The drive from Denver to Phoenix takes approximately 10h 0min, covering 600 miles via I-70. Under normal conditions, expect to spend around $70 on gas.
Travel time can vary — during peak hours, weekends, or holidays, the journey may take 14–15+ hours. For the fastest trip, leave early morning (before 7 AM) or travel on weekday evenings.
Traffic Estimate
🟢 Light traffic
8h 30m
🔵 Typical
10h 0min
🔴 Heavy traffic
14h 30m
Traffic is usually worst during weekday rush hours (7–9 AM, 4–7 PM) and holiday weekends.
Trip Details
Distance600 miles (965 km)
Drive Time10h 0min
RouteI-70
Best TimeEarly morning (6-8 AM)
Fuel Costs
Gas (30 mpg)~20.0 gallons
Est. Cost$70
Route Tips: I-70
Crosses the Rocky Mountains with stunning scenery. Mountain passes can be challenging in winter.
You'll likely need 1 fuel stop along the way.
Best Time to Drive from Denver to Phoenix
For a long drive like Denver to Phoenix, plan to depart early in the morning. This lets you cover most of the distance before afternoon traffic builds up. Consider breaking the trip with a lunch stop midway.
🟢 Best:Early morning (6-8 AM)
🔴 Avoid:Rush hour (4-7 PM)
Driving vs Flying
🚗 Driving
10h 0min
~$70 gas
✈️ Flying
3h 42m
~$90–$210 flight
✈️ Flying is faster when you factor in airport time. Flight time is ~1h 12m but add ~2.5 hours for check-in, security, and boarding.
All Travel Options
🚗 Drive
10h 0min
~$70
🚌 Bus
13h 20m
~$48–$108
🚂 Train
10h 55m
~$72–$180
Estimated times and prices. Bus/train availability varies by route. Driving gives the most flexibility for stops and schedules.
Suggested Stops
Popular cities along the route for rest, food, or fuel:
📍 Mesa Verde
📍 Monument Valley
📍 Telluride
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to drive from Denver to Phoenix?
The drive from Denver to Phoenix takes approximately 10h 0min covering 600 miles via I-70. Actual time may vary based on traffic, weather, and road conditions.
How much does gas cost for Denver to Phoenix?
At 30 MPG and $3.50/gallon, expect to spend approximately $70 on gas for this 600-mile trip. You'll need about 20.0 gallons of fuel.
What is the best time to drive from Denver to Phoenix?
Early morning (6-8 AM) to avoid heavy traffic. Weekday mornings before 7 AM or evenings after 7 PM typically have less congestion.
Are there tolls on the Denver to Phoenix route?
Yes, expect approximately $18 in tolls along this route. Consider getting a ExpressToll transponder for faster toll payment.
