Shortest Drive: Tucson, AZ to Denver, CO

Distance: ~1,040 miles (1,675 km)

Time: ~15 hours driving

Route: I-10 East → I-25 North (via Las Cruces, Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Colorado Springs)

Alternative: I-40 East → I-25 North (via Flagstaff, Albuquerque) – similar distance, more mountainous.

Plan fuel stops in NM; winter weather can close passes near Raton or Santa Fe.