marilynb7

How is the drive from Steamboat Springs to Denver Airport and how long does it take. Our flight leaves Denver at 5:00 p.m. and we want to be at the airport no later than 2:30 to return car. It has been over 20 years since we made this drive. The map says to take I25 to Fort Collins and then down to Denver. We have never gone this way. Is it better?? Thanks for the info. Any recommendations on where to stay in Steamboat. We will only be there 2 nights coming in from Jackson.

Gretchen

What time of year? I think you must have entered something wrong to bring Fort collins in the mix. We haven't really driven from Steamboat direct to Denver when we've been, but it would seem you take Route 40 out of Steamboat,to route 9 to I70 to Denver. It's a pretty easy drive down to I70. And my recollection is that it is amazingly "flat".
We have often driven the last part (i70) and it is 1.5 hours.
Depends on the day and the time of year and the weather always.
I always advise allowing at least 2hours from the time you check your luggage to get to the gate in DIA. It can be a zoo--or a snooze, but you never know.

abram

I agree with the 9 to 40 to I70 route. It's under 160 miles, and should take about 3 hours--in good weather. In a winter snowstorm, well, that's a whole other story.

Nelson

Yes, all things being equal that would be the best route. Three hours is cutting it close in my book however.

I'd leave Steamboat early (8:00-ish). Then presuming you make it in normal time stop in downtown Denver's Larimer Square for some final sightseeing and/or a quick meal before driving the final leg to DIA. In event of traffic problems this still gives you margin to make your flight.

Gretchen

Actually I could give you a really good noodle restaurant just off Route 6 for a great lunch, and not getting into Denver before going to DIA.

Gretchen

Or eat in Idaho Springs.

Nelson

P.S. Check this site when you are in Steamboat:
http://www.cotrip.org/home.htm
http://www.cotrip.org/roadConditions.htm
http://www.cotrip.org/speed.htm

Colorado Department of Travel, will show current and planned road closures. Last year when we left Steamboat in early July after the balloon festival there was flagman construction on Route 40 that delayed us over an hour. Turned out it was a gorgeous morning with cloud sitting in the valleys, so we just shut off the engine, walked around and took some photos while waiting.

But it would have been high stress if we were cutting it close to make a flight in DIA.

marilynb7

thank everyone so much. you have given us really great advice and were such a tremendous help.