Winter Park is the closest major ski resort to Denver International Airport, about 90 miles away. Without traffic the drive takes about 2 hours. On a snowy day or a busy weekend, plan for 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours 45 minutes, and a little more if Berthoud Pass is closed for avalanche work.
The road over Berthoud
Unlike the Summit County resorts, Winter Park isn't reached through the tunnel. From the airport the route follows Peña Boulevard to I-70 west, through the foothills and past Idaho Springs, then leaves the interstate at Empire for US 40 north and the climb over Berthoud Pass.
Berthoud tops out at 11,307 feet. It has grades of 6.3%, tight switchbacks on its southern side, and more than 55 mapped avalanche paths. On a clear day it's one of the most beautiful drives in Colorado; in a storm it asks for real winter experience.
In winter
- Traction Law. The I-70 stretch is part of the Traction Law corridor from September 1 to May 31, and CDOT activates the law on Berthoud Pass in storms.
- Floyd Hill. You share I-70's busiest bottleneck near Idaho Springs, where construction continues through 2029.
- Weekends. Westbound traffic builds on Friday afternoons; eastbound back toward Denver on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.
The I-70 winter driving guide explains each of these in plain words.
Ways to get to Winter Park
Winter Park has more ways in than most resorts, and some of them are excellent.
Winter Park Express. A seasonal ski train from Denver Union Station to the resort base, with fares from $19. The 2026/27 schedule had not been published at the time of writing. If you're already downtown, with light bags and a flexible day, it's a wonderful ride. From the airport, you'd take the A Line to Union Station first.
Home James. A scheduled shuttle from DEN that Winter Park Resort lists among its options.
Amtrak's California Zephyr. One train a day each way, stopping in Fraser, next to Winter Park.
Rental car. Workable if you're comfortable on Berthoud in snow, with tires that meet the Traction Law.
Private car. Straight from the DEN curb to your lodging, no timetable, no transfers, no luggage on trains. Book your ride to Winter Park.
Every ride includes
We track your flight and meet you on arrival, carry the bags and skis, and stop wherever you'd like, for groceries on the way or a coffee before the pass. Child seats are available on request. You'll ride in a luxury full-size SUV (Expedition MAX, Yukon XL, Suburban or similar) for up to six, or an 11-passenger Ford Transit, with a chauffeur experienced on Colorado's mountain passes in every season.
Good to know
Winter Park is on the Ikon Pass. Comparing it with the Summit County resorts? See Colorado ski resorts from Denver. Planning a ski day from a Denver hotel instead? Our day trips from Denver covers the options, including the ski train. Book your ride, or see all airport routes.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Winter Park from Denver airport?
About 90 miles, roughly 2 hours without traffic. Plan for longer on winter weekends and in snow.
Do you have to drive over a mountain pass to get to Winter Park?
Yes. The road goes over Berthoud Pass on US 40, which tops out at 11,307 feet with switchbacks and steep grades.
Is there a train from Denver to Winter Park?
Yes. The seasonal Winter Park Express runs from Denver Union Station to the resort base, with fares from $19. Amtrak's California Zephyr also stops in nearby Fraser once a day each way.
Is Winter Park on the Ikon Pass?
Yes, Winter Park is on the Ikon Pass.
Can Berthoud Pass close?
It can close during storms or for avalanche control. Check COtrip.org before you travel; our chauffeurs watch conditions for you.