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Vail, CO, USA to Boulder, CO, USA from $9: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Vail, United States of America
to
Boulder, United States of America

How to Get from Vail to Boulder: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$9 by busBest price
167 kmDistance
2h 1m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Vail to Boulder 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
Bus
Average Duration
3h  17m
Estimated price
$10-32
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
3h  17m
Estimated price
$9-35
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 167 km
Duration: 2h 1m

See more options

Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  1m
Estimated price
$18-28
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
4h  31m
Estimated price
$219-632
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Vail to Boulder

The journey from Vail to Boulder presents a stunning contrast between Vail's alpine charm and Boulder’s vibrant, urban lifestyle.

Best Neighbourhoods in Boulder

Boulder boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences for visitors.

Pearl Street Mall
• Bustling pedestrian mall with shops and restaurants.
• Vibrant street performers and cultural events year-round.
Chautauqua
• Scenic trails and access to the Flatirons.
• Historic buildings and a charming atmosphere.
North Boulder (NoBo)
• Artsy vibe with local galleries and studios.
• Up-and-coming dining scene featuring innovative cuisine.

Best Times To Visit Boulder's Attractions

Timing your visits to Boulder's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Flatirons
Early morning or late afternoon offers stunning light and fewer hikers.
Pearl Street Mall
Visit on weekdays to dodge crowds and enjoy a leisurely stroll.
Boulder Creek Path
Spring or fall brings pleasant weather and fewer tourists on the path.

Boulder Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Boulder experiences a semi-arid climate with distinct seasons, featuring warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The best times to visit are spring and fall, when mild temperatures and beautiful scenery enhance your adventure.

Dining Recommendation

Consider visiting The Kitchen for a fresh farm-to-table experience that showcases Boulder’s commitment to local ingredients and healthful cuisine. Unlike Vail’s upscale dining scene, this restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere with bold flavors that reflect the city’s creative culinary spirit.

Vail - Boulder operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-900-3011
Website
https://ridebustang.com/

Bus from Vail Transportation Center to Wewatta St & 17th St

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$101-102

Bus from Vail Transportation Center to Broadway & Euclid Ave

Average Duration
3h 17m
Estimated price
$10-32
Contact phone
+1 303-299-6000
Website
http://www.rtd-denver.com

Bus from Union Station Gate B17 to Broadway & Euclid Ave

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$106-109

Bus from Denver Airport Station Gate 8 to Downtown Boulder Station

Average Duration
1h 9m
Estimated price
$106-107
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.united.com

Plane from Aspen Airport to Denver Airport

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$200-100

Vail to Boulder: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Vail and Boulder 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.

🚗 The scenic drive from Vail to Boulder covers 104 miles of picturesque Colorado landscape, offering stunning mountain views along the way. 💰 Prices for the journey by car range from $18 to $28, providing an affordable and flexible travel option for those looking to explore the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. ⏱️ With an approximate travel time of 2 hours and 1 minute, the road trip from Vail to Boulder promises a smooth and enjoyable journey through the heart of Colorado.
Average price
$18 - $28
The route covers a distance of 128 miles and involves a transfer in Denver. 🚌 Step 1 includes taking a bus towards Denver, with a picturesque ride lasting about 2 hours and 35 mins. Depart from Vail Transportation Center and arrive at Union Station by the Colorado Department of Transportation's Bustang West Line. 🌄 Step 2 continues the adventure with a bus towards Downtown Boulder All-Station, a delightful journey of around 50 minutes. Board the Denver - Boulder Station bus at Union Station, operated by the Regional Transportation District.
🛫 The trip from Vail to Boulder by plane would typically involve flying out of Aspen Airport. The quickest direct flight to reach Denver Airport from Aspen Airport takes approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes.
Departure Point
Aspen Airport
Arrival Point
Denver Airport
🚌 Despite there being no direct bus from Vail to Boulder, travelers can still make the journey in approximately 3 hours and 17 minutes with transfers. The services depart from Vail Transportation Center and arrive at Broadway & Euclid Ave. 🛣️ Route options include transfers and varying distances, with travel times ranging from 3 hours 39 minutes to 4 hours 28 minutes between Vail and Boulder. Each route involves taking specific buses, such as those operated by Bustang and Regional Transportation District. 💰 The prices for a bus ticket between Boulder and Vail range from $10 to $32. It's advisable for passengers to plan their routes and transfers carefully to ensure a smooth and efficient journey.
Departure Point
Vail Transportation Center station
Arrival Point
Broadway & Euclid Ave station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Vail to Boulder.

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The cheapest way to travel from Vail to Boulder is by bus. There are several bus companies that offer this route at varying prices, ranging from $9 to $50. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes, depending on traffic and any stops along the way. Buses are generally a cost-effective and convenient option for traveling between these two cities.
The fastest way to travel from Vail to Boulder is by driving. The drive takes approximately 2 hours and 1 minute, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of fuel for the trip is estimated to be between $18 and $28, depending on the fuel efficiency of the vehicle and current gas prices. It is important to note that travel times may vary depending on road conditions and the time of day.
The distance from Vail to Boulder is approximately 65 miles. If you're traveling by road, the distance is about 103.7 miles. The actual travel time will depend on the route you take, traffic conditions, and the mode of transportation you choose. It typically takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours to drive from Vail to Boulder.
To travel from Vail to Boulder without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes and the ticket prices range from $9 to $50. There are several bus companies that operate this route, including Bustang and Greyhound. It is recommended to check the schedules and book your ticket in advance to ensure availability.
The journey from Vail to Boulder takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes, including transfers. This time can vary depending on traffic and weather conditions. It is recommended to plan for extra time during peak travel periods, such as holidays or weekends, to account for potential delays. Overall, the journey is relatively straightforward and well-connected, allowing for a smooth and timely arrival in Boulder.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Boulder. There is a wide range of hotels to choose from, with prices starting at $61 per night. Some popular hotel chains in the area include Hilton, Marriott, and Holiday Inn. Additionally, there are also options for budget travelers such as motels and bed and breakfast establishments. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance to secure the best rates and availability.
Yes, you can drive from Vail to Boulder. The distance between the two cities is approximately 104 miles. The drive takes around 2 hours and 1 minute, depending on traffic conditions. It is recommended to check for any road closures or construction updates before beginning your journey.
Yes, there is no direct bus from Vail to Boulder. However, there are services available that require a transfer. The journey starts at the Vail Transportation Center and involves transferring at Union Station Gate B17 in Denver. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes.
To catch the bus from Vail to Boulder you will need to go to the Vail Transportation Center station. Bustang operates bus services from this station. It is recommended to check the schedule and arrive at the station a little earlier to ensure a smooth departure.
The Vail to Boulder bus, operated by Regional Transportation District, arrives at the Broadway & Regent Dr station in Boulder. This station is conveniently located in the heart of Boulder, offering easy access to the city's downtown area and nearby attractions. Passengers can disembark here and explore all that Boulder has to offer, from its vibrant arts scene to its beautiful outdoor recreational opportunities.
The cost of a bus ticket from Vail to Boulder can range from $10 to $49. The specific price will depend on factors such as the bus company, time of travel, and any discounts or promotions available. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal.
The cost to drive from Vail to Boulder can range from $18 to $28, depending on factors such as the type of vehicle and current gas prices. The distance between the two cities is approximately 96 miles via I-70 E and US-36 E, which takes around 2 hours. It is advisable to consider the cost of fuel, tolls, and parking fees when calculating the total expense of the trip.

Trips to Boulder