Snowstang resuming fifth year of service to mountain resorts

News Release

Dec. 13, 2024 - Colorado - Express service resumes this weekend

Denver — The Colorado Department of Transportation is resuming its Snowstang express bus service from Denver to four of the state’s most popular winter destinations along the Interstate 70 Mountain Corridor on Saturday, Dec. 14.

Snowstang travels roundtrip to Arapahoe Basin, the Town of Breckenridge and Breckenridge Ski Resort, Copper Mountain and Loveland Ski Area every Saturday, Sunday and holiday Mondays through early May 2025. All routes board at Denver Union Station, RTD’s Federal Center Station in Lakewood and at the Wooly Mammoth Park-n-Ride’s upper lot at the I-70 – Morrison/Red Rocks interchange (18560 U.S. 40, Golden, CO 80401).

Roundtrip tickets are $25.00. Additional discounts are available for seniors (65+) and people with disabilities. Children 2 to 11 years old ride for $12.50 (with a paying adult). Tickets can be purchased at ridebustang.com.

“Snowstang is a great option if you love to hit the slopes or engage in other resort activities but would rather leave the driving to someone else,” said CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew. “It’s a testament to its cost-effectiveness and convenience that our passenger numbers continue to increase.”

Snowstang passengers - by the numbers:

  • 2021 to 2022 season: 4,194
  • 2023 to 2024 season: 7,983 (90% increase from 2021 to 2022 season)

“We’re beginning our fifth year of providing a stress-free and safe alternative for skiers and snowboarders to get to some of our world-class resorts,” said CDOT’s Division of Transit and Rail Director Paul DesRocher. “And with Snowstang, you don’t have to worry about parking, we drop you off at a prime location, right near the ski lifts.”

Each coach provides seating for 51 passengers, is climate controlled and has luggage bays, Wi-Fi, a restroom and USB and power outlets.

Due to the popularity of the Copper Mountain service, CDOT will add an additional bus to that route on Jan. 11 and Jan. 25. “This is a great opportunity to test out additional service in January, when we typically see an influx of winter enthusiasts on the roads,” added DesRocher.

To purchase tickets and view schedules and routes, visit RideSnowstang.com. For December service, use promo code LAUNCH24 for 25% off tickets.

Snowstang launched in 2019 to help alleviate traffic congestion during the peak traffic periods, promote walkability within resort communities, link riders to transit services and providers in the mountain communities, and improve air quality for everyone who spends time in the mountains.

Ace Express Coaches of Golden operates Snowstang for CDOT.

Media resources: Email [email protected] for B-roll and images, fact sheet, statements of support, resort information

A few upcoming reasons to ride Snowstang to resort partners this season.

  • Arapahoe Basin, Sunday, Dec. 15: The Snowstang team will be on site at the resort base in the morning with prizes and giveaways
  • Copper Mountain, Saturday, Dec. 21: Toyota U.S. Grand Prix. Reserve a seat on Snowstang to catch the finals of this annual halfpipe competition in Copper's legendary 22-foot Superpipe in Center Village, featuring the world’s best athletes. This event is free to spectate
  • Loveland Ski Area, any Saturday or Sunday: Discounted Lift Tickets. Ride Snowstang to Loveland and get a special lift tickets discount when you purchase them on the Snowstang ticket portal
  • Town of Breckenridge and Breckenridge Resort, Saturday, Dec. 14 - Ullr Fest on Main Street; Let Snowstang do the driving and enjoy the day in Breckenridge for this annual celebration—fun for all ages. The Snowstang team will be on site at the Breckenridge Station transportation center in the morning with prizes and giveaways

Know Before You Go

Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts and anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include:

Remember: Slow For The Cone Zone

The following tips are to help you stay safe while traveling through maintenance and construction work zones.

  • Do not speed in work zones. Obey the posted speed limits.
  • Stay Alert! Expect the unexpected.
  • Watch for workers. Drive with caution.
  • Don't change lanes unnecessarily.
  • Avoid using mobile devices such as phones while driving in work zones.
  • Turn on headlights so that workers and other drivers can see you.
  • Be especially alert at night while driving in work zones.
  • Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
  • Allow ample space between you and the car in front of you.
  • Anticipate lane shifts and merge when directed to do so.
  • Be patient!

Download the COtrip App!

The new free COtrip Planner mobile app was designed to meet the growing trend of information on mobile and tablet devices for the traveling public. The COtrip Planner app provides statewide, real-time traffic information, and works on mobile devices that operate on the iOS and Android platforms. Visit the Google Play Store (Android devices) or the Apple Store (iOS devices) to download!