Denver’s Thanksgiving Traffic: Top Times to Avoid and Best Hours to Travel

Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel periods of the year, and Denver is no exception. As the holiday weekend approaches, traffic in and around the Mile High City is expected to surge, with thousands of people hitting the road to visit family, enjoy vacations, or get a head start on Black Friday shopping.

Whether you’re traveling within the city or heading out to the surrounding mountains, knowing the best and worst times to travel can make a significant difference in your journey.

Here’s a guide to help you navigate Denver’s Thanksgiving traffic and make your trip as smooth as possible.

Worst Times to Travel in Denver During Thanksgiving

Wednesday Afternoon and Evening (2 PM – 8 PM)
The worst time to hit the road in Denver is typically the Wednesday afternoon and evening before Thanksgiving. This is when the majority of people begin their holiday travels, and the roads can become gridlocked, especially on highways like I-25 and I-70, which see the heaviest traffic.

As people leave work early to start their long weekend, expect long delays, especially along the major corridors heading out of town. If you can, try to delay your departure until after 8 PM when traffic begins to thin out.

Thursday Morning (7 AM – 10 AM)
While Thanksgiving Day morning isn’t as congested as the day before, there can still be significant traffic during the early hours, particularly for those traveling to holiday destinations in the mountains or for those rushing to last-minute shopping.

Roads like I-70 and the routes to popular ski resorts may see congestion as people head out early to catch the start of the holiday. Be prepared for slower-than-usual travel, particularly if you’re trying to get ahead of the crowds.

Sunday Afternoon and Evening (3 PM – 8 PM)
The return trip after Thanksgiving can be just as, if not more, frustrating than the outbound journey. Sunday afternoon and evening are prime times for drivers heading back to Denver after the holiday weekend.

Major highways like I-25 and I-70 will be packed with cars returning from trips, and many travelers will also face traffic bottlenecks at key intersections or highway exits. If you’re heading back on Sunday, consider leaving before 3 PM or waiting until after 8 PM to avoid the peak traffic period.

Best Times to Travel in Denver During Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Morning (5 AM – 7 AM)
If you’re looking to avoid the worst of the traffic, the early hours of Thanksgiving Day itself are generally the best time to drive. Most people are still at home preparing for their holiday meal, and the roads are much less crowded.

This window is ideal for early risers who can hit the road before the typical rush begins. Whether you’re traveling into the city or heading out to a mountain destination, you’ll find the drive smoother and faster.

Thursday Afternoon (1 PM – 3 PM)
If you can’t leave early in the morning on Thanksgiving Day, aim for mid-afternoon, between 1 PM and 3 PM, when the roads typically quiet down.

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By this time, the morning rush has subsided, and many families are already settled in for their holiday meals. This is an ideal time to travel to avoid both heavy traffic and the worst of the crowds, especially for those heading to or from local destinations.

Saturday Morning (7 AM – 11 AM)
While Saturday can be a busy travel day, especially for those heading to ski resorts, the earlier you leave, the better.

If you’re traveling on Saturday, aim for the morning hours between 7 AM and 11 AM. This window typically sees less congestion before the afternoon and evening crowds begin to build up. Additionally, if you’re heading to the mountains or popular tourist areas, getting an early start will give you the best chance of avoiding delays.

Tips for Beating Thanksgiving Traffic in Denver

1. Plan Your Route
   Before you hit the road, take time to map out your route and check for any traffic reports or road closures. Apps like Google Maps, Waze, and local traffic alerts can help you navigate around accidents, roadwork, or other obstacles that might add to your travel time. If possible, consider alternate routes to avoid the most congested highways.
2. Consider Carpooling or Public Transit
   If you’re traveling with family or friends, carpooling can be an effective way to reduce the number of vehicles on the road. Additionally, Denver’s public transit system, including light rail and buses, can provide an alternative to driving, especially for those who may not be traveling long distances.
3. Pack Snacks and Entertainment
   With longer travel times expected, make sure to pack snacks, water, and entertainment for the ride. This is especially important if you have young children in the car. Download your favorite playlists, audiobooks, or movies to help pass the time and keep everyone comfortable.
4. Be Prepared for Weather Delays
   Colorado weather can be unpredictable, particularly in the fall and winter months. Snow, rain, or icy conditions can quickly make roadways treacherous. Keep an eye on weather forecasts and road conditions, and make sure your car is prepared for winter driving with proper tires and emergency supplies.
5. Stay Patient and Safe
   Thanksgiving traffic can be frustrating, but it’s important to stay calm, patient, and focused on the road. Make sure to follow traffic laws, keep a safe distance from other vehicles, and avoid distractions. The more relaxed and cautious you are, the safer your journey will be.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving in Denver is a time for celebration, family, and fun—but it’s also one of the busiest travel periods of the year. By avoiding peak travel times and planning, you can make your holiday journey much more manageable.

Whether you’re traveling within the city or heading to the mountains, knowing when to go and when to stay off the roads can save you time and stress. With a little preparation and a lot of patience, you can enjoy a smooth and safe Thanksgiving getaway.