Getting to Colorado
Tips and resources to help you get to and around Colorado easily
Everything you need for a dream vacation is waiting for you in Colorado. With a vast network of airports, highways and trains, traveling to and from Colorado is effortless. Once you arrive, you'll find getting to everything you want to see and do in the state even easier. The state's 26 scenic byways and trains are simple to navigate and afford amazing views. Start planning your Colorado adventure today with the following resources:
Colorado Airports
Denver International Airport (DEN) offers nonstop flights to over 190 domestic and 30 international destinations, making it an excellent gateway for exploring the diverse landscapes of Colorado. With a variety of shuttle services and bus options, travelers can easily access mountain resorts and other destinations, and the airport can be reached from downtown Denver's city center via the A Line commuter rail.
Colorado Springs Airport (COS) serves Colorado’s second-largest city and facilitates easy access to the Pikes Peak area with various transportation options available.
Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) is the largest airport in Western Colorado and provides nonstop service to six destinations through five major airlines, including Denver.
Colorado also has several regional airports, such as Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) and Telluride Regional Airport (TEX), that offer convenient access to a wide range of destinations and ski resorts throughout the state.
Travel by Train
Traveling by train is one of the best ways to take in Colorado’s plentiful scenic routes with modern, convenient options and seven historic railroads. Amtrak’s California Zephyr line stops in Denver and passes through Fort Morgan, Fraser, Granby, Glenwood Springs and Grand Junction. Aboard the Southwest Chief, Colorado stops include Lamar, La Junta and Trinidad. Dedicated options like the Winter Park Express allow skiers to zip to the slopes with direct rail access to Denver International Airport. For an unforgettable experience, Rocky Mountaineer trains provide luxury service over four days between Utah and Colorado with glass-domed coaches and locally inspired dining.
Winter Driving
Colorado is often a winter paradise, but sometimes the snow and ice can make driving conditions tricky. Make sure your rental car has four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and speak with the rental company to ensure the vehicle has adequate equipment to comply with Colorado law. Failure to have winter-appropriate tires could result in a fine. Consider these safe driving practices for navigating winter roads:
- Maintain a much slower speed, accelerate at a slower rate and remember that four-wheel drive does not mean four-wheel stop.
- Don’t use cruise control when traveling in winter conditions.
- Keep your gas tank more than half full and keep extra blankets in your car in case you need to wait for roadside assistance to arrive.