Live Your Best Lives
  1. Travel FAQs
  2. United States
  3. Colorado (CO)
  4. Steamboat Springs

Looking for transportation options

Looking for reasonable transportation options between Denver and Steamboat in December.

Traveling between Denver and Steamboat Springs, CO in December gives you a few different options — each with trade-offs for cost, convenience, and timing. Below are several reasonable transportation options, plus some key considerations and tips.

  • Private Shuttle / Van Services
    • Storm Mountain Express: Offers private vans between Denver International Airport (DEN) and Steamboat Springs. Travel time is ~3.5–4 hours depending on road conditions.
    • GoSno Mountain Transportation: Provides private SUV (Suburban) service from DEN to Steamboat. They make rest stops (including for groceries), and typical drive time is ~3.5–4 hours.
    • Powderhound Tours: Their Denver → Steamboat shuttle is private to your group (up to 10 people), includes ski gear and luggage, and is quite competitive for a private ride.
    • Blue Sky Limo: More premium car / limo service from DEN to Steamboat, with SUVs and luxury vehicles. Travel time ~3 hr 5 min.
    • Mountain Limo Service: Offers SUV or van (up to 14) limo service from Denver or DEN to Steamboat.
  • Shared Shuttle Services
    • Ski Town Transportation: Shared-ride shuttles and private cars; they run to/from Hayden Airport (Yampa Valley / HDN) and also routes from Denver.
    • Storm Mountain Express Shared: In addition to private, they also have shared shuttle options; reservations must typically be made in advance (at least 2 days ahead).
  • Public / Regional Transit
    • Bustang / Snowstang: Historically, there has been a “Snowstang” seasonal route between Denver and Steamboat. However, current service may vary or be limited, so be sure to check the latest schedules.
  • Rental Car

    If you’re comfortable driving in winter mountain conditions, renting a car gives you flexibility. According to the Steamboat Chamber, the drive from Denver to Steamboat is about 157 miles, taking ~3 hours (depending on snow / traffic). The route is scenic (via I-70 → CO-9 North → US-40 West), but winter conditions can make it more challenging.

Other Local / In-Town Transit

  • Once you’re in Steamboat, there’s a free city bus (Steamboat Springs Transit) that runs around town — including ski area, downtown, lodging, and grocery / shopping areas.
  • Note: Ride-hail services like Uber / Lyft are very limited in Steamboat, especially for airport runs. Several travelers report unreliability and high cost.

Things to Consider / Tips

  • Book Early: Shuttle services (especially shared) often fill up in ski season. The Steamboat Chamber even advises reserving transportation when you book your lodging.
  • Weather Risk: Mountain driving in December can be unpredictable. If you drive, make sure the rental car is equipped for winter (snow tires, chains if needed) and monitor road conditions.
  • Cost vs Convenience: Shared shuttles are cheaper per person but might take longer (multiple stops). Private vans or SUVs are more direct, but cost more — especially if you’re traveling solo or in a small group.
  • Luggage / Gear: Confirm with your shuttle provider about ski-gear policy. Some private shuttles (like Powderhound) explicitly support ski bags and extra luggage.

My Recommendation (for December):

If you’re coming from Denver and want a balance of cost + reliability, a shared shuttle with Ski Town Transportation is likely your best bet. For more comfort or if you have a group / gear, a private van (Storm Mountain Express or Powderhound) is well worth it — especially given winter road conditions. If you’re comfortable driving in snow, renting a car gives you maximum flexibility, but prepare for a mountain drive.

More Steamboat Springs Travel Questions

Popular Destinations

Song Tower
Water City
Maldives
National Museum of Natural History

Popular Travel Questions