What is the exact distance from Chicago to Denver?

The driving distance from Chicago to Denver is 1615 kilometers (1004 miles). The straight-line distance is 1478 km.

How long does it take to drive from Chicago to Denver?

The estimated driving time from Chicago to Denver is 15.3 hours under normal traffic conditions. This can vary based on traffic, road conditions, and your driving speed.

What is the fastest route from Chicago to Denver?

The fastest route is typically 1615km and takes about 15.3 hours. This route is optimized for time and usually uses major highways and roads.

Are there alternative routes from Chicago to Denver?

Yes, we provide up to 2 different route options including the fastest route, shortest distance route, and alternative paths that may offer different scenery or avoid certain road types.

Does the route from Chicago to Denver include tolls?

Yes, some routes from Chicago to Denver may include toll roads. Check the detailed route information below for specific toll road indicators.

Can I get turn-by-turn directions from Chicago to Denver?

While we provide the route overview and key information, for detailed turn-by-turn directions, we recommend using the route data with your preferred GPS navigation app or mapping service.

Chicago to Denver Distance

1004 miles•1615 km•15.3 hours

Driving distance and route information from Chicago, United Statesto Denver, United States. Compare multiple routes and get detailed travel information.

⭐

FASTEST ROUTE

1003.56 mi

(1615.07 km)

⏱️15h 15m

Via South Michigan Avenue, East Harrison Street

South Michigan Avenue → East Harrison Street

🛣️ 70% Highway💰 Tolls

📏

SHORTEST ROUTE

1113.89 mi

(1792.63 km)

⏱️16h 50m

Via South Michigan Avenue, East Balbo Drive

South Michigan Avenue → East Balbo Drive

🛣️ 70% Highway💰 Tolls

📏 Straight-line distance: 918 miles (1478 km)

See crow flies distance →

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Complete Driving Guide: Chicago to Denver

Essential Route Information

TOTAL DISTANCE

1004 mi

1615 kilometers

DRIVING TIME

15.3 hours

918 minutes

FUEL ESTIMATE

135 L

$202 cost

📍 Route Overview

Starting PointChicago, Illinois

DestinationDenver, Colorado

Route Options2 available routes

Countries Crossed1 country

Time Zone ChangesCheck local times

🚗 Driving Details

Average Speed106 km/h

Straight-line Distance1478 km

Route Efficiency92%

Toll RoadsYes - Budget required

Ferry CrossingsNo ferries

Compare All Routes from Chicago to Denver

Route Type	Distance	Drive Time	Avg Speed	Tolls
⭐ Fastest Route	1004 mi (1615 km)	15.3 hours	106 km/h	✅ Yes
Alternative 1	1114 mi (1793 km)	16.8 hours	106 km/h	✅ Yes

Complete Journey Overview: Chicago to Denver

The road journey from Chicago to Denver spans approximately 1004 miles (1615 kilometers), making it a long-distance drive that typically requires 15.3 hours of continuous driving under normal traffic conditions.

This route connects Illinois, United States with Colorado, United States, traversing through various regions within United States. The journey offers 2 distinct routing options, each with unique advantages in terms of distance, time, or scenic value.

The most efficient route from Chicago to Denver follows major highways and arterial roads, maintaining an average speed of approximately 106 km/h. This route has been optimized for speed, though it includes toll roads that require payment.

🗺️ Travel Planning Essentials

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Fuel Planning: Expect to use approximately 40 gallons (135 liters) of fuel for this 1004 mile journey. Plan fuel stops every 250-300 miles.

✓

Rest Stops: For safety, plan a 15-minute break every 2 hours of driving. Total journey with breaks: 17.6 hours.

✓

Best Travel Times: Avoid peak traffic hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) in major cities along your route for optimal travel time.

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Weather Check: Monitor weather conditions along the entire route, especially during winter months or rainy seasons.

💰 Cost Estimation Guide

Fuel Cost (approximate)$140

Toll Costs$50

Vehicle Wear (per mile)$251

Total Trip Cost$442

* Costs are estimates based on average fuel prices and vehicle maintenance. Actual costs may vary.

Alternative Transportation Options

🚗

By Car

15.3 hours

1004 miles

✈️

By Plane

1.8 hours flight

1478 km direct

🚌

By Bus

19.9 hours

Multiple stops

🚂

By Train

Check availability

Scenic route