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Des Moines, IA, USA to Grand Junction, CO, USA from $125: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Des Moines, United States of America
to
Grand Junction, United States of America

How to Get from Des Moines to Grand Junction: 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.

$125 by busBest price
1304 kmDistance
5h 30m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Des Moines to Grand Junction 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
5h  36m
Estimated price
$158-596
Recommended
Company
Burlington Trailways, Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
24h  7m
Estimated price
$125-287
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1304 km
Duration: 5h 30m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
6h  6m
Estimated price
$177-1580
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
6h  22m
Estimated price
$179-555
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
5h  30m
Estimated price
$187-416
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
20h  10m
Estimated price
$1581-1582
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
14h  7m
Estimated price
$1583-1584
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Des Moines to Grand Junction

Traveling from Des Moines to Grand Junction offers a striking contrast between the vibrant cityscape of Iowa's capital and the stunning natural beauty of Colorado's desert landscapes.

Best Neighbourhoods in Grand Junction

Grand Junction features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct attractions and vibes.

Downtown Grand Junction
• Rich history with charming architecture.
• Vibrant arts scene and local eateries.
Redlands
• Scenic views of the Bookcliff Mountains.
• Close access to hiking and biking trails.
Mesa Mall Area
• Shopping hub with various retail options.
• Family-friendly restaurants and entertainment.

Best Times To Visit Grand Junction's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience in Grand Junction's attractions.

Colorado National Monument
Visit early morning or late afternoon for stunning views and fewer crowds.
Downtown Grand Junction
Weekdays are ideal for exploring shops and cafes without the weekend rush.
Canyon View Park
Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and vibrant scenery for outdoor activities.

Grand Junction Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Grand Junction enjoys a semi-arid climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. Spring and fall offer the best conditions for outdoor adventures, while summer heat can be intense; planning activities around early mornings or evenings can enhance your travel experience.

Dining in Grand Junction: A Culinary Contrast

For a true taste of Grand Junction, try the locally sourced lamb at Bin 707 Foodbar, where the farm-to-table philosophy shines through with every bite. This dining experience stands apart from Des Moines, as you savor bold flavors and enjoy a vibrant atmosphere that reflects Colorado's rich agricultural heritage.

Des Moines - Grand Junction operators

Explore transport companies operating between Des Moines and Grand Junction, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Grand Junction (GJT)

Average Duration
4h 47m
Estimated price
$1589-1580

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Montrose (MTJ)

Average Duration
4h 25m
Estimated price
$1589-1580

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Aspen (ASE)

Average Duration
4h 23m
Estimated price
$1589-5960

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Eagle (EGE)

Average Duration
4h 48m
Estimated price
$1589-5960
Website
aa.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Grand Junction (GJT)

Average Duration
6h 48m
Estimated price
$1581-1588

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Montrose (MTJ)

Average Duration
5h 44m
Estimated price
$1581-1588
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Montrose (MTJ)

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
$1583-5961
Website
allegiantair.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Grand Junction (GJT)

Average Duration
7h 59m
Estimated price
$5962-1586
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
1(800) 992-4618
Website
burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from Des Moines, IA to Kansas City, MO

Average Duration
Estimated price
$5965-5966
Contact phone
+1-877-779-2999
Website
expressarrow.com

Bus from Omaha, NE to Denver

Average Duration
10h 20m
Estimated price
$5969-1589
Contact phone
+1 800-900-3011
Website
ridebustang.com

Bus from Union Station Gate B19 to Grand Valley Downtown Transfer Station

Average Duration
5h 40m
Estimated price
$1250-5967
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Kansas City Bus Station to Glenwood Springs

Average Duration
16h 40m
Estimated price
$1259-2870
Contact phone
+1-858-800-8898
Website
jeffersonlines.com

Bus from Des Moines, IA to Kansas City, MO

Average Duration
Estimated price
$0-0

Des Moines to Grand Junction: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Des Moines and Grand Junction 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 915-mile road trip from Des Moines to Grand Junction experiencing the beauty of the heartland and the Rockies along the way. 💰 Prices to make this journey by car range from $160 to $240, offering flexibility for travelers seeking budget-friendly or more comfortable options. ⏱️ Enjoy a scenic drive that takes around 14 hours and 7 minutes, passing through diverse landscapes and charming towns as you make your way to the stunning destination of Grand Junction.
Average price
$160 - $240
🛫 Traveling from Des Moines to Grand Junction by plane is a convenient option despite the lack of a direct flight. The quickest route includes one stopover and takes approximately 4 hours and 10 minutes. Allegiant Air, United Airlines, and American Airlines provide flights for this journey. 🌄 Once you arrive at Grand Junction Airport, expect a total travel time of around 5 hours and 36 minutes from Des Moines. The scenic views and outdoor activities in Grand Junction make it a worthwhile destination for nature enthusiasts.
Departure Point
Des Moines Airport
Arrival Point
Grand Junction Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 10m and has one stopover
🚌 While there is no direct bus from Des Moines to Grand Junction, travelers can embark on a scenic journey with transfers in Omaha, NE and Union Station Gate B19. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 20 hours and 10 minutes. 💰 Ticket prices for the Des Moines to Grand Junction bus route range from $125 to $287, making this an affordable option for those seeking a unique and picturesque way to travel between these two charming destinations. A bus journey offers a comfortable and convenient way to experience the diverse landscapes along the way.
Departure Point
Des Moines, Ia station
Arrival Point
Grand Valley Downtown Transfer Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Des Moines to Grand Junction.

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The distance between Des Moines and Grand Junction is approximately 810 miles. By taking a flight to Montrose and then driving, the travel time is approximately 5 hours and 29 minutes. If you prefer to travel by plane directly, the travel time remains the same. On the other hand, if you choose to drive, it would take about 14 hours and 7 minutes to reach Grand Junction from Des Moines. Taking a bus would be the longest travel time option, with a duration of approximately 23 hours and 46 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Des Moines to Grand Junction is by taking a bus, which costs $140-$250. However, this option also takes the longest time, with a travel duration of 20h 10m. If time is a priority, the fastest option is to fly, which takes 5h 29m and costs $290-$1,000. Overall, the bus is cheaper but more time-consuming, while flying is more expensive but significantly quicker.
The prices of a bus ticket between Des Moines and Grand Junction can range from $124 to $284, depending on the bus company and the type of ticket you choose. It is recommended to check with various bus companies to compare prices and find the best deal. Additionally, prices may vary depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book your ticket.
To travel from Des Moines to Grand Junction without public transportation, your best option is to drive. The driving distance is approximately 915 miles, and it takes approximately 14 hours and 7 minutes to complete the journey. Depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency, the cost of driving can range from $160 to $240.
To travel from Des Moines to Grand Junction without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 20 hours and 10 minutes, and the cost ranges from $140 to $250. Taking a bus allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery while someone else drives, making it a convenient and cost-effective way to travel between the two cities.
No, there is no direct link between Des Moines and Grand Junction. However, there are bus services operated by Burlington Trailways and Bustang that can take you from Des Moines to Grand Junction with transfers at Omaha, NE and Union Station Gate B19. The journey takes approximately 20 hours and 10 minutes.
The flight duration between Des Moines and Grand Junction varies, as there is no direct flight. The quickest option with one stopover takes approximately 4 hours and 12 minutes. The cost of a flight between the two cities can range from $298 to $996, depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. It is advised to check with airlines for the most up-to-date flight schedules and prices.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Grand Junction. You can choose from over 148 hotels in the area. Prices for hotels start at $46 per night, so there are options available for different budgets. It is recommended to compare prices and amenities of various hotels to find the best fit for your stay near Grand Junction.

Trips from Des Moines

Trips to Grand Junction