Most people flying to Colorado book Denver on autopilot, but if your trip is built around the mountains, that’s often the long way around. Denver International is huge and well-connected, yet it can leave you with a three or four hour drive to towns like Telluride, Durango, or Aspen. Sometimes a smaller regional airport drops you right where you’re going for a similar price.
I’ve flown into Colorado plenty of times, for summer hikes in the Rockies, fall color drives, and a few ski trips when the snow was good. Below are the nine cheapest airports to fly into Colorado, with the best airlines, rough fare ranges, and the right time to book each one. Match the airport to your trip and you’ll save both money and a long haul over the passes!
What’s New for Budget Flyers?
Spirit Airlines, once a go-to for rock-bottom prices, shut down for good in May 2026. It’s no longer an option on any route and the cheap fares it used to force down have started creeping up. Southwest, another longtime budget favorite for Denver, has also ended its open seating and now charges for checked bags, so it no longer undercuts the big carriers the way it once did. Always compare the full price with bags and seats added in, since the cheapest base fare isn’t always the cheapest trip anymore.
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1. Denver International Airport (DEN)
Location: Northeast Denver, about 25 miles from downtown
Why It’s Cheap: Major hub with heavy airline competition and constant fare sales
Best Airlines: United, Southwest, Frontier (best deals often booked midweek)
Pro Tip: Watch for Frontier’s “Discount DEN” deals. Fly in September or January for best savings
Denver International is the obvious starting point, and for most people it’s the right one. As one of the busiest airports in the country, it’s a hub for United, Southwest, and Frontier, and that head-to-head competition keeps fares lower here than almost anywhere else in the state. Roundtrips from major US cities often land between $90 and $200, with the best prices showing up in the slower late-winter and early-fall windows.
The trade-off is location. DEN sits way out on the eastern plains, so you’re looking at a 30 to 45 minute drive just to reach downtown Denver, and a lot longer to the mountains. If your trip is built around Aspen, Telluride, or Durango, I’d recommend pricing out a regional airport before you default to flying into Denver and driving over the passes.
For everything else, though, Denver is hard to beat on price and convenience. The airport is well connected, easy to navigate once you know it, and the A Line commuter train runs straight downtown in about 37 minutes for far less than a cab. It’s also the simplest place to pick up a rental car for a wider Colorado road trip.
Fun fact: Denver International is the largest airport in North America by land area, covering 52.4 square miles, which is bigger than the entire city of San Francisco.
- Read next: Best Cheap Flights From Denver
- You may also like: Top Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park
- For more reading: Top Things to Do in Denver
- Keep reading: Best Places to Stay in Colorado
2. Colorado Springs Airport (COS)
- 🏠 Location: About 10 miles southeast of downtown Colorado Springs
- 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Lower traffic + fewer fees = better fares
- ✈️ Best Airlines: Southwest, American, United
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Fly in late April or early October for cheap fares and fewer crowds
Colorado Springs Airport might not be the biggest, but it’s one of the smartest airports to fly into if you’re planning to explore southern Colorado. Flights often run between $90–$160 roundtrip from cities like Dallas, Chicago, or LAX, especially during shoulder months. You’ll skip Denver’s crowds while still landing near major sights.
You’ll land close to some of Colorado’s most scenic spots. Garden of the Gods is nearby, with towering red rock formations perfect for hiking and photography. Just beyond that, Pikes Peak offers incredible alpine views you can reach by car or cog railway. The area is also dotted with laid-back towns like Manitou Springs and Canon City, where you’ll find mineral springs, historic districts, and whitewater rafting along the Arkansas River.
Fun fact: COS is known for having some of the shortest TSA wait times in the U.S., often under 10 minutes. Fast, easy, and close to nature? That’s a win.
- Read next: Unique Restaurants in Colorado Springs
3. Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT)
- 🏠 Location: About 4 miles from downtown Grand Junction
- 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Underrated airport with low competition and seasonal sales
- ✈️ Best Airlines: Allegiant, American, United
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Fly here in May or late September for warm weather and off-peak prices
Grand Junction is a hidden gem for flying into western Colorado without the Denver price surge. You’ll often find roundtrip fares from $110–$190 out of Phoenix, Vegas, or Salt Lake City, especially if you fly Allegiant on one of their seasonal deals. It’s smaller, so expect short security lines and fast exits.
From the airport, it’s a 10-minute ride to downtown Grand Junction’s lively main street. More impressively, you’re less than 30 minutes from Colorado National Monument, with epic desert canyons and hiking trails. Within 2 hours, you can reach Telluride’s ski slopes, Glenwood Springs’ hot pools, or the scenic wine town of Palisade.
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👉 Try Going Elite free →Fun fact: Grand Junction is home to the largest flat-topped mountain in the world, Grand Mesa. It’s stunning in every season and perfect for scenic drives, hikes, and lake views. If you’re into road trips and lesser-known adventures, this airport is your secret weapon.
- Read next: Must-Visit Places in Colorado
- You may also like: Fun Things to Do in Telluride
- For more reading: Most Beautiful Lakes in Colorado
4. Aspen-Pitkin County Airport (ASE)
- 🏠 Location: Just 3 miles from downtown Aspen
- 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Lower fares during off-peak months and short-haul routes
- ✈️ Best Airlines: American, Delta, United
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Fly in early June or late September to score Aspen luxury at economy prices
The Aspen-Pitkin County Airport (ASE) might seem upscale, but it becomes surprisingly affordable if you fly outside ski season. Roundtrip fares often fall between $140–$210 from places like LAX, Houston, or Chicago during spring or fall. Since the airport is so close to town, you’ll avoid long transfers and start exploring right away.
The location is perfect for adventure. Maroon Bells is nearby, offering unreal mountain views and peaceful trails. Aspen’s downtown is compact and stylish, filled with shops, galleries, and local festivals. If you’re looking to branch out, take a drive to Independence Pass or unwind in the hot springs of Glenwood Springs.
Fun fact: Aspen’s airport sits at over 7,800 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest commercial airports in North America. The views out your window during landing are absolutely unreal.
5. Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE)
- 🏠 Location: About 30 miles west of Vail
- 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Serves ski resorts directly, especially with seasonal deals
- ✈️ Best Airlines: American, Delta, United
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Book a ski package that includes flights into EGE. This saves big on transport and lift passes
Eagle Airport is a smart choice if you’re headed for the slopes without wanting to trek from Denver. Flights during off-peak ski months or early fall often run $150–$230 roundtrip from hubs like Dallas, Atlanta, or Chicago. It’s small, efficient, and drops you right into Colorado’s mountain playground.
Minutes after landing, you’re close to major resorts like Vail and Beaver Creek, both known for world-class skiing and scenic summer hikes. Fall brings golden aspens and quieter trails, while summer offers biking, festivals, and riverside patios. You can also check out nearby towns like Edwards or Minturn for local food spots and chill mountain vibes.
Fun fact: This airport has a heated runway system to keep operations smooth in snowy weather. It’s built for winter, but honestly, it shines year-round for outdoor lovers.
6. Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO)
- 🏠 Location: About 14 miles southeast of downtown Durango
- 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Low airport traffic and affordable regional flights
- ✈️ Best Airlines: American, United, Southwest
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Combine your trip with a national park visit to stretch your budget and make the most of the flight
Durango’s airport offers a quieter and cheaper entry point into southern Colorado. Roundtrip fares from cities like Phoenix, Dallas, or Denver usually land around $120–$200, especially during late spring or early fall. It’s a small airport with short lines and quick arrivals, so you’ll be out exploring in no time.
From here, you’re close to some of Colorado’s most underrated gems. Visit Mesa Verde National Park to see ancient cliff dwellings or take a scenic ride on the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. The Animas River cuts through town with options for kayaking and riverside biking. Silverton, a cool alpine town with big mountain energy, is just a short drive away.
Fun fact: Durango’s airport has one of the smoothest boarding experiences in the state, with most travelers clearing security and reaching their gate in under 15 minutes.
- Read next: Cheap Flights From Phoenix
7. Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ)
- 🏠 Location: About 4 miles from downtown Montrose
- 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Regional focus with seasonal promotions and ski deals
- ✈️ Best Airlines: Southwest, American, United
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Book flights during late spring or early fall for cheaper rates and fewer crowds
Montrose is a solid pick if you’re heading to Colorado’s western slopes. Flights typically range from $130–$220 roundtrip out of Denver, Salt Lake City, or Dallas. It’s a smaller airport, which makes getting in and out quick and easy. Airlines often roll out discounts tied to ski season or summer adventures.
The airport puts you close to some seriously scenic spots. Telluride is about 90 minutes away and offers top-tier skiing, music festivals, and hiking trails with panoramic views. You’re also near Ouray, often called the Switzerland of America, known for its hot springs and rugged mountain backdrop. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is right nearby too.
Fun fact: During ski season, Montrose sees a major spike in direct flights from cities like Chicago and Houston, thanks to bundled resort-airfare packages that often sell out fast.
- Read next: Top Attractions in Ouray
- You may also like: Best Winter Destinations in Colorado
8. Alamosa San Luis Valley Regional Airport (ALS)
- 🏠 Location: About 3 miles from downtown Alamosa
- 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Minimal airport traffic and government-subsidized flights
- ✈️ Best Airlines: Denver Air Connection, United
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Use this airport as your entry to Great Sand Dunes National Park, just 40 minutes away
Alamosa Airport might be small, but that’s exactly what makes flying here affordable and stress-free. Roundtrip fares often fall between $90–$160 from regional hubs like Denver or Albuquerque. With short lines and easy boarding, it’s one of the simplest ways to fly into southern Colorado.
Late spring and early fall are the best times to visit, when the weather is mild and the crowds are minimal. Great Sand Dunes National Park is close by and perfect for sandboarding, hiking, or stargazing on clear nights. You can also check out Zapata Falls, especially refreshing during warmer months.
The surrounding San Luis Valley offers wide-open views, quirky roadside stops, and peaceful birding trails. It’s a great place to slow down and take in Colorado’s lesser-known natural beauty.
Fun fact: Alamosa’s airport is part of the Essential Air Service program, which keeps flights cheap and reliable for remote travelers across the region.
9. Pueblo Memorial Airport (PUB)
- 🏠 Location: Pueblo, about 45 miles south of Colorado Springs
- 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Small airport with no big-hub fees, though options are limited
- ✈️ Best Airlines: United (via Denver Air Connection)
- 🧠 Pro Tip: Consider flying here and renting a car to explore southern Colorado without Denver’s airport traffic
Pueblo is the smallest commercial airport on this list, and it’s a niche pick rather than a everyday option. Right now the only scheduled service is United Express, operated through the Denver Air Connection program, with short hops to and from Denver. There’s no real airline competition here, so you won’t find the kind of fare wars that drive prices down at bigger airports.
That said, it can still work out cheaper overall once you factor in how easy it is. The airport is tiny and quick to get through, parking is cheap, and you skip the traffic and fees that pile up at Denver or Colorado Springs. If you’re headed for southern Colorado spots like the Sangre de Cristo range or the Royal Gorge, flying in here can save you a long drive south.
Just go in with realistic expectations on price and schedule. Because everything routes through Denver, your fare and timing depend on that connection, so it’s worth comparing against simply flying into Denver or Colorado Springs and driving. For the right trip, though, Pueblo is the most low-stress way into this corner of the state.
Fun fact: Pueblo Memorial is also home to the Pueblo Weisbrod Aircraft Museum, where you can walk among vintage military planes right next to the working airport.
- Read Next: 12 Fun Things to Do in Colorado
Global Viewpoint is a personal blog. All content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional financial, medical, or legal advice.
