DEN Airport Car Rental Deals Explore Denver with Savings and Freedom

• Introduction
  Welcome to Denver, the Mile High City where urban life meets Rocky Mountain adventure! Picking up a rental car at Denver International Airport (DEN) sets you up for an incredible Colorado journey. At AirportVanRental, we make it easy to find a cheap Denver car rental that fits your needs whether you’re here to ski the slopes, explore national parks, or attend meetings downtown. As a trusted OTA, we partner with multiple rental brands to bring you unbeatable rates and selection. Our Denver page is packed with insider tips and deals so you can drive away confident and excited. Flying into DEN? You’re about 25 miles from downtown with a car, that’s a smooth highway ride of around 30-40 minutes (versus much longer on shuttles or transit). We want you to hit the road hassle-free: secure booking, no hidden fees, free cancellation on most rentals, and pay-at-pickup options. Let’s get you on the road in Denver ready to discover red rock parks, alpine lakes, and city sights on your schedule!
• Freedom to Explore the Rockies: Denver is the gateway to the Rocky Mountains. While the city itself has some transit, you’ll need a car to truly enjoy the region’s outdoor treasures. Renting at DEN means as soon as you land, you can drive to Rocky Mountain National Park, the foothills, or ski resorts like Breckenridge and Vail on your own timetable. Public transport won’t take you to mountain hiking trails or scenic byways but your rental car will. With a car, you can be trekking a mountain trail or photographing alpine lakes just a couple hours after touching down.
• Convenience for a Spread-Out City: Denver’s metro area is expansive. Attractions like Red Rocks Amphitheatre (15 miles west), Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs (70 miles), or the Wild Animal Sanctuary (30 miles northeast) are far easier reached by car. Even within the city, having a car makes it simple to hop between neighborhoods breakfast in LoDo, then a trip to the Denver Zoo, followed by dinner in Cherry Creek. The light rail and buses are improving, but they can’t beat the convenience of point-to-point driving, especially if you have multiple stops or are traveling with family.
• Faster Airport to Downtown & Beyond: Denver International Airport is located about 25 miles outside the city. While there is a train (A Line) to Union Station, it only goes downtown. If your accommodation isn’t right by a station (or you’re staying in suburbs like Aurora, Golden, etc.), you’d end up needing taxis or rideshares. With a rental car, you can go directly to your hotel or Airbnb no transfers, no waiting. Plus, if you plan to head straight to the mountains from the airport (many travelers do), a car is indispensable you can bypass downtown entirely and be on I-70 West toward the Rockies in no time.
• Flexibility in Unpredictable Weather: Colorado weather can change on a dime. A sunny morning can become a snowy afternoon in winter. With your own car, you have the flexibility to adjust leave early to beat a storm or take an alternate route. No worrying if a bus route is delayed or a shuttle is canceled. Also, if you’re here during ski season, having a car with potentially 4x4/AWD gives you the confidence to handle a snowy drive (and we offer plenty of those vehicles). We also provide tips for driving in winter conditions (see below). Locals often say, “If you don’t like the weather, wait 10 minutes.” With a rental, if a surprise hail storm hits or sudden rain, you’re safely sheltered and can carry on when it passes.
• Cost-Effective for Groups & Gear: Traveling with friends or family? Renting a car can be much more cost-effective than buying multiple shuttle or train tickets. Denver’s attractions are spread out, and rideshare fares to places like Boulder or Estes Park can be very high. By splitting the cost of a rental and gas, your group can save money. Plus, you have room for all your gear whether that’s ski equipment, camping gear, or just luggage. No need to lug everything on public transportation or be limited in what you bring. Throw it all in the trunk/SUV and go! Many Denver visitors pack hiking boots, skis, etc. a rental car is like having your own personal adventure-mobile ready to carry you and your stuff wherever the trail leads.

Top Car Rental Deals at DEN (Denver Airport)

Denver is a popular rental location, which means lots of competition and great deals. Here are some sample deals by vehicle type, based on recent searches. Actual rates will depend on your dates search above for the latest, but these give a sense of the affordable prices you can find:

• Mid-Size Car from $19/day.Example: Toyota Corolla or similar. Perfect for solo travelers or couples sticking mostly to city sights. Easy to park in downtown Denver and very fuel-efficient for those drives out to Boulder or Fort Collins.
• Standard SUV (AWD) from $35/day.Example: Subaru Outback or Nissan Rogue with All-Wheel Drive. Ideal if you’re heading into the mountains or visiting in winter. You’ll appreciate the added traction on snowy roads and the cargo space for skis or hiking gear. A versatile choice that balances city driving and alpine adventures.
• Minivan from $45/day.Example: Chrysler Pacifica or Dodge Grand Caravan. Seats 7 comfortably. Great for families or groups plenty of room for luggage, and sliding doors for easy entry (helpful in tight parking spots or when loading kids). If you’re doing a road trip to national parks or coming for a sports tournament with the team, a minivan is the way to go.
• 4x4 Pickup Truck from $50/day.Example: Ford F-150 Crew Cab or similar. Planning some off-road camping, moving cargo, or you just like riding high up? A pickup gives you serious capability. Many come with 4x4, which is useful if you’re heading to trailheads down dirt roads or visiting during a snowstorm. Plus, you’ll look like a true Coloradoan behind the wheel of a truck.

(All rates above exclude taxes/fees. Denver rentals will have state and local taxes, plus an airport concession fee if renting at DEN roughly 10-15% total in extra charges, which we always show upfront. Note: Demand can spike during ski season (December–March) and summer months, so booking early is smart. The “from” prices are often found in off-peak times or with advance bookings. Even during high season, AirportVanRental’s comparison will find you the best available deal we negotiate special rates and promo codes regularly. And remember, most Denver rentals come with unlimited miles, so you can take that Rocky Mountain road trip without worry.)

Driving in Denver: What to Know

Driving in Denver is generally a pleasant experience the city is modern and roads are well-maintained but you should be prepared for a mix of urban and mountain driving if you plan to explore. Here are key driving tips:

• City Traffic & Grid Layout: Downtown Denver’s streets are a mix of a grid and some diagonal cuts. The city was originally laid out parallel to the South Platte River, so downtown isn’t perfectly north-south some intersections are at odd angles. Pay attention to signage, especially at those diagonal intersections like Broadway and Colfax. Overall, traffic in Denver is moderate compared to cities like LA or Chicago. Typical rush hour is 7–9 AM and 4–6 PM on weekdays. Expect slowdowns on I-25 (which runs north-south through Denver) and I-70 (east-west, passing just north of downtown) during those times. Also, I-25 through downtown is known as the “central corridor” and can bottleneck near the Broncos’ stadium on game days. In the city, many streets have bike lanes and pedestrians, particularly around LoDo and Capitol Hill, so drive cautiously and yield to people crossing. Parking downtown: meters usually run until 10 PM Mon-Sat (free on Sundays). You can use credit cards or the ParkDenver app at meters. If you’re going to a Rockies baseball game or a show, consider one of the many parking garages they’re plentiful and prices are reasonable (around $7–$15 evenings).
• Mountain Driving & I-70: If you plan to drive west into the mountains (and you should, it’s gorgeous!), be ready for some different driving conditions. I-70 west of Denver is the main route into the Rockies. It’s a beautiful highway but has steep grades and can get very congested on weekends (everyone heading to ski or hike). In winter, I-70 traffic heading to resorts is heavy Friday afternoons (eastbound) and Saturday mornings (westbound), and the reverse (west to Denver) on Sunday afternoons. Adjust your schedule if possible (leaving super early or later to avoid the peak). As you climb into the mountains, you’ll be going from 5,280 ft in Denver to over 11,000 ft at the Eisenhower Tunnel your engine might feel a bit less powerful due to altitude, that’s normal. Stay in the right lane if you’re going slower, and be patient behind trucks on steep climbs. Use lower gears when descending to avoid overheating your brakes. And always keep an eye on weather even in April, a sunny Denver day can mean a surprise snowstorm at higher elevations.
• Winter Driving & Traction Laws: Denver itself gets snow in winter, but the sun usually melts it within a day or two on main roads. However, if you’re here between October and April and plan to drive in the mountains, be prepared for winter conditions. Colorado has a Traction Law (Code 15) that can go into effect on I-70 and other key routes during snowstorms. This law requires your vehicle to have either 4WD/AWD or winter tires (or at least all-season tires with good tread, 3/16” depth) otherwise you need to carry chains. All of AirportVanRental’s Denver partners maintain their cars with all-season tires at minimum. If you know you’ll be in snowy areas, we recommend renting an AWD SUV we have plenty available and we highlight those in search results. Rental cars generally do not come with separate snow chains, and most agencies don’t permit putting chains on due to potential damage. The good news is, Colorado does an excellent job plowing and salting I-70 and other major roads quickly. If conditions are severe, consider waiting a bit until plows have cleared. Also note: Denver uses a mixture of sand and liquid deicer on roads your car may get dirty quickly after a snow; a quick rinse at a gas station car wash can help visibility (and we don’t charge for normal dirt, don’t worry!). Bottom line: check the weather, enable that AWD if you have it, and drive slower in snow/ice. Leave extra distance between cars stopping can take much longer on slick roads.
• Toll Roads (E-470 & Express Lanes): The Denver area has one major toll road: E-470, which is a beltway running along the eastern outskirts of the city (convenient for going from south suburbs to the airport, for example). It’s entirely electronic tolling (no booths). If you take E-470 in your rental, the toll cameras will register the car. Either your rental’s toll program will bill you or the toll authority will send the bill to the rental company (who then charges you with an admin fee). We advise opting into the toll program if you expect to use E-470 or the express lanes. Speaking of express lanes: certain stretches of I-25 and I-70 in Denver have optional Express Toll lanes (for instance, on I-70 east of downtown, and I-25 north of downtown and down to DTC). These let you bypass traffic for a variable toll. Rental cars can use them, but again, you’ll be billed via the license plate. If you’re not in a rush, you can always stay in the free lanes. Regular I-25 and I-70 lanes are free. One more note: Pearl Street Mall in Boulder… just kidding, no toll there just making sure you’re paying attention!
• Altitude & Health: This isn’t exactly a driving tip, but visitors should remember Denver is at 5,280 feet elevation. You might tire a bit more quickly or get dehydrated faster. How does that affect driving? Well, you might feel drowsy or light-headed if you’re not acclimated, so drink water and take it easy the first day. If you drive up into the mountains (8,000+ feet), take breaks if you feel woozy. Also, your snacks might explode seriously, sealed bags of chips can pop at high altitude, so don’t be startled by a loud bang in the car if you brought some from sea level! Keep your hydration up and you’ll be fine.
• Wildlife on Roads: In mountain and rural areas around Colorado, it’s not uncommon to encounter wildlife near the roadway, especially at dawn or dusk. Deer, elk, and even moose can wander onto highways. Hitting one can be dangerous (for you and the animal). If you’re driving in the foothills or national park areas, use caution in the early morning or evening. Signs will often indicate high wildlife crossing zones. If you see one deer, assume more may be nearby. In summer, also watch for smaller critters like foxes or raccoons at night. In the city of Denver itself, you’re more likely to just see squirrels and maybe the occasional coyote at night in outskirts nothing major. Just something to be aware of when you venture out into Colorado’s gorgeous natural areas.

Overall, driving in Denver and Colorado is incredibly rewarding the scenery is stunning and roads are well-marked. By renting a car, you’ll get to experience scenic mountain byways, charming small towns, and all the freedom of the open road. Take it easy if you’re not used to winter or altitude, and soon you’ll see why many of us love a “Sunday drive” in the Rockies. Happy motoring!

Road Trips from Denver

Denver is a launching pad to some of the country’s most breathtaking road trips. Here are three outstanding itineraries from Denver each offering a different taste of Colorado (and beyond):

• Alpine Escape: Denver to Rocky Mountain National Park~65 miles to Estes Park (1.5–2 hours) Great as a day trip or overnight.
  Route: Drive north from Denver on US-36 W through Boulder (worth a stop) to Estes Park, the gateway town to Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). From Estes Park, enter RMNP via the Beaver Meadows entrance. In summer, you can drive across the park on the famous Trail Ridge Road (US-34) all the way to Grand Lake on the west side, then loop back to Denver via Granby and I-70, or simply return to Estes Park and Denver the way you came. In winter, Trail Ridge Road is closed at high elevations, so you’ll explore the eastern side of the park and then head back the same way.
  
  

Highlights:Estes Park is a quaint mountain town check out the historic Stanley Hotel (Stephen King fans will recognize it from The Shining inspiration). As you enter RMNP, get ready for towering peaks and likely some wildlife sightings herds of elk often graze in the meadows (especially in fall). Trail Ridge Road is one of the highest continuous paved roads in the world, cresting at 12,183 feet you’ll literally drive above the treeline, with jaw-dropping views of snow-capped peaks. Stop at viewpoints like Rainbow Curve and Forest Canyon. At the Alpine Visitor Center (over 11,000 ft up), you can step out (bundle up it can be 30°F cooler up there) and take in panoramic vistas. On the west side of the park, the scenery transitions to lush forests around Grand Lake, a lovely mountain lake town. Even if you don’t go all the way across, the Bear Lake Road area on the east side is a must: drive or shuttle to Bear Lake, a short walk from the parking lot yields a postcard-perfect alpine lake view with peaks behind it. Numerous trailheads (Alberta Falls, Dream Lake) start here if you feel like hiking. In summer, wildflowers and blue skies; in autumn, golden aspens and elk bugling; in winter, a snowy wonderland it’s always magical.

Tips:Timed Entry Permit From late May to mid-October, RMNP requires a reservation to enter during peak hours. Check recreation.gov to secure a timed entry permit in advance (or plan to arrive very early or late in the day when it’s not required). In Estes Park, grab some taffy or ice cream on the Riverwalk downtown, and fill up your gas tank (no fuel in the national park). Weather can change quickly at high altitude afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, and snow can fall in shoulder seasons so start early and watch the skies. Bring layers; even in August, it can be 50°F (10°C) up on Trail Ridge Road while Denver is 85°F (29°C). Drive cautiously on Trail Ridge’s curves and be patient behind slow sightseers everyone is enjoying the view. If you visit in late September, you’ll catch the aspens turning brilliant gold and the elk mating season (you’ll hear their eerie bugling calls at dusk). It’s an easy drive back to Denver in the evening but you’ll sleep well after all the fresh mountain air!

• From Peaks to Arches: Denver to Moab (Arches & Canyonlands National Parks)~350 miles to Moab, UT (5.5–6 hours) Plan 3–5 days to fully enjoy.
  Route: Head west on I-70 from Denver straight across the Rockies into Utah. This drive alone is an adventure you’ll pass ski resorts, high mountain passes, and dramatic canyons. Cross into Utah and continue to the Moab area via US-191 S from I-70. Moab is the gateway town for both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park (Island in the Sky district).
  
  

Highlights: The journey on I-70 is one of America’s most scenic interstates. Soon after leaving Denver, you’ll climb up through the Rockies you’ll go through the Eisenhower Tunnel under the Continental Divide (at over 11,000 feet). Consider a pit stop in Breckenridge or Vail for a taste of Colorado ski towns (even in summer they’re fun for a lunch or gondola ride). Further west, drive through Glenwood Canyon a stunning stretch where the highway curves along the Colorado River between towering canyon walls. You might stop at Glenwood Springs (about 2.5 hours from Denver) for a soak in the famous hot springs pool or to grab lunch in this historic town. As you approach Grand Junction, the landscape shifts to high desert. A worthwhile short detour is the Colorado National Monument a scenic Rim Rock Drive just outside Grand Junction that offers red rock canyons and epic vistas reminiscent of a mini Grand Canyon. Crossing into Utah, you’ll see lonely mesas and wide-open spaces. Moab, Utah (approx 6 hours from Denver) is an outdoor recreation hub. Just 5 miles north of town is Arches National Park, home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches including the famous Delicate Arch (the one on Utah’s license plate). Spend at least a full day in Arches drive the park road to see Balanced Rock, Devil’s Garden, and take the 3-mile roundtrip hike to Delicate Arch for an unforgettable sunset. 30 miles from Moab is Canyonlands National Park (Island in the Sky) don’t miss the easy walk to Mesa Arch (especially at sunrise) and viewpoints like Grand View Point, which overlook a 1,000-foot deep canyon carved by the Green and Colorado Rivers. It’s like a more rugged Grand Canyon without the crowds. After canyon country, you can drive back or, if time allows, swing south to see more Utah wonders (Monument Valley, etc.) before looping back.

Tips: This is a longer road trip, so plan your overnights. Some choose to stay in Grand Junction/Fruita one night, then Moab for a couple nights. Summer heat in Moab is intense (100°F+ / 38°C), so if you go June–August, do park activities in early morning or late afternoon and hydrate constantly. Spring and fall are ideal in Utah but very popular book Moab accommodations well in advance. Entrance fees: Arches and Canyonlands each have entrance fees (about $30 each per vehicle) if you’re visiting multiple parks, consider a National Park Annual Pass. In winter, the parks are quieter but occasional snow can make trails slick (the desert does get some snow). Driving back to Denver, you can return the way you came or for a change, go from Moab to Durango, CO and over the San Juan Mountains (a longer southern route with its own amazing scenery). But that’s another trip! Watch your gas on I-70 there are stretches, especially in Utah, with 50+ miles between services. There’s a notable gas stop at Green River, UT often the last chance before Moab. Lastly, marvel at the stars Moab has some of the darkest skies, so pull over at night (in a safe spot) and enjoy Milky Way views that city-dwellers never see. This road trip truly goes from snow-capped peaks to red rock arches few drives in the world offer such variety in one go.

• Great Plains to Badlands: Denver to Mount Rushmore & South Dakota’s Black Hills~360 miles to Mount Rushmore (6–7 hours) Allow 4–5 days round-trip to see it all.
  Route: Head north from Denver on I-25 through Cheyenne, Wyoming (100 miles). Continue north into the wide-open plains of eastern Wyoming via US-18/US-85 toward the Black Hills region of South Dakota. Aim for Rapid City, SD as a base (that’s near Mount Rushmore and Badlands). Key stops: Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Badlands National Park, and Custer State Park are all in the vicinity.
  
  

Highlights: This trip showcases a different kind of scenery. After leaving the urban Front Range, you’ll experience the quiet of the Great Plains. Cheyenne, Wyoming’s capital, is a small western city maybe stop for a photo with the big cowboy boot statues around town or a bite of chicken-fried steak. As you drive further, you might detour to see iconic Americana like Carhenge in Alliance, Nebraska (if you go slightly east it’s a Stonehenge made of cars, quirky but memorable). Crossing into South Dakota, the landscape changes as the Black Hills rise from the plains. Mount Rushmore is a must-see gaze up at the 60-foot carved faces of Washington, Jefferson, Teddy Roosevelt, and Lincoln set in stone. Nearby, the Crazy Horse Memorial is an impressive massive carving in progress honoring Lakota leader Crazy Horse worth a visit for the scale and the Native American history museum. Custer State Park offers wonderful wildlife viewing drive the Wildlife Loop Road and you’re likely to encounter bison herds, pronghorn antelope, wild burros (donkeys) that might poke their heads in your car for snacks, and more. The park’s Needles Highway is a stunning drive through granite spires (if you have a smaller car the tunnels are very narrow!). Badlands National Park is about an hour east of Rapid City an otherworldly landscape of jagged clay spires and canyons striped in colorful layers. Drive the Badlands Loop Road for multiple overlooks, and consider a hike like the Door Trail (easy boardwalk) or Notch Trail (more adventurous) to immerse yourself in this semi-arid wonder. Don’t miss the famous Wall Drug store in Wall, SD near Badlands a gigantic roadside attraction mall that started as a tiny drugstore, offering free ice water and 5¢ coffee (a true Americana experience).

Tips: This is a road trip where you’ll cover a lot of miles fortunately, the highways are open and uncongested. Keep an eye on fuel; small towns can be 50+ miles apart in the High Plains. Summers in the Black Hills are delightful (80s°F, occasional thunderstorms). Winter can be very cold and snowy up there, some tourist facilities close in off-season, so late spring through early fall is best. When visiting Mount Rushmore, the evening Lighting Ceremony (in summer) is a moving experience they light up the faces and often have a ranger talk or veterans’ salute. For Badlands, sunrise or sunset yields incredible colors on the rock formations. Watch for wildlife on roads, especially at dusk deer and bison can appear suddenly. In Custer State Park, do not approach bison on foot (they may look docile but can charge). Drive slow and enjoy the moment if they block the road it’s part of the adventure! On your way back, consider swinging through Wind Cave National Park (just south of Custer) if caves intrigue you it’s one of the world’s longest cave systems and has interesting tours. This trip is a journey into America’s heartland, rich with history, nature, and those “I can’t believe we drove from mountains to presidents carved in rock” moments. You’ll return to Denver with a deeper appreciation of the vastness and variety of the American landscape.

Quick-Reference Info Box: Denver Car Rental Key Facts

• Airport Rental Center: Denver International Airport (DEN) doesn’t have a single consolidated rental center; instead, all rental companies operate out of their own facilities on airport property (just outside the main terminal loop). Free shuttles from Jeppesen Terminal will take you to your car look for signs to rental car shuttles at Island 4 outside baggage claim. It’s a quick 5-10 min ride. When returning, follow signs for “Rental Car Return” on Peña Boulevard. Off-airport: There are also rental offices in Downtown Denver and at Union Station if you need to rent after spending time in the city.
• Average Rates: Economy cars ~$25/day in off-peak, $40+ in peak; Standard sedan ~$35-50/day; SUVs ~$50-80/day (higher for 4WD/AWD and larger models); Minivans ~$60-90/day. Peak times: Summer (June-Aug) and ski season holidays (Christmas/New Year’s, President’s Day) see higher prices sometimes double the off-peak. Spring and fall can have great deals. Always book early for holiday weekends (cars can sell out during major events like January’s National Western Stock Show or autumn leaf-peeping season).
• Driving in Denver: Drive on the right. City speed limits are typically 25–30 mph on streets, 55–65 mph on urban freeways. Denver drivers are generally polite but expect some fast drivers on open highways. Rush hour traffic downtown isn’t too bad compared to bigger metros, but I-25 and I-70 can get congested at peak times. In winter, watch for ice bridges freeze first. In the mountains, go slow on curves and use pull-outs to let faster cars pass if you’re enjoying the scenery.
• Gas & Fuel: Regular unleaded is usually 85 octane in Denver (due to altitude, 85 here equates to 87 at sea level). Most cars run fine on 85 in Colorado; premium (91 octane) is needed only for high-performance engines. Gas prices are around the national average or slightly below. In mid-2025, Denver’s around $3.50/gallon for regular. Plenty of gas stations in the city and suburbs; fewer in the mountains so fill up before heading into remote areas. Near DEN airport, you’ll find gas stations on Tower Road and Peña Blvd (prices there can be a bit higher due to convenience). Remember Colorado is self-serve fill it up yourself and save that receipt if your rental agreement requests proof of refueling upon return.
• Tolls: Denver’s main tollway is E-470 (loops east of the city to the airport). There are also express toll lanes on portions of I-25 and I-70. No cash is accepted it’s all electronic. If you use them, the car’s license plate will be charged. It’s easiest to use your rental’s toll program to avoid separate bills. Typical toll on E-470 from downtown to DEN is about $5-7. You can avoid tolls by using I-225 or I-70 instead of E-470 (adds a bit of time). Downtown, no tolls at all. If you get on a toll by accident, don’t worry just let it be billed. Colorado toll authorities allow online payment, but rental plates may not be accessible to pay manually. We’ll help you sort it out if needed.
• Parking: Downtown Denver: street parking runs ~$2 per hour; many streets use the ParkDenver app or meters. After 6 PM, some meters become free (check signs), and Sundays/holidays are often free. Parking garages downtown cost around $15–$20 for evening/event parking, $25+ for full day. Neighborhoods like Cherry Creek or Highlands have mix of free and permit parking read the signs to avoid tickets. At DEN Airport, if you need to park a rental short-term, on-site garages are $7/hour or $30/day, economy lots $18/day. Around tourist spots: Red Rocks Amphitheatre parking is free for shows (arrive early); Buffalo Bill Museum on Lookout Mountain free parking; Rocky Mountain National Park free parking but lots fill early, plan accordingly. In winter, ski resort parking varies some resorts have free lots with shuttles, others charge $20+. If you’re overnighting in mountain towns, check if your lodge has free parking. Tip: Downtown Denver has some free parking on the outskirts for example, near the Capitol on weekends or certain residential streets a few blocks from busy areas. Use caution and always check signage (Denver will ticket/tow for blocking driveways, hydrants, etc., as expected).
• Driving Laws & Safety: Colorado is a hands-free state when it comes to texting you cannot text and drive (it’s illegal and dangerous). Talking on a handheld phone is legal for adults, but not recommended; better to use hands-free mode. Seat belts are required for all front seat passengers and minors. Marijuana is legal in Colorado for adults, but open container laws apply to weed similar to alcohol you cannot consume it while driving or have it accessible (keep it sealed in the trunk). And of course, DUI laws apply to driving under the influence of any substance don’t do it. At higher elevations, watch for weather changes Colorado does a good job with road signage, so if a big storm or closure is ahead, you’ll often see electronic signs giving warnings. Lastly, chain laws for truckers and traction laws for all vehicles can be enacted during big snowstorms (listen to 1600 AM or 850 AM on the radio for highway advisory notices when driving in mountains, or check CDOT’s Cotrip website). If you’re renting an AWD and have decent tires, you’ll be set. Our support line is open 24/7 if you have any road-related questions during your rental we’re here to help you travel safely!
• Alternative Transport: Denver has decent public transport within the metro area the A Line train connects DEN Airport to Union Station downtown in about 37 minutes (fare ~$10.50). Light rail lines reach suburbs like Littleton, Golden, and Aurora. However, they won’t take you to mountain towns or most tourist sites outside downtown. Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) are readily available in the city and even to Boulder or Colorado Springs, but surge pricing can make long trips pricey. If you’re doing a day trip to, say, Estes Park, a rental car is far more economical. There are also regional shuttles (like to ski areas), but they run on fixed schedules. In short: you can use a mix maybe take the train downtown for a no-car day at museums, but for the rest of your trip a rental car will give you the real freedom to roam. And unlike some cities, Denver has plenty of parking and relatively forgiving traffic, so self-driving is quite traveler-friendly. Enjoy the flexibility!
• Seasonal Must-Knows:Winter (Dec–Mar): Snowstorms can happen Denver is pretty quick to clear main roads, but if there’s a big blizzard, consider staying put until plows are out. The sun melts snow fast here (300 days of sunshine!). Pack an ice scraper (most rentals include one). If you rent from us in winter, we’ll remind you of traction laws and give tips like carry some sand or kitty litter for traction if you venture off-grid (or you can always call us if you need assistance). Summer (Jun–Aug): Prime road trip season, but also construction season watch for orange cones on highways, especially I-70 (they often do repairs in summer). Never leave kids or pets in the car unattended high altitude sun can heat a car quickly. Fall (Sep–Oct): Gorgeous driving fall foliage peaks mid-late September in the mountains (aspens turn gold). A popular drive is up the Peak-to-Peak Scenic Byway or Kenosha Pass for leaves. Just be prepared for cooler nights. Spring (Apr–May): Unpredictable could be sunny 70°F or surprise snow flurries. If visiting in spring, layering is key. Always keep an eye on weather forecasts if heading into the high country. Regardless of season, Colorado’s beauty will unfold mile by mile with a car, you have a front-row seat to it all!