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Denver, CO, USA to Missoula, MT, USA from $133: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Denver, United States of America
to
Missoula, United States of America

How to Get from Denver to Missoula: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$133 - Train, busBest price
1081 kmDistance
4h Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Denver to Missoula with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h 
Estimated price
$191-796
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
27h  47m
Estimated price
$133-739
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1081 km
Duration: 4h

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
21h 
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
13h  25m
Estimated price
$160-1910
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
19h  40m
Estimated price
$166-332
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
18h  25m
Estimated price
$167-328

Traveling From Denver to Missoula

The journey from Denver's vibrant urban life to Missoula's serene natural beauty offers a captivating contrast that invites you to explore both destinations' unique charms.

Best Neighbourhoods in Missoula

Missoula boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm.

Downtown Missoula
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and theaters.
• Great dining options featuring local cuisine.
University District
• Home to the University of Montana, lively atmosphere.
• Easy access to coffee shops and local markets.
Upper Rattlesnake
• Scenic trails for hiking and outdoor activities.
• Peaceful residential area with stunning mountain views.

Best Times To Visit Missoula's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Missoula by visiting attractions at the optimal times.

Missoula Art Museum
Late mornings on weekdays offer a quieter atmosphere for art exploration.
Caras Park
Visit in early morning during weekdays to enjoy serene views and space.
Rattlesnake National Recreation Area
Go during weekdays in early spring or fall for fewer hikers and perfect weather.

Missoula Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Missoula experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters, making it essential to plan your visit according to your weather preferences. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Missoula

Try the bison ribeye at The Depot, where the blend of local ingredients and rustic charm creates a dining experience that's a departure from Denver's more urban culinary scene. The savory flavors and inviting atmosphere reflect Missoula's deep connection to the land and its agricultural roots, providing a unique taste of Montana.

Denver - Missoula operators

Explore transport companies operating between Denver and Missoula, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from Denver (DEN) to Missoula (MSO)

Average Duration
2h 7m
Estimated price
$1914-1915
Website
delta.com

Plane from Denver (DEN) to Missoula (MSO)

Average Duration
4h 44m
Estimated price
$1911-1915
Website
flyfrontier.com

Plane from Denver (DEN) to Missoula (MSO)

Average Duration
2h 12m
Estimated price
$1916-1917
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Denver to Salt Lake City

Average Duration
15h
Estimated price
$1918-1911
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1-877-779-2999
Website
expressarrow.com

Bus from Denver Union Station to Buffalo, WY

Average Duration
8h
Estimated price
$7966-7968

Bus from Denver Union Station to Cheyenne, WY

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$7962-1916
Contact phone
+1-858-800-8898
Website
jeffersonlines.com

Bus from Buffalo, WY to Billings, MT

Average Duration
Estimated price
0-0

Bus from Billings, MT to Missoula, MT

Average Duration
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Denver Union Station to Cheyenne

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$1330-1331

Denver to Missoula: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Denver and Missoula offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an epic road trip from Denver to Missoula spanning 900 miles of scenic routes through the heart of the Rocky Mountains. With an estimated drive time of 13 hours and 25 minutes, prepare for a journey filled with breathtaking landscapes and memorable pit stops. 💸 Budget-conscious travelers will find a range of options for transportation, with car rental costs varying between $160 and $240 for the Denver to Missoula route. Explore the flexibility of driving at your own pace, stopping at charming towns and natural wonders along the way, without breaking the bank.
Average price
$160 - $240
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Denver to Missoula, consider Amtrak as your operator. Amtrak offers a dining car with a range of food options, including hot meals, snacks, and beverages. You can also purchase pre-packaged snacks and drinks from the cafe car if you’re looking for something quick. Be sure to check the menu on board as it can vary.
• When booking your trip on Amtrak, you have the option to choose from Coach Class, Business Class, and sleeping car accommodations. Coach Class is the most economical and offers standard seating. Business Class provides roomier seating and complimentary beverages. If you want a more comfortable experience, consider reserving a bedroom suite or a roomette, which includes additional privacy and amenities.
• For your trip, Amtrak is the primary operator, but if you want to explore alternatives, check out the websites for Greyhound (greyhound.com) or Trailways (trailways.com) for bus options that may complement your travel plans. For train updates, visit Amtrak's official website (amtrak.com) for the latest schedule and ticket purchasing.
🛫 Flying from Denver to Missoula is a convenient and quick journey that typically takes around 2 hours and 6 minutes on a direct flight with airlines like Frontier, United, or Delta. ✈️ The flight distance from Denver Airport to Missoula Airport is approximately 700 miles, making it a relatively short trip with the option of both direct and connecting flights for travelers. 💰 Prices for flights between Missoula and Denver can range from $191 to $796, offering a variety of options to suit different budgets and preferences for this flight route.
Departure Point
Denver Airport
Arrival Point
Missoula Airport
🚌 The journey from Denver to Missoula by bus is an 18-hour adventure with transfers along the way. 💰 Bus ticket prices can range from $167 to $328 for this trip, providing travelers with budget-friendly options to explore the scenic route.
Departure Point
Denver Union Station
Arrival Point
Missoula, MT station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Denver to Missoula.

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The cheapest way to travel from Denver to Missoula is to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 780 miles, and it usually takes around 13 hours and 25 minutes to cover the journey. The estimated cost of gas and tolls for the trip ranges from $160 to $240, depending on the vehicle's fuel efficiency.
The fastest way to travel from Denver to Missoula is by taking a flight. The flight duration is approximately 5 hours and 25 minutes, which allows you to reach your destination quickly. The cost of the flight varies from $110 to $450, depending on the airline and time of booking. Flying is the most efficient way to travel between the two cities, saving you significant time compared to driving or other transportation modes.
It is approximately 672 miles from Denver to Missoula. If driving, the road distance is approximately 900.1 miles. The actual travel time will depend on factors such as traffic, speed, and breaks.
The most convenient way to travel from Denver to Missoula without a car is by taking a bus. You can take a bus from Denver to Buffalo, which is a journey of around 3 hours, and then transfer to another bus from Buffalo to Missoula, which takes approximately 15 hours. The total travel time is approximately 18 hours and 26 minutes. The cost for this bus journey can range from $160 to $320, depending on the specific bus service and any discounts available.
The travel time from Denver to Missoula is approximately 5 hours and 25 minutes, including transfers. The actual duration may vary depending on factors such as traffic, weather conditions, and the mode of transportation chosen. It is recommended to check the schedule and plan for potential delays in order to ensure a smooth journey.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Missoula. With over 57 hotels to choose from, you can find options to suit different budgets and preferences. Prices for hotels in Missoula start at $49 per night, providing a range of choices for travelers. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel, a budget-friendly option, or something in between, there are many options available to cater to your needs.
Yes, you can drive from Denver to Missoula. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 900 miles. It takes around 13 hours and 25 minutes to complete the drive, depending on traffic and your driving speed. Keep in mind that this option will require you to have access to a car and will involve expenses such as gas and tolls.
Yes, there is no direct bus from Denver to Missoula. However, there are bus services available with transfers. The journey typically involves departing from Denver, transferring at Buffalo, WY, and then continuing on to Missoula via Billings. The total travel time, including the transfers, takes approximately 18h 26m. Please note that schedules and availability may vary, so it is recommended to check with the bus operators for the latest information and to plan your trip accordingly.
You can catch the Denver to Missoula bus from the Denver station. The bus service is operated by Express Arrow. Make sure to check the schedule and arrive at the station in advance to ensure that you don't miss your bus.
The Denver to Missoula bus services, operated by Jefferson Lines, arrive at the Missoula station. The station is located at 3275 N Reserve St, Missoula 59808. It is a convenient location for travelers to disembark and make further travel arrangements in Missoula. The station provides amenities such as restrooms, waiting areas, and ticketing services for passenger convenience.
To get to Missoula from the airport, you can take a taxi or an airport shuttle to the Missoula International Airport. From there, you can rent a car or take a taxi to reach your final destination in Missoula. There are also private transportation services available, such as Uber and Lyft, which can take you directly to your destination in Missoula. It is recommended to book your transportation in advance to ensure a smooth and convenient journey.
United Airlines and Delta are the two airlines that offer flights between Denver and Missoula. Both airlines operate regular direct flights from Denver Airport to Missoula Airport. Passengers can check the respective airline websites or use travel booking platforms to find available flights, schedules, and ticket prices for this route.
The fastest way to travel from Denver to Missoula is by taking a direct flight. The quickest flight from Denver Airport to Missoula Airport takes approximately 2 hours and 13 minutes. United Airlines and Delta offer flights on this route. The overall travel time by plane is around 5 hours and 25 minutes. Flight prices between Missoula and Denver can range from $113 to $450.
The flight from Denver to Missoula typically takes around 2 hours and 13 minutes on a direct flight. It is important to note that flight durations may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. It is recommended to check with the airlines for the most up-to-date information on flight durations and schedules.
The cost of a flight from Denver to Missoula can vary from $113 to $450, depending on factors such as airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to check multiple airlines and booking websites to find the best deal. It's also worth considering booking in advance or being flexible with travel dates to potentially find cheaper fares.
The cost of a bus ticket from Denver to Missoula can range from $162 to $315. These prices can vary depending on factors such as the date of travel, time of booking, and the bus company you choose. It's always a good idea to check the prices and availability with different bus operators to find the best deal for your journey. Additionally, keep in mind that some buses may offer discounts for students, seniors, or military personnel, so it's worth exploring these options as well.
The cost of driving from Denver to Missoula varies depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency. On average, the estimated cost ranges from $160 to $240 for a round trip. This estimate includes expenses like gas, tolls, and potential overnight stays if needed. It's advisable to budget additional funds for meals and any unforeseen expenses during the 13-hour and 25-minute journey.

Trips to Missoula