GETTING HEREYour Colorado vacation starts in the mountains.
One good place to begin.Touch down in Denver. Head toward the peaks. Settle in for your first mountain-town dinner. Clear Creek makes a welcoming starting point for your Colorado vacation, with places to stay, explore, and enjoy before continuing farther into the mountains.
Denver International Airport, often called DIA, with the airport code DEN, connects Colorado with cities across the United States and international destinations. From the airport, continue to Clear Creek by rental car, prearranged transportation, or a train-and-bus connection through Denver Union Station.
Driving from DIA generally takes you along Peña Boulevard to I-70 west. From Denver, head west on I-70 toward the mountains. Idaho Springs and Silver Plume sit along the interstate, while Empire is reached via US 40 at Exit 232.Approximate driving distances
Idaho Springs
From Denver - 33 Miles
From DIA - 56 Miles
Empire
From Denver - 42 Miles
From DIA - 65 Miles
Silver Plume
From Denver - 47 miles
From DIA - 70 miles
PARKING
Find your spot. Enjoy a little wandering.
In town
Idaho Springs has paid parking in designated areas. Check posted signs for rates, time limits, and payment instructions. In every community, respect residential spaces, private lots, and signed restrictions.
At trails and attractions
Use designated parking and follow the instructions for your destination. Keep roads, driveways, and emergency access clear. If the lot is full, choose another stop and return another time.
Staying overnight
Ask your host whether parking is included, where to unload, and whether your vehicle will fit. Traveling with an RV, trailer, or several cars? Confirm arrangements before arriving.
SHUTTLES AND TRANSITTake a window seat. Let the journey unfold.
You can travel from DIA to Idaho Springs using the RTD A Line and Bustang West Line, connecting at Denver Union Station. Plan each leg of the journey, including transportation from the bus stop to your lodging.
From DIA to Union Station
Follow signs to the airport Transit Center beneath the Westin hotel and board the A Line toward Union Station. The train journey takes approximately 37 minutes, plus waiting time.
From Union Station to Idaho Springs
Transfer to the westbound Bustang West Line at Gate B19 in the underground bus concourse. Many scheduled journeys to Idaho Springs take about an hour, with arrival at Idaho Street and 13th Avenue. RTD and Bustang require separate fares.
Leave time between connections for collecting luggage, walking between boarding areas, and possible delays. Check your return journey before booking flights.
Traveling with Pegasus
Pegasus also serves Idaho Springs from Union Station, departing at street level at Wewatta Street and 17th Avenue. Its luggage allowance is limited; the operator recommends the West Line for travelers carrying more than a personal item and a set of skis or a snowboard.
Getting around Clear Creek
The free RoundAbout bus connects local communities and regional transportation. Check current stops, operating days, and return times before planning your outing. Confirm transportation separately for lodging and activities beyond the routes.
Prefer a prearranged ride?
Explore private airport transportation and confirm service to your exact destination. Share your flight details, group size, luggage, and any accessibility or child-seat needs when arranging your trip.
WINTER DRIVING AND I-70
A little preparation. A more comfortable arrival.
Mountain weather, weekend traffic, and construction can all affect the drive. Check COtrip before leaving and again before returning. For travel through Floyd Hill, review CDOT’s project updates for construction impacts and planned closures.
Prepare your vehicle
Review Colorado’s current traction and chain requirements before traveling. If you’re renting, confirm the vehicle’s tires and equipment with the rental company. When the Passenger Vehicle Chain Law is activated, every vehicle must use chains or an approved alternative traction device.
Give the journey some room
Pack warm layers, water, snacks, and a phone charger. Allow extra time for activities with a fixed check-in and for your return flight. Follow official closures and detours, and adjust your plans when conditions call for it.