Overview – Denver to Boulder by Train or Public Transport
Many travelers planning a trip between Denver and Boulder often ask if there is a direct train service connecting the two cities. While Denver has a major rail hub at Denver Union Station, there is currently no direct passenger train running from Denver to Boulder. Instead, public transportation in the Denver–Boulder metro area is mainly provided by the Regional Transportation District (RTD), which operates frequent and reliable bus services.
For most visitors and locals, RTD buses are the easiest and most practical way to travel between Denver and Boulder without a car. Buses run regularly from downtown Denver and from Denver International Airport, making it convenient whether you are staying near Union Station or arriving by flight. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the route, and covers a distance of roughly 40–45 kilometers (25–28 miles).
Overall, even though a direct train is not available, public transport between Denver and Boulder is considered straightforward, affordable, and well-connected, making it a popular option for commuters, students, and visitors alike.
Is There a Direct Train from Denver to Boulder?
One of the most common questions travelers ask is whether there is a direct train from Denver to Boulder. Despite Denver being home to a major rail hub at Denver Union Station, there is no direct passenger train service that runs between Denver and Boulder. Amtrak trains serve Denver Union Station, but they do not continue on to Boulder.
Instead, travel between the two cities is handled by the regional public transportation network operated by Regional Transportation District (RTD). RTD provides frequent bus services that connect downtown Denver, Union Station, and Denver International Airport with multiple stops in Boulder. For this reason, buses are considered the primary and most reliable public transport option for this route.
Even though there is no train, the connection is widely described as easy and straightforward, and most travelers find that buses fully meet their needs for both convenience and cost.
| Transport option | Direct service | Typical travel time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger train | No | Not available | No direct or indirect Amtrak train to Boulder |
| RTD bus | Yes | About 45 minutes | Most common and practical option |
| Car | Yes | About 30–35 minutes | Depends on traffic conditions |
| Taxi / rideshare | Yes | About 30–35 minutes | Faster but more expensive |
Best Way to Travel from Denver to Boulder (Train vs Bus)
When comparing the best way to travel from Denver to Boulder, most travelers quickly find that buses are the most practical option. Although Denver has a major rail hub at Denver Union Station, there is no passenger train service continuing on to Boulder. As a result, public transport between the two cities relies on regional bus connections rather than rail.
The Regional Transportation District (RTD) operates frequent bus services linking downtown Denver, Union Station, and Denver International Airport with Boulder. These buses are widely considered the best and easiest way to make the trip without a car. Services run throughout the day, tickets are affordable, and travel times are generally consistent. For most people, taking the bus offers the same convenience they would expect from a train on a short-distance route.
Driving is faster in ideal traffic conditions, but parking in Boulder can be limited and costly. Taxis and rideshares are available but are significantly more expensive than public transport, making them less attractive for budget-conscious travelers.
| Mode of transport | Average duration | Typical cost | Availability | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RTD bus | Around 45 minutes | Low | Frequent, all day | Most travelers, commuters, visitors |
| Passenger train | Not available | — | No service | Not an option |
| Car | 30–35 minutes | Fuel + parking | Anytime | Flexible schedules |
| Taxi / rideshare | 30–35 minutes | High | On demand | Convenience over cost |
Overall, while many people search for a train from Denver to Boulder, the RTD bus is the clear alternative. It offers a balance of cost, reliability, and ease of use, making it the preferred choice for traveling between the two cities.
Denver Union Station to Boulder
Traveling from Denver Union Station to Boulder is straightforward using public transportation. Union Station is the main transit hub in downtown Denver and serves as the primary departure point for regional connections. While Amtrak trains arrive and depart from Union Station, they do not continue on to Boulder. Instead, travelers rely on bus services operated by the Regional Transportation District (RTD).
RTD buses depart from areas around Union Station and run directly to Boulder with multiple drop-off points across the city. These services are frequent and designed for both daily commuters and visitors. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route. Tickets are inexpensive, and buses run throughout the day, making this route one of the easiest ways to reach Boulder without a car.
Because Union Station is centrally located, it is especially convenient for travelers staying in downtown Denver or arriving by intercity train. Most people consider this connection simple and well-organized, even without a direct train option.
| Route | Transport type | Average travel time | Estimated cost | Arrival area in Boulder |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Union Station to Boulder | RTD bus | About 45 minutes | Low | Downtown and central Boulder stops |
| Union Station to Boulder | Car | 30–35 minutes | Fuel + parking | Citywide |
| Union Station to Boulder | Taxi / rideshare | 30–35 minutes | High | Exact destination |
Overall, for trips starting at Denver Union Station, RTD bus services provide the most reliable and cost-effective connection to Boulder, effectively replacing the need for a train on this route.
Denver Airport (DEN) to Boulder by Train or Bus
Many travelers arriving at Denver International Airport ask whether there is a direct train from the airport to Boulder. While the airport is connected to downtown Denver by rail, there is no direct train service that continues from the airport to Boulder. Instead, public transportation from the airport to Boulder is mainly handled by bus services operated by the Regional Transportation District (RTD).
RTD runs frequent airport-to-Boulder bus routes that are designed specifically for travelers, including those with luggage. These buses provide a direct and convenient connection without the need to transfer at Denver Union Station. For most passengers, this is considered the easiest and most efficient way to travel from Denver Airport to Boulder using public transport.
The journey usually takes about 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific service. Ticket prices are affordable compared to taxis or rideshares, making RTD buses a popular choice for both visitors and local residents.
| Transport option | Direct from airport | Typical travel time | Approximate cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RTD airport bus | Yes | 45–60 minutes | Low | Most convenient public option |
| Train + bus | No | Longer with transfer | Moderate | Requires change in downtown Denver |
| Taxi / rideshare | Yes | 35–45 minutes | High | Faster but expensive |
| Car rental | Yes | 35–45 minutes | Variable | Depends on traffic and parking |
Distance from Denver to Boulder & Travel Time
The distance between Denver and Boulder is relatively short, which is why the route is popular with commuters, students, and visitors. The two cities are located about 40–45 kilometers (25–28 miles) apart, depending on the exact starting and ending points. Because of this short distance, travel times are generally predictable across different modes of transport.
Public transportation typically takes a bit longer than driving, but it remains a reliable option throughout the day. RTD buses are scheduled to account for regular traffic patterns, while driving times can vary significantly during peak hours. Many travelers prefer public transport to avoid parking challenges and congestion in Boulder.
| Mode of travel | Distance covered | Average travel time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| RTD bus | 40–45 km | Around 45 minutes | Consistent and reliable |
| Car | 40–45 km | 30–35 minutes | Faster off-peak, slower in traffic |
| Taxi / rideshare | 40–45 km | 30–35 minutes | Time similar to driving |
| Bicycle | 40–45 km | 2.5–3 hours | For experienced cyclists |
Overall, the short distance makes traveling between Denver and Boulder quick and convenient, whether you choose public transport or a private vehicle.
Train / Bus Ticket Prices from Denver to Boulder
Travelers looking for ticket prices from Denver to Boulder often expect train fares, but since there is no direct passenger train, pricing mainly applies to RTD bus services. Public transport between Denver and Boulder is considered affordable, especially when compared to taxis or rideshare options.
RTD bus tickets are priced for short regional trips and are widely used by commuters and visitors alike. Fares usually remain consistent throughout the day, making it easy to plan your journey without worrying about peak pricing. Because Amtrak does not operate trains to Boulder, there is no train ticket cost to consider for this specific route.
Driving and taxis offer more flexibility, but they come with higher overall costs once fuel, parking, or fares are included. For budget-conscious travelers, buses remain the most economical choice.
| Transport option | One-way ticket price | Cost level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| RTD bus | Low, fixed fare | Budget-friendly | Most common option |
| Passenger train | Not available | — | No train service to Boulder |
| Taxi / rideshare | High | Expensive | Price varies by time and demand |
| Car | Fuel + parking | Variable | Parking costs in Boulder may apply |
RTD Services Between Denver and Boulder
Public transportation between Denver and Boulder is mainly operated by the Regional Transportation District (RTD). RTD is the regional transit provider for the Denver–Boulder area and is responsible for running the bus services that effectively replace a train on this route. These services are widely used by daily commuters, university students, and visitors traveling without a car.
RTD buses connect downtown Denver, Denver Union Station, and Denver International Airport with multiple locations in Boulder. Services operate frequently throughout the day, and schedules are designed to provide reliable travel times even during busy hours. Most buses arrive in central Boulder areas, making it easy to reach downtown, the university district, or nearby neighborhoods.
Because RTD services are integrated across the metro area, tickets can be used seamlessly without complicated transfers, and travel is generally described as simple and convenient.
| RTD service feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Main operator | Regional Transportation District (RTD) |
| Typical frequency | Every 30–60 minutes |
| Average journey time | About 45 minutes |
| Main departure points | Downtown Denver, Union Station, Denver Airport |
| Arrival areas in Boulder | Downtown and central Boulder stops |
| Best suited for | Commuters, students, visitors |
Overall, RTD services form the backbone of public transport between Denver and Boulder, offering a dependable alternative to a train and making travel between the two cities easy and accessible.
Boulder Train Station & Bus Stations
Travelers arriving in Boulder often look for a main train station, but Boulder does not have an intercity passenger rail station served by Amtrak. Instead, the city is well served by bus stations and transit centers operated by the Regional Transportation District (RTD). These bus facilities function as the primary arrival points for travelers coming from Denver, including services from Denver Union Station and Denver International Airport.
RTD buses typically arrive at central Boulder locations that provide easy access to downtown areas, residential neighborhoods, and nearby attractions. These stops are designed for convenient transfers to local buses, walking routes, or short rides to final destinations. For most visitors, arriving by bus places them close to where they want to be, without the need for additional long transfers.
| Location | Type | Main purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown Boulder stops | Bus stops | Primary RTD arrivals | Close to shopping and dining areas |
| Boulder Transit Center | Bus station | Local and regional connections | Hub for city and regional buses |
| Local neighborhood stops | Bus stops | Final drop-off points | Serve residential and campus areas |
| Intercity train station | Not available | — | No Amtrak service in Boulder |
In summary, while Boulder does not have a traditional train station for intercity travel, its bus stations and transit centers effectively serve the same role, making arrivals from Denver simple and well-organized.
Bus or Train from Denver to Boulder – Which Is Better?
When deciding between a bus or train from Denver to Boulder, most travelers quickly discover that a direct comparison is simple. Although Denver has a major rail hub at Denver Union Station, there is no passenger train service that continues on to Boulder. Because of this, buses operated by the Regional Transportation District (RTD) are the only practical public transport option.
RTD buses are frequent, affordable, and designed to handle daily commuter traffic as well as visitors. Travel times are predictable, and services run from both downtown Denver and Denver International Airport. While trains are often preferred on longer routes, on this short corridor buses effectively provide the same convenience without the need for rail infrastructure.
| Factor | RTD bus | Passenger train |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Frequent, all day | Not available |
| Travel time | Around 45 minutes | — |
| Cost | Low and fixed | — |
| Departure points | Union Station, Denver Airport | — |
| Arrival points | Central Boulder locations | — |
| Overall suitability | Best option | Not an option |
Traveling from Boulder to Denver (Return Trip)
For travelers making the return trip from Boulder to Denver, public transportation options are very similar to the outbound journey. Just like the Denver-to-Boulder route, there is no direct passenger train operating from Boulder to Denver. Instead, regional bus services provided by the Regional Transportation District (RTD) serve as the primary and most reliable option.
RTD buses run frequently from central Boulder locations and connect directly to downtown Denver, including Denver Union Station. Many services also provide connections toward Denver International Airport, making it easy for travelers heading back to catch a flight. Travel times and ticket prices are generally the same as the outbound trip, and buses operate throughout the day.
Because the route is short and well-served, most travelers find the return journey simple and predictable, even without a train option.
| Route | Transport option | Average travel time | Cost level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boulder to Denver | RTD bus | Around 45 minutes | Low | Most common return option |
| Boulder to Denver Union Station | RTD bus | Around 45 minutes | Low | Direct arrival in downtown Denver |
| Boulder to Denver Airport | RTD bus | 45–60 minutes | Low to moderate | Convenient for flights |
| Boulder to Denver | Car | 30–35 minutes | Variable | Depends on traffic |
FAQs – Denver to Boulder Transportation
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about traveling between Denver and Boulder, based on common traveler concerns and public transport information.
Is there a direct train from Denver to Boulder?
No, there is currently no direct passenger train running from Denver to Boulder. Although Denver has a major rail hub at Denver Union Station, trains do not continue on to Boulder. Most travelers use RTD bus services instead.
What is the cheapest way to get from Denver to Boulder?
The RTD bus is the cheapest and most commonly used public transport option. Bus fares are low and fixed, making them more affordable than taxis or rideshares.
How long does it take to travel from Denver to Boulder?
Travel time is usually around 45 minutes by bus. Driving can be slightly faster at 30–35 minutes, but this depends on traffic conditions.
Is there a train from Denver Airport to Boulder?
No direct train runs from Denver International Airport to Boulder. However, RTD operates airport-to-Boulder bus routes that provide a direct and convenient connection.
How far is Boulder from Denver?
Boulder is approximately 40–45 kilometers (25–28 miles) from Denver, depending on the route taken.
Where do buses to Boulder leave from in Denver?
RTD buses depart from several locations, including areas near Denver Union Station, downtown Denver, and Denver International Airport.
Can I travel from Denver to Boulder without a car?
Yes, traveling without a car is easy. RTD buses offer frequent, reliable service, and many travelers prefer public transport to avoid parking and traffic.
| Question topic | Key takeaway |
|---|---|
| Direct train availability | No train service to Boulder |
| Cheapest transport | RTD bus |
| Average travel time | About 45 minutes |
| Airport connection | Direct RTD bus available |
| Distance | Around 40–45 km |
| Car-free travel | Easy with public transport |
Summary – Best Way to Get from Denver to Boulder
Traveling between Denver and Boulder is simple once you understand the available options. While many people search for a train, there is no direct passenger train service connecting the two cities. Instead, public transportation in the Denver–Boulder area is built around RTD bus services, which effectively fill the role a train would normally serve on a short route.
RTD buses operate frequently from downtown Denver, Denver Union Station, and Denver International Airport, offering a reliable and affordable way to reach Boulder without a car. With typical travel times of around 45 minutes and low, predictable fares, buses are widely considered the best and most practical choice for this journey.
Overall, whether you are visiting for a short stay or commuting regularly, RTD bus services provide the easiest, most cost-effective, and well-connected way to get from Denver to Boulder, making them the clear alternative to a train on this route.