Traveling to Colorado by Plane: What You Need to Know
Planning a trip to Colorado? Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to get here—especially if you’re coming from out of state. In this quick guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to arrive by air, explore the state’s airports, and understand why having a rental car is essential if you truly want to experience all that Colorado has to offer.
Arriving at Denver International Airport (DEN)
Most visitors fly into Denver International Airport (DEN), one of the busiest airports in the U.S. It offers nonstop service to over 230 destinations, including international cities and nearly every major U.S. airport.
DEN is located about 25 miles from downtown Denver and serves as the perfect launch point for trips across the state. Whether you’re heading west to the mountains, south to Colorado Springs, or north to Fort Collins, it’s your most versatile entry point.
💡 Pro Tip: Flights into Denver tend to be more frequent and affordable than into regional airports.
🛩️ Other Airports in Colorado
If you’re headed to a specific mountain destination—or want to avoid the drive from Denver—you’ve got options. These regional airports offer commercial service (some seasonal), often with connections from major hubs:
Colorado Springs Airport (COS) – A smaller alternative to DEN, with domestic flights.
Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) – Minutes from downtown Aspen; expect small planes and scenic landings.
Eagle County Airport (EGE) – Closest to Vail and Beaver Creek, especially in ski season.
Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) – Best for Telluride and southwestern Colorado.
Durango–La Plata County Airport (DRO) – Ideal for Four Corners travel.
Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) – Western slope access.
Gunnison–Crested Butte Regional Airport (GUC) – For Crested Butte visitors.
Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN) – Convenient for Steamboat Springs.
🚗 Do You Need a Rental Car in Colorado? (Yes!)
In a word: yes. Colorado is made for road trips. While some towns offer shuttles and public transit, the real magic lies in exploring the open roads, scenic byways, and hidden gems you won’t find on a tour bus.
Whether you’re driving through mountain passes, stopping at trailheads, or hopping between small towns, a rental car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Want to visit Rocky Mountain National Park, Hanging Lake, or the San Juan Skyway? You’ll need a car.
Planning a ski trip? A 4WD rental will help with snow-packed roads.
Looking for hot springs, ghost towns, or fall foliage routes? A car makes it easy.
Final Thoughts
Flying into Colorado is easy—but exploring it fully takes wheels. Whether you’re landing in Denver or a cozy mountain airstrip, a rental car opens the door to the real Colorado: wide-open spaces, hidden trails, and unforgettable road-trip moments.