-knuckle their way over mountain passes, shuttle services are a popular alternative.
- Epic Mountain Express: The most well-known, offering door-to-door service from both Denver and Eagle airports.
- Shared vs. private shuttles: Shared rides save money, while private SUVs and vans are ideal for groups.
- Convenience factor: Many shuttles drop you directly at your hotel or condo, no rental car needed.
Families and international visitors often prefer this option because it eliminates parking headaches and lets someone else handle the mountain driving.
Getting Around Once You’re in Vail
Here’s the secret: once you’re in Vail, you might not need a car at all.
- Free town buses: Constant routes connect Vail Village, Lionshead, East Vail, and West Vail.
- Walkability: Both Vail Village and Lionshead are pedestrian-only, designed for strolling.
- Ride-share: Uber and Lyft operate, though availability is more limited than in big cities.
Many first-timers rent a car only to leave it parked all week. If your lodging is near a bus stop, skip the car and save on parking fees (which can be steep).
7 Essential Travel Tips for Getting to Vail
- Check the weather before traveling. Winter storms can shut down I-70 temporarily.
- Book shuttles in advance. Peak season fills up quickly.
- Travel midweek. You’ll dodge the worst of ski traffic.
- Pack for altitude. Vail sits at 8,150 feet—hydration is key.
- Fly into Eagle for shorter transfers. It’s pricier but stress-free.
- Rent wisely. If you’re staying slopeside, you may not need a car.
- Use CDOT resources. Colorado’s Department of Transportation posts live road conditions and cameras.
Real-World Traveler Example
A Boston couple I met at Solaris Plaza shared their journey:
- Flight: Boston to Denver nonstop.
- Shuttle: Booked Epic Mountain Express directly to their Lionshead hotel.
- Experience: Despite a snowstorm, they arrived stress-free while others were stranded on I-70.
Their takeaway? “The shuttle cost less than a rental car, and we didn’t have to think about chains or parking once.”
FAQs: How Do I Get To Vail Colorado
Q1: What is the closest airport to Vail?
Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) is only 35 miles away. Denver International (DEN) is larger and offers more flight options.
Q2: Do I need to rent a car to visit Vail?
Not necessarily. Vail has free buses and is highly walkable. Shuttles from the airport often suffice.
Q3: How long is the drive from Denver to Vail?
Typically 2–2.5 hours, though traffic or weather can stretch it to 4–5 hours.
Q4: What’s the cheapest way to get to Vail from Denver?
Shared airport shuttles are usually cheaper than rental cars, especially once parking costs are factored in.
Q5: Can I take public transportation to Vail?
Yes, Bustang (Colorado’s intercity bus) runs routes from Denver to Vail for budget travelers.
Conclusion: The Journey Is Part of the Adventure
So, how do I get to Vail Colorado? You have options—fly into Denver for flexibility, Eagle for convenience, drive I-70 for the scenery, or let a shuttle handle it all. The right choice depends on your priorities: cost, time, or ease.
No matter how you arrive, the journey is part of the mountain-town magic. From the moment you crest Vail Pass and see the valley spread out below, you’ll know the trip was worth it.
For more travel insights, see our guides to Where to Park at Vail Ski Resort and What to Do in Vail Colorado in December.
Summary (TL;DR)
To get to Vail, you can fly into Denver (2–2.5 hours away) or Eagle (35 minutes), drive I-70, or book a shuttle like Epic Mountain Express. Once in Vail, free buses and walkable villages mean you may not need a car. Travel midweek, check weather, and plan ahead for the smoothest trip.
