Bustang Service Expands in Colorado – New Routes & What It Means for Travelers

In recent years, Colorado has experienced substantial growth in population, tourism, and transportation needs. As the state continues to expand, ensuring efficient, reliable, and affordable transportation becomes a key priority for residents and visitors alike. One of the most significant advancements in public transit in Colorado is the expansion of Bustang, the state-run intercity bus service that connects major cities and regions.

Bustang, operated by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), has been an essential part of the state’s transportation infrastructure. It has enabled Coloradans to travel comfortably and affordably between cities, without the hassle of driving themselves. With the recent expansion, new routes have been added, providing even greater access and convenience for residents and tourists.

In this post, we will explore the Bustang service expansion, the new routes, and what these developments mean for travelers throughout Colorado.

What is Bustang?

Before delving into the specifics of the expansion, it’s important to understand what Bustang is and how it operates. Bustang is a state-run intercity bus service that connects multiple cities across Colorado. The service was first launched in 2015 to address the growing need for accessible, affordable, and environmentally friendly public transportation options. Since its launch, Bustang has expanded in both routes and ridership, helping travelers get from one destination to another without the need for a personal vehicle.

Bustang is not just a city-to-city bus service; it is also a convenient alternative to other forms of transportation such as driving, flying, or even using other regional bus services. The buses are equipped with comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and restrooms, ensuring that travelers can enjoy a relaxed and efficient journey.

Bustang is also a crucial component of CDOT’s larger mission to reduce congestion on Colorado’s highways and reduce the state’s carbon footprint. By encouraging people to choose Bustang over driving their own cars, the service contributes to a greener, more sustainable transportation system.

The Expansion of Bustang Services

As of early 2025, Bustang has announced an exciting expansion of its services, which includes new routes and improvements to existing lines. These changes are designed to enhance the overall user experience, make it easier for travelers to move between key destinations, and address some of the growing demands for intercity transit.

Colorado’s population is growing rapidly, especially in major metropolitan areas such as Denver, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins. The expansion of Bustang services is designed to accommodate this growth and provide a seamless, reliable mode of transportation across the state. Not only does the service now cater to more travelers, but it also offers new routes that connect travelers to regions that were previously underserved by public transit.

New Bustang Routes

One of the key highlights of the Bustang service expansion is the introduction of new routes. These new routes have been carefully selected based on public demand, population growth, and the desire for more regional connectivity. Below are the major new routes introduced with the expansion.

1. Denver to Grand Junction

One of the most anticipated new routes is the Denver to Grand Junction line. Grand Junction, located in western Colorado, has long been a hub for tourism, business, and travel. However, it has historically been a bit of a challenge to access from Denver, especially for those without their own vehicles.

The new Bustang route from Denver to Grand Junction is set to significantly improve connectivity between these two cities. With this new service, travelers can now easily take a comfortable bus ride from downtown Denver all the way to Grand Junction, without the need to endure the long, often stressful drive through the mountains.

This route will open up more travel opportunities for people visiting Grand Junction for business or leisure, as well as those who simply wish to avoid the burden of driving. Grand Junction’s proximity to popular destinations such as the Colorado National Monument and Grand Mesa will also make it an attractive option for tourists who want to explore western Colorado.

2. Colorado Springs to Pueblo

Another key addition is the new route connecting Colorado Springs and Pueblo. Both cities are located along the I-25 corridor, a major north-south highway in Colorado, and have seen significant growth in recent years.

The Colorado Springs to Pueblo route addresses the growing demand for easier access between these two cities. As Colorado Springs continues to grow in terms of population, business, and tourism, providing a seamless transit option to nearby Pueblo is a logical next step.

This route is particularly beneficial for residents who may need to travel for work or personal reasons, as well as tourists who wish to explore the cultural and historic sites in both cities. For instance, travelers can visit Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs or explore Pueblo’s thriving arts scene. By offering an affordable and convenient option to travel between these two cities, Bustang makes it easier for travelers to enjoy the best of both worlds.

3. Fort Collins to Boulder

With the growing population in Fort Collins and Boulder, there has been an increasing need for public transportation between these two cities. The Fort Collins to Boulder route is an important expansion in the Bustang network, as both cities have become popular destinations for young professionals, students, and outdoor enthusiasts.

This route provides easy access to the natural beauty surrounding these cities, such as hiking and biking trails, while also supporting the local economies by making it easier for commuters and tourists to travel between the cities. It is also beneficial for students who attend Colorado State University in Fort Collins or University of Colorado Boulder, as it creates a convenient and affordable way for them to visit one another’s campuses.

4. Loveland to Denver

The new Loveland to Denver route connects the Northern Front Range with the Denver metro area, allowing travelers to easily access the state’s largest city. Loveland, a growing community located just north of Fort Collins, has seen an influx of new residents and businesses in recent years.

The Bustang service offers a practical solution for people living in Loveland who work or have business in Denver, as well as for those visiting the city’s vibrant cultural scene. Denver is known for its world-class museums, restaurants, and entertainment venues, so this route provides a significant opportunity for Loveland residents to take advantage of the city’s offerings without the need to drive.

What This Expansion Means for Travelers

The expansion of the Bustang service offers numerous benefits for travelers across Colorado, including convenience, affordability, and environmental sustainability. Here’s a closer look at what these changes mean for travelers.

1. More Accessibility

With the new routes, Bustang is making it easier for travelers to access a wider range of destinations throughout the state. Whether you’re commuting for work or embarking on a weekend getaway, these routes provide greater convenience and accessibility. Travelers who previously may have had to rely on multiple modes of transportation or endure long, difficult drives can now enjoy a direct, comfortable bus ride.

2. Cost-Effective Travel

In addition to providing convenience, Bustang offers a cost-effective travel option. While the price of gasoline continues to rise, public transportation services like Bustang remain a more affordable alternative. Travelers can save money on fuel, parking, and tolls by choosing to take the bus instead of driving. For families, students, and tourists, this can make travel more affordable and accessible.

3. Environmental Benefits

Bustang’s expansion also aligns with Colorado’s commitment to sustainability. By providing a viable alternative to driving, Bustang helps reduce the number of cars on the road, which in turn reduces congestion and lowers carbon emissions. For environmentally conscious travelers, this is a significant benefit.

4. Better Connectivity Between Cities

The new routes allow for better connectivity between Colorado’s key cities and regions. For instance, travelers who live in Grand Junction can now visit Denver more easily, and those living in the Northern Front Range have a more direct route into the Denver metro area. This connectivity promotes not only travel but also economic growth, as people can more easily access job opportunities, cultural events, and services in different parts of the state.

5. Increased Tourism

Tourism is a major industry in Colorado, and the expansion of Bustang services makes it easier for visitors to access the state’s most popular destinations. From the mountains to the plains, Colorado offers diverse landscapes and activities that attract tourists from all over the world. The new Bustang routes will likely lead to an increase in tourism, as travelers are more likely to visit if there’s a convenient and affordable way to get around.

Conclusion

The expansion of Bustang services in Colorado represents a significant step forward for public transportation in the state. With new routes and enhanced connectivity, Bustang is making it easier for travelers to get around and explore everything Colorado has to offer. Whether you’re a resident commuting to work or a tourist looking to visit new destinations, Bustang offers a comfortable, affordable, and sustainable way to travel.

As Bustang continues to grow and evolve, the impact on Colorado’s transportation landscape will only increase. For travelers, this means more options, more convenience, and a greater opportunity to enjoy the beautiful and diverse state of Colorado.

Key Takeaways:

• Bustang is a state-run intercity bus service in Colorado, providing an affordable and sustainable transportation option.
• The service has recently expanded to include new routes that connect major cities and regions across Colorado.
• These new routes include Denver to Grand Junction, Colorado Springs to Pueblo, Fort Collins to Boulder, and Loveland to Denver.
• The expansion of Bustang makes travel more accessible, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly for residents and tourists alike.
• With increased connectivity, more tourists are likely to visit Colorado, contributing to the state’s economy and tourism industry.

As Colorado’s transportation network continues to evolve, Bustang will play a crucial role in shaping how people travel within the state. Whether you’re commuting for work, visiting family, or exploring new destinations, Bustang is becoming an even more integral part of the state’s infrastructure.