Quick Answer
For most travelers, the best overall way to get from Denver Airport to Colorado Springs is a pre-booked shared shuttle (like Groome Transportation), balancing cost (~$50-$65), convenience, and a ~1.5-2.5 hour direct trip. The fastest option is a private car, taxi, or rideshare (~1h15m-1h45m), but costs $150-$300. The cheapest public option is a combination of RTD bus and Bustang (under $30), but takes over 3.5 hours with transfers. Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility, especially for exploring beyond the city.
1. Shared & Private Shuttles: The Most Popular Choice
Shared airport shuttles offer the optimal balance of price, convenience, and direct service for solo travelers, couples, and small groups. They provide door-to-door service between DEN and most addresses in Colorado Springs.
Top Shuttle Service Providers
- Groome Transportation: The market leader. Offers frequent, reliable shared-ride vans and private vans. Service runs from approximately 4:00 AM to 11:30 PM. Pick-up is on Level 5 of the DEN terminal.
- Colorado Springs Shuttle: A reputable local operator providing similar shared and private services.
- Private Charter Vans/Buses: For groups of 10+, companies like Ace Charter or One World Transportation offer dedicated vehicles.
| Service Type | Avg. Cost (One-Way) | Travel Time | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shared Shuttle (Groome) | $45 - $65 per person | 1.5 - 2.5 hours | Solo travelers, couples, budget-conscious small groups | May make multiple stops; schedule depends on flight arrival time. |
| Private Van (2-7 pax) | $200 - $350 total | 1.25 - 1.75 hours | Families, groups, those with lots of luggage or needing immediate departure | Must book in advance. Price is for the vehicle, not per person. |
| Private Sedan | $180 - $250 total | 1.25 - 1.75 hours | Business travelers, couples seeking comfort | Luggage space is limited to 2-3 suitcases. |
Booking Tips & Process
Book in advance online, especially during peak seasons (summer, ski season, holidays). Upon arrival at DEN, call the shuttle provider's dedicated phone line (posted at their pickup area) to confirm your pickup. The pickup location for most shuttles is on Level 5 (Island 5, outside Doors 507-511 (East) or 512-516 (West)) of the Jeppesen Terminal. According to Denver Airport's official ground transport page, all permitted providers operate from here.
2. Renting a Car at Denver Airport: Ultimate Flexibility
Renting a car is the most flexible and often most cost-effective option for groups of 3 or more, or for anyone planning to explore Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs, Pikes Peak, or other regional attractions.
Why Rent at DEN?
- Direct Route: Drive from DEN to Colorado Springs via I-70 W to I-25 S. The drive is straightforward and takes 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours (highly traffic-dependent).
- Freedom: Visit Garden of the Gods, US Air Force Academy, Royal Gorge, or Denver itself on your schedule.
- Cost-Effective for Groups: A rental car + gas + parking can be cheaper per person than multiple shuttle tickets.
Rental Process & Tips
All major rental companies (Hertz, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, etc.) are located at the DEN Car Rental Center. Take the train from the terminal to the center (it's free and runs 24/7).
- Book Early: Prices surge during peak travel times. Use aggregate sites (Kayak, Rentalcars.com) to compare.
- Consider Winter Driving: From November to April, request a vehicle with All-Wheel Drive (AWD/4WD) and ensure it has all-weather or snow tires. Colorado's "Passenger Vehicle Traction Laws" can be in effect on I-25, requiring proper tires or chains during storms.
- Toll Roads: The E-470 toll road is a bypass option. Rental companies offer toll transponders for a daily fee; decide if it's worth it for your route.
3. Public Bus & Train Combination: The Budget Adventure
This is the least expensive method but requires patience, planning, and comfort with multiple transfers. It is not recommended for those with heavy luggage or tight schedules.
The Step-by-Step Journey
- DEN to Denver Union Station: Take the University of Colorado A-Line commuter train from the airport. Trains run every 15-30 minutes, 24/7. The trip takes ~37 minutes and costs $10.50.
- Union Station to Colorado Springs: Walk to the nearby bus terminal and board the CDOT Bustang South Line. This express bus runs multiple times daily to Colorado Springs. The trip takes about 1 hour 50 minutes and costs $12-$15.
- Arrival in Colorado Springs: The Bustang drops off at the Tejon & Colorado Ave Park & Ride downtown. From there, you may need a local bus (Mountain Metro) or rideshare to your final hotel.
Total Estimated Cost: ~$23-$27. Total Estimated Time: 3.5 to 4.5 hours (including transfers and wait times). Schedules are limited, especially on weekends and evenings—plan meticulously using the Bustang schedule.
4. Domestic Flight from DEN to COS: Fast in the Air, Slow Door-to-Door
While a direct flight from Denver (DEN) to Colorado Springs Airport (COS) takes only 30-40 minutes, it is rarely the most efficient door-to-door choice due to extensive airport processing time.
The Reality of "Flying" This Route
- Airlines: United Express and Southwest operate the route.
- Total Door-to-Door Time: Typically 3 to 4 hours. This includes: travel to DEN gate, recommended 90-minute pre-flight arrival, flight time, deplaning, baggage claim at COS, and then ground transport from COS to your final destination (another 20-40 minutes).
- Cost: One-way fares range from $100 to $300+, often more expensive than a shuttle or the gas cost for a rental car.
- When It Makes Sense: If you have a connecting flight through DEN anyway, or if you have a severe time constraint and can travel with carry-on only to minimize airport time.
Getting from Colorado Springs Airport (COS) to Downtown
If you do fly into COS, ground options include taxis, rideshares (~$25-$40 to downtown), or rental cars picked up at the COS terminal.
5. Taxi, Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) & Private Car Service
This is a premium, on-demand service best for those prioritizing speed, privacy, and convenience over cost.
Cost & Options
| Service | Estimated One-Way Cost | Travel Time | How to Book |
|---|---|---|---|
| UberX / Lyft Standard | $150 - $220 | 1h15m - 1h45m | Use the app at DEN. Pick-up is on Level 5 (Rideshare area). Prices surge dramatically during peak hours, bad weather, or high demand. |
| UberXL / Lyft XL (6 pax) | $220 - $300 | 1h15m - 1h45m | Good for groups. Price is for the vehicle. |
| Taxi (Yellow Cab, Metro Taxi) | $200 - $280 (flat rate may apply) | 1h15m - 1h45m | Find taxis on Level 5, Island 1 outside Doors 505-507 (East) and 510-512 (West). Confirm the approximate fare before departing. |
| Pre-Booked Private Car | $250 - $400+ | 1h15m - 1h45m | Book online with companies like Blacklane or Carey. A driver meets you at baggage claim with a sign. |
Best Use Cases: Late-night/early-morning arrivals when shuttles aren't running, corporate travel, travelers with mobility issues, or groups of 4+ where the per-person cost becomes competitive with shuttles.
6. Cost & Time Comparison Table: At a Glance
Use this table to quickly compare all transport options from Denver International Airport (DEN) to downtown Colorado Springs.
| Transport Method | Avg. Cost (One-Way) | Travel Time | Convenience / Notes | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shared Shuttle (e.g., Groome) | $45 - $65 | 1.5 - 2.5 hrs | Direct, door-to-door. May have short wait for other passengers. | Best Overall for most solo travelers & couples. |
| Rental Car | $40 - $100/day + gas | 1.25 - 2 hrs | Ultimate flexibility. Requires driving, parking, and potential tolls. | Families, groups, explorers. |
| Public Bus/Train (RTD + Bustang) | ~$23 - $27 | 3.5 - 4.5+ hrs | Multiple transfers, fixed schedule. Not luggage-friendly. | Cheapest Option, ultra-budget travelers. |
| Domestic Flight (DEN to COS) | $100 - $300+ | 3 - 4 hrs (door-to-door) | Includes all airport time. Often slower than driving. | Travelers with a DEN connection only. |
| Rideshare (UberX/Lyft) | $150 - $300 | 1.25 - 1.75 hrs | On-demand, private. High surge pricing risk. | Fastest Option, small groups, late arrivals. |
| Private Car Service | $250 - $400+ | 1.25 - 1.75 hrs | Luxury, meet-and-greet service. Book in advance. | Business, luxury, or special occasion travel. |
7. Traveler Tips & Local Experience
Essential Advice for a Smooth Journey
- Book Ground Transport in Advance: Especially during peak seasons (June-August, December-March ski season, major holidays). Shuttles and rental cars sell out, and prices skyrocket.
- Factor in Mountain Time (and Traffic): I-25 between Denver and Colorado Springs is a major corridor and is prone to rush hour congestion (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM) and accidents, which can double travel time. Use Google Maps/Waze for real-time traffic before you depart.
- Winter is a Wild Card: As noted by the Colorado Department of Transportation, mountain weather is unpredictable. A sunny Denver day can mean a blizzard over Monument Hill. Always check conditions on COTrip.org before driving. Carry water, snacks, and warm clothing in your vehicle.
- Altitude Awareness: Denver is the "Mile High City," and Colorado Springs is even higher at ~6,000 ft. Stay hydrated, avoid excessive alcohol initially, and pace yourself to prevent altitude sickness.
- Luggage Strategy: If you're traveling with skis, golf clubs, or oversized luggage, confirm policies with your shuttle or rental company before booking. Most shuttles have capacity limits.
Sample Itinerary & Decision Flow
For a solo business traveler on a tight schedule arriving at 2 PM: Pre-book a private sedan or use Uber/Lyft for the fastest, most reliable door-to-door service.
For a family of 4 on a skiing vacation: Rent an SUV with AWD at DEN. The cost will be comparable to or less than 4 shuttle tickets, and you'll have the freedom to go to the slopes and grocery stores.
For a budget backpacker arriving on a Tuesday afternoon: Take the A-Line to Bustang. It's cheap, scenic, and you're not in a hurry.
FAQs: Getting from Denver Airport to Colorado Springs
What is the cheapest way to get from Denver Airport to Colorado Springs?
The cheapest way is by shared shuttle service like Groome Transportation or Colorado Springs Shuttle, with fares starting around $40-$55 one-way. Public bus combinations (via RTD and Bustang) are even cheaper (under $30) but involve multiple transfers and take significantly longer (3.5+ hours).
What is the fastest way to get from Denver Airport to Colorado Springs?
The fastest option is a private car service, taxi, or rideshare (Uber/Lyft), taking about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes depending on traffic. Renting a car and driving yourself offers similar speed and flexibility. Shuttles and shared vans take 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
Is there a direct train from Denver Airport to Colorado Springs?
No, there is no direct passenger train service connecting Denver International Airport (DEN) to downtown Colorado Springs. The closest rail option involves taking the University of Colorado A-Line commuter train from DEN to Denver Union Station (37 min), then a complex series of transfers to potentially reach a bus (like Bustang) heading south. This is not time-efficient for airport transfers.
Are there direct flights from Denver Airport to Colorado Springs Airport (COS)?
Yes, United Airlines and Southwest Airlines operate multiple direct flights daily between Denver (DEN) and Colorado Springs (COS). Flight time is approximately 30-40 minutes. However, when you factor in airport arrival time, security, boarding, deplaning, and travel from COS to your final destination, the total door-to-door journey often takes 3-4 hours, which is comparable to or longer than driving.
How do I get from Denver Airport to Colorado Springs late at night or early in the morning?
Late-night and early-morning options are limited. Shared shuttles like Groome typically run from ~4:00 AM to 11:30 PM. For flights arriving between midnight and 4 AM, your only practical options are a 24/7 taxi/rideshare (expensive), a private car service booked in advance, or renting a car. It's crucial to check the latest schedules for your specific arrival date.
Is it better to rent a car at Denver Airport or in Colorado Springs?
It is almost always better and more convenient to rent a car directly at Denver Airport (DEN). Airport locations have the largest fleets, longest operating hours, and competitive rates. Renting in Colorado Springs would require you to use another transport method to get there first, adding cost, time, and complexity. Book your DEN rental in advance for the best price.
Can I use a shuttle if I have a lot of luggage or skis/snowboards?
Yes, most shared shuttle services like Groome Transportation can accommodate standard luggage and sports equipment. They typically allow 1-2 checked bags and 1 carry-on per person free of charge. For oversized items like multiple ski/snowboard bags, large groups, or excessive luggage, you must declare it when booking and may incur an extra fee. Private shuttles offer more luggage flexibility.
How reliable is the drive from Denver to Colorado Springs in winter?
The drive via I-25 can be challenging and unpredictable in winter (Nov-April). Mountain weather can cause sudden snowstorms, high winds, black ice, and reduced visibility, leading to road closures or significant delays. If driving or using a shuttle in winter, always check CDOT road conditions, allow ample extra time, and ensure your vehicle has all-wheel/4-wheel drive or proper snow tires. Consider travel insurance for flight disruptions.