🏔️ Renting a Car in Denver

Main airportDenver International (DEN)

Drives onRight side

Rental pickupOff-terminal; free shuttles from Level 5, Island 4

Good forSki trips, Rocky Mountain National Park, Red Rocks

Denver is the gateway to the Rockies. Whether it's a ski trip, Rocky Mountain National Park, or a concert at Red Rocks, you'll want a car — and the right one depends a lot on the season.

Picking up at Denver International (DEN)

Rental companies are on airport property but not in the terminal. Catch the free rental car shuttle on Level 5, Island 4 of the Jeppesen Terminal. The ride takes a few minutes, so add time on your return.

Do you need AWD or 4WD?

Winter and ski trips (roughly fall through spring): book an AWD or 4WD SUV. Mountain weather changes fast, and Colorado can enforce traction rules on I-70 during storms.
Ask about tires. Good all-season or winter tires matter as much as AWD. Look at the tread before you leave the lot.
Summer trips: a regular car is fine for the city and paved mountain roads.

Mountain driving tips

I-70 to the ski areas gets very busy on weekend mornings and afternoons. Leave early.
Check road conditions before heading into the mountains.
Altitude is real — drink water and take it easy the first day.

Heading to Denver or the mountains? Clutch checks the weather for your dates and tells you whether you need AWD — plus the right size and fees to watch.

Plan my Denver rental →

Frequently asked questions

Where do I catch the rental car shuttle at Denver airport?

Rental car shuttles pick up on Level 5, Island 4 of the Jeppesen Terminal. The rental companies are on airport property but require the free shuttle.

Do I need AWD to drive in Colorado?

For winter and ski trips, an AWD or 4WD vehicle with good tires is strongly recommended, and Colorado can enforce traction rules on I-70 during storms. In summer, a regular car is usually fine.

Before you book anywhere, read rental car hidden fees and how to avoid damage charges.

Add your Denver travel dates and who's coming — Clutch recommends the right car, gives it a Rental Deal Score, checks the weather, and lists the best rental companies near your destination.