Flight
Driving
Denver to Los Angeles
Updated: 28 May 2026
The trip from Denver to Los Angeles covers about 1,650 kilometers. Driving via I-70 West and I-15 South takes approximately 15 to 16 hours, passing through Utah and the Nevada desert. Alternatively, you can fly from Denver International Airport (DEN) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which takes about 2.5 hours on a direct flight. Los Angeles is a sprawling metropolis known for its entertainment industry and beaches.
Total Distance: Driving distance 1,650 km, straight-line air distance 1,350 km.
Fastest Way
Direct flight from DEN to LAX is the fastest.
Cheapest Way
Budget airlines offer the most affordable travel.
Compare Denver to Los Angeles Routes
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Direct
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 2 hours 30 mins | 15 hours 30 mins |
| Avg Price | $120-$300 | $180-$250 in fuel |
| Operator | Southwest Airlines | Personal Vehicle |
| Route | DEN to LAX | I-70 West to I-15 South through Las Vegas. |
| Tip | Frequent daily flights are available. | The drive through the Rockies is beautiful but can be challenging in winter. |
Travel Tips
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TrafficLA traffic is notorious; plan your travel outside of rush hours.
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Airport TransitUse the FlyAway bus to get from LAX to various parts of the city.
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DiningExplore the diverse food scene in neighborhoods like Koreatown and Little Tokyo.
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WeatherLA is generally sunny; bring sunscreen and sunglasses.
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Car RentalA car is essential for exploring the vast LA area.
Safety Tips
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Highway SafetyBe prepared for aggressive driving on LA freeways.
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Emergency PrepCarry plenty of water for the desert drive.
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Night DrivingAvoid driving through unfamiliar areas late at night.
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Stay AlertUse GPS to navigate the complex freeway system.
People Also Ask
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Is LA safe?Major tourist areas are safe, but stay aware of your surroundings.
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How long is the drive?Approximately 15 to 16 hours.
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Are there direct flights?Yes, from DEN to LAX.
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What is the best time to visit?Spring and Fall.
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Do I need a car?Yes, it is highly recommended.
Quick Info
- From Denver, Colorado, United States
- To Los Angeles, California, United States
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
Spring or Fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Things to Do in Los Angeles
1
Griffith Observatory
Offers stunning views of the Hollywood Sign and the city. It is a great place to learn about astronomy.
2
Santa Monica Pier
A classic beach destination with an amusement park and shops. It is perfect for a sunset walk.
3
The Getty Center
A world-renowned art museum with beautiful gardens and architecture. Admission is free, but parking requires a fee.
4
Hollywood Walk of Fame
See the stars of your favorite celebrities along the sidewalk. It is a quintessential LA experience.
Tags
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