1. On-airport Economy lot shuttles
The DIA-operated Economy lots — Pikes Peak, Longs Peak, and Mt. Elbert — all include free shuttle service to the terminal. Shuttles loop the lots and stop at Level 5 Island 4.
- Pikes Peak Shuttle Lot — $10/day; shuttle every 7–10 min; ~10-minute ride to terminal.
- Longs Peak Shuttle Lot — $10/day; shuttle every 7–10 min; ~10-minute ride.
- Mt. Elbert Lot — $15/day; closer-in, shuttle every 7 min; ~5-minute ride.
- 61st & Peña Lot — $8/day; RTD A-Line only (no shuttle); ride the train 8 minutes to terminal.
2. Off-airport parking shuttles
Every off-airport parking operator in Aurora runs a free 24/7 shuttle to the DIA terminal. Shuttles arrive at Level 5 Island 4.
| Operator | Frequency | Ride time |
|---|---|---|
| Canopy | 5–10 min | ~5 min |
| ParkDIA | 8–12 min | ~7 min |
| WallyPark | 10 min | ~7 min |
| Park2Jet | 10–15 min | ~8 min |
| Fine Airport Parking | 10–12 min | ~8 min |
| USAirport Parking | 10–15 min | ~8 min |
| The Parking Spot | 10 min | ~7 min |
| Diamond Airport Parking | 12–15 min | ~10 min |
| Shuttle Park 2 | 10–15 min | ~10 min |
3. Hotel shuttles
Many DIA-area hotels (Westin Denver International, Renaissance, Hyatt Place DIA, Hampton Inn DIA, Holiday Inn Express, etc.) offer free 24-hour shuttle for overnight guests. Schedules vary — some run on-demand, others on a fixed loop. For park-and-stay packages, the shuttle is typically included free. See our park & fly hotels roundup.
4. Mountain shuttles
For ski-area transfers, paid shuttle operators connect DIA to Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper Mountain, Aspen, Steamboat, and other resorts:
- Epic Mountain Express — primary Vail Resorts shuttle, $80–$130 each way.
- Colorado Mountain Express (CME) — Vail/Beaver Creek focused.
- Peak 1 Express — Summit County (Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper).
- Aspen Mountain Express — Aspen/Snowmass.
- Storm Mountain Express — Steamboat.
Most run multiple daily departures during ski season (Nov–April), reduced summer schedule. Book ahead — they sell out on storm days and holidays.
5. RTD A-Line commuter rail
Not technically a shuttle, but the most popular DIA ground transport option: the RTD A-Line train. Union Station to DIA in 37 minutes, $10.50 one-way, every 15 minutes from 3:15am to 1:15am. Stops at 10 intermediate stations including 38th & Blake, 40th & Colorado, Central Park, Peoria, 40th Ave & Airport Blvd, and 61st & Peña. See our A-Line guide.
Where to catch a DIA shuttle
All courtesy shuttles (off-airport parking, hotels, ride-share alternative services) pick up at:
- Level 5 (terminal Level 5), Island 4 — east and west sides.
- Look for signed columns marked with the operator's logo.
- Mountain shuttles typically pick up at Level 5 Island 5.
- RTD A-Line: ride the elevator/escalator down from the terminal to the train station on the lower level.
- Taxis and rideshare have separate dedicated zones (rideshare on Level 5 Island 1 & 2).
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to call the off-airport parking shuttle for pickup?
Usually no — the shuttle loops continuously. Some smaller operators ask you to call from the curb after landing; check your booking confirmation.
How early should I plan for shuttle time at DIA?
Add 30 minutes between when you park and when you reach the TSA checkpoint, accounting for shuttle wait, ride time, and walking. Add 45 minutes during peak travel days.
Are DIA shuttles wheelchair-accessible?
Yes — all on-airport and major off-airport operators have ADA-compliant shuttles. Some smaller operators may need advance notice; check before booking.
Can I bring my dog/pet on the shuttle?
Service animals: yes, always. Pets in carriers: most operators allow this; check operator-specific policies. Large pets without carriers: usually not, but rules vary.