Getting Here

Everything you need to know about traveling to Blue River, Colorado.

~2 hours

From Denver (DIA)

10 min

From Breckenridge

20 min

From Keystone

10,300 ft

Elevation

From Denver International Airport

The drive from DIA to Blue River is approximately 2 hours (100 miles) in good conditions. The route is straightforward:

  1. Head west on I-70 from the airport
  2. Continue on I-70 through the Eisenhower Tunnel
  3. Take Exit 203 toward Frisco/Breckenridge
  4. Turn left (south) onto Highway 9
  5. Continue south through Breckenridge — Blue River is 2–5 miles past town

Winter note: Allow extra time in winter. I-70 can experience delays due to weather, accidents, or the Eisenhower Tunnel. Check COtrip.org for real-time conditions before you leave.

Shuttle Services

If you prefer not to drive, several shuttle services operate between DIA and Summit County:

  • Epic Mountain Express — Shared and private shuttles from DIA to Breckenridge area. Book in advance, especially during peak ski season.
  • Summit Express — Private van service with door-to-door drop-off.
  • Ride-share apps — Uber and Lyft operate from DIA but can be expensive for the mountain run ($150–$250+).

Rental Car Tips

A rental car is recommended if you want flexibility to explore Summit County, visit other ski areas, or make grocery runs.

Do I Need 4WD/AWD?

In winter: Strongly recommended. Colorado law (Traction Law) requires adequate tires or chains on I-70 mountain corridors. AWD/4WD vehicles with snow-rated tires are the best option. Blue River roads are plowed but can be icy.

In summer: Any vehicle is fine. The roads to the property are paved.

Parking at the Property

Lodestone Retreat has driveway parking for multiple vehicles. In winter, please park in the plowed driveway area only. Detailed parking instructions are included in your check-in information.

Getting Around Without a Car

It's possible to get around Summit County without a car, thanks to the free public transit system:

  • Summit Stage — Free county-wide bus service with stops along Highway 9. Connects Blue River to Breckenridge, Frisco, and Silverthorne.
  • Breck Free Ride — Free town bus service within Breckenridge, including routes to the ski resort base areas.

Stock Up Before You Arrive

We recommend stopping for groceries on your way in. The best options along the route:

  • Walmart Supercenter (Silverthorne) — Right off I-70 at Exit 205. Full grocery, household supplies.
  • Natural Grocers (Silverthorne) — Organic and natural foods.
  • City Market (Frisco) — Full-service grocery store, closest major option to Blue River.
  • City Market (Breckenridge) — In town, convenient for restocking during your stay.

Ready to Book Your Mountain Getaway?

Plan your trip to Blue River and experience the quieter side of Breckenridge.

Check Availability