Imagine this: you’ve just landed at Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ), skis in hand, ready for Telluride’s world-class slopes. The air is crisp, the mountains are calling—and then it hits you. How do I actually get to Telluride without spending a fortune?
Good news: getting from Montrose to Telluride doesn’t have to drain your wallet. The 67-mile drive through Colorado’s stunning San Juan Mountains offers several ways to travel—some cheaper than you might expect. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with friends, knowing your options could save you anywhere from $50 to $200.
Let’s break down the most affordable (and convenient) ways to make the trip so you can focus on what really matters—hitting the slopes, enjoying the views, and soaking up everything Telluride has to offer.
Your Travel Options from Montrose to Telluride
There are five main transportation options from Montrose to Telluride, each with different price ranges and perks.
1. Shared Shuttle Services – The Budget Winner
If saving money is your top goal, shared shuttles are your best bet. Prices usually range from $45 to $75 per person one way, depending on the season and time of booking. Companies like Telluride Express and Alpine Express Shuttle run frequent, reliable routes between Montrose Airport and Telluride. Since you share the ride with other travelers, the cost per person stays low.
Expect the trip to take about 90 minutes to 2 hours, depending on weather and stops. For those searching ‘Montrose to Telluride shuttle’, this option remains the most budget-friendly and convenient.
2. Private Shuttles – Best for Groups
At first glance, a private shuttle might look expensive ($200–$450 per vehicle). But when you divide the cost among a group, it can actually be a great deal. Let’s say a group of four books a private shuttle for $350—that’s about $87.50 per person. Not bad, considering you get direct service, flexible departure times, door to door pickup, luxury, comfort, safety and privacy. Local providers like San Juan Limousine offer comfortable and reliable Telluride private shuttle options year-round.
3. Car Rentals – Freedom with a Few Caveats
Renting a car at Montrose Airport costs around $40–$70 per day, plus gas (about $15–$20 round trip). That sounds affordable at first, but there are a few hidden costs like insurance, parking fees, and possible snow chain requirements. Winter routes can be difficult to drive on if you don’t have experience driving in snowy conditions.
4. Rideshares (Uber or Lyft) – Convenient but Pricey
Uber and Lyft do operate in Montrose, but rides to Telluride aren’t always guaranteed. When available, expect to pay $150–$250 each way. They’re great for last-minute trips, but shuttle services offer more reliability and better value.
5. Taxis – Reliable but the Most Expensive
Taxis are available at Montrose Airport, but they’re the least budget-friendly option. Fares to Telluride typically range from $200–$300 one way. Unless you’re sharing the cost, a shared or private shuttle is usually the smarter choice.
Transportation Cost Comparison
Pro Tips to Save Even More
- Book Early for the Best Rates – Many shuttle companies offer 10–15% discounts when you book early.
- Always Choose Round-Trip – You’ll save an extra $15–$30 compared to two one-way tickets.
- Travel Midweek – Flying Tuesday–Thursday often means lower shuttle rates and less traffic.
- Subscribe for Deals – Sign up for newsletters from providers like San Juan Limousine for exclusive offers.
So, What’s the Affordable Way?
After comparing all the options, shared shuttles clearly offer the best value. Solo travelers and couples can grab seats for $45–$65 per person, while groups of four or more can book a private ride for around $55–$90 each. For flexibility beyond airport transfers, consider a rental car—but for convenience, shared and private shuttles win every time.
Bonus: Eco-Friendly and Wallet-Friendly
Choosing a shared shuttle not only saves money but also helps reduce your carbon footprint. Fewer vehicles mean cleaner air and a safer drive through the beautiful San Juan Mountains.
Related Resource
Looking for more travel tips? Check out our blog post Top Mistakes Travelers Make When Booking a Telluride Shuttle — a perfect follow-up read to make sure your next Montrose to Telluride shuttle experience is smooth, affordable, and stress-free.
