How to Explore Colorado Without a Car: Buses, Trains, and Shuttles

You can explore Colorado without driving — but it takes smart planning. Here’s how to get around using buses, trains, and shuttles.

1. Fly Into the Right Airport

Best car-free entry points:
- Denver International (DEN)
- Colorado Springs (COS)
- Eagle County (EGE, near Vail)

2. Use Bustang for Statewide Travel

Bustang connects:
- Denver ↔ Colorado Springs
- Denver ↔ Fort Collins
- Denver ↔ Glenwood Springs

Fares: $10–$20
Book at ridebustang.com
Wi-Fi, power outlets, on-time

3. Pegasus + Snowstang

Pegasus = mini shuttle to Vail, Frisco, Avon
Snowstang = seasonal weekend shuttle to:
- A-Basin
- Loveland
- Copper
- Steamboat

Departs from Denver Park-and-Rides

4. Take Amtrak (Scenic Option)

Routes:
- California Zephyr (Chicago → San Francisco, through CO)
- Southwest Chief (SE Colorado)

Stops: Denver, Glenwood Springs, Grand Junction

Best for slow scenic travel — not commuters

5. Free Local Shuttles

In mountain towns:
- Breckenridge Free Ride
- Vail in-town bus
- Aspen RFTA buses
- Telluride Galloping Goose

Usually free or very low cost

6. Resort Shuttles from Airports

From DEN or EGE to:
- Aspen
- Vail
- Steamboat

Providers:
- Epic Mountain Express
- Go Alpine

Expect $50–$100 one way. Book ahead.

7. Day Trips Without a Car

- Red Rocks: Concert shuttles from Denver
- Rocky Mountain NP: Summer-only shuttle from Estes Park
- Georgetown Loop Railroad: Scenic train tour

8. Denver Transit Tips

- Light rail (RTD) covers downtown and suburbs
- Free 16th St MallRide
- Airport A Line = $10.50
- E-bikes + scooters available citywide

Stay downtown or in RiNo for walkability.

9. Downsides of Going Car-Free

You’ll miss:
- Remote trailheads
- Scenic byways
- Small towns off the grid

Consider:
- Renting a car for one day via Turo
- Using Zipcar for flexibility

10. Final Tip

Colorado is more transit-friendly than you’d think — especially around ski towns and major cities. With the right combo of buses and trains, you can enjoy the best of the Rockies without touching a steering wheel.