Is there a train to Salt Lake City?

No, there is no direct passenger rail service from Fort Collins to Salt Lake City.

How long is the drive?

The drive typically takes 7 hours depending on traffic and weather.

Are there tolls on this route?

No, the route via I-80 is toll-free.

What is the best airport?

Denver International Airport is the primary hub for flights to Salt Lake City.

Yes, the drive through the Laramie Mountains and high desert is visually striking.

Fort Collins

Salt Lake City

Flight Driving

Fort Collins to Salt Lake City

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Fort Collins to Salt Lake City covers approximately 680 kilometers via I-80 West. You will traverse the high plains of Wyoming before descending into the Salt Lake Valley. Driving is the most practical method, taking roughly 7 hours under normal traffic conditions. Alternatively, you can fly from Denver International Airport, which is a 75-minute shuttle ride from Fort Collins. This route offers stunning views of the Laramie Mountains and the high desert landscape.

Total Distance: 680 km driving, 510 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Denver International Airport takes 3 hours total including the shuttle transfer.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest option, costing roughly $80 in fuel for a standard sedan.

Compare Fort Collins to Salt Lake City Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	1 hour 30 mins flight time	7 hours
Avg Price	$150-$300	$60-$100 in fuel
Operator	United Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	Denver International Airport (DEN) to Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC).	Take CO-14 West to US-287 North, then merge onto I-80 West through Laramie and Rock Springs.
Tip	Use the Groome Transportation shuttle from Fort Collins to reach DEN efficiently.	Check wind speeds in Wyoming before departing as I-80 is prone to high-wind closures.

Travel Tips

Altitude Awareness
Both cities are at high elevation; stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.
I-80 Weather
Always check the Wyoming Department of Transportation website for road closures during winter.
Shuttle Booking
Book your Groome Transportation shuttle to Denver at least 48 hours in advance.
Time Zone
Both cities are in the Mountain Time Zone, so no clock adjustment is needed.
Fuel Stops
Fill your tank in Laramie, Wyoming, as gas stations can be sparse on remote stretches of I-80.

Safety Tips

Wildlife Hazards
Be alert for deer and elk crossing the highway, especially during dawn and dusk.
Emergency Kit
Carry a winter emergency kit including blankets and water, even in shoulder seasons.
Cell Service
Expect intermittent cell service in rural Wyoming; download offline maps.
Speed Limits
Observe the 80 mph speed limits in Wyoming, but slow down significantly during high winds.