Keystone is one of the easiest big resorts to reach from Denver International Airport: about 98 miles, and about 2 hours 10 minutes without traffic. On a peak winter weekend or a snowy day, plan for 3 to 4 hours. It's a favorite for families, and families are exactly who a private car is built for.
The route in brief
- Peña Boulevard from the terminal to I-70
- I-70 west through the foothills, Idaho Springs and Georgetown
- The Eisenhower–Johnson Tunnel, the highest point on the Interstate system at its west portal
- Exit 205 at Silverthorne and Dillon
- US 6 east for the last few miles to Keystone
Arapahoe Basin is just up the same road, so Keystone stays make A-Basin days easy.
What changes in winter
The whole I-70 stretch is part of Colorado's Traction Law corridor from September 1 to May 31. When it's active, vehicles need tires with at least 3/16 inch of tread rated for snow, or chains or an approved device.
Two things are specific to Keystone. First, Loveland Pass on US 6 is the high road over the Divide that vehicles carrying hazardous materials must use instead of the tunnel; you won't normally cross it, but it can matter on days when the tunnel is disrupted. Second, on busy afternoons CDOT meters the eastbound on-ramp at Silverthorne, which you'll meet on the way back to the airport.
The rest of the pattern is the usual one: westbound traffic on Friday afternoons, eastbound on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, and Floyd Hill construction east of Idaho Springs through 2029. Our I-70 winter driving guide has the details.
Comparing the options
Shared shuttle. Epic Mountain Express serves Keystone from DEN with shared and private service. Shared vans run on a timetable and drop other guests on the way.
Snowstang. CDOT's weekend ski bus runs from Denver to A-Basin, next door to Keystone, in season. It leaves from Denver, not the airport, and seats aren't reserved, so it suits a day of skiing better than an arrival with luggage.
Rental car. Fine for confident winter drivers, but check that the tires meet the Traction Law before you leave the lot.
Private car. No timetable, no other stops, and space for skis, boards, strollers and the grocery run. It's what we do. Book your ride to Keystone.
Included with every ride
- Flight tracking, so a delay never leaves you stranded or rushing
- Meet and greet when you land
- Door-to-door service to your lodge, condo or home in Keystone
- Help with all luggage and ski gear
- Stops on request, like a grocery store in Dillon or Silverthorne
- Child seats on request
- Chauffeurs experienced on the I-70 mountain corridor in winter
- Your pick of a luxury full-size SUV for up to six (Expedition MAX, Yukon XL, Suburban or similar) or an 11-passenger Ford Transit
Before you go
Keystone is on the Epic Pass. If your group is choosing between resorts, our guide to Colorado ski resorts from Denver compares them by pass and drive time. For the trip home, plan around the Sunday afternoon rush, or book your return for a weekday. All our routes are on the Denver airport transportation page.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Keystone from Denver airport?
About 98 miles, roughly 2 hours 10 minutes without traffic.
How long does it take to get to Keystone in winter?
Plan for 3 to 4 hours on a busy weekend or in snow. Midweek, with dry roads, it's close to the no-traffic time.
Is Keystone on the Epic or Ikon Pass?
Keystone is on the Epic Pass. Arapahoe Basin, next door, is on the Ikon Pass.
Do you have to drive over Loveland Pass to get to Keystone?
Normally no. The usual route goes through the Eisenhower–Johnson Tunnel and then east on US 6 from Dillon. Loveland Pass is the route for hazardous-materials vehicles.
Can you fit skis and luggage for a family of six?
Yes. A full-size SUV carries up to six passengers; with lots of gear, we'll suggest the 11-passenger Ford Transit.