Denver, CO to Dallas, TX
781-mile freight corridor via I-25 S to US-287 S through Raton Pass, US-287/US-81 into Dallas. 2 days transit. Challenging difficulty.
Distance
781 mi
Transit Time
2 days
Difficulty
Toll Cost
$0
Average Rates Per Mile
| Equipment | Rate/Mile | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Van | $2.10 | $1,640.1 |
| Reefer | $2.55 | $1,991.55 |
| Flatbed | $2.75 | $2,147.75 |
Rates are approximate averages and vary by season, demand, and broker. Always verify current spot rates on DAT or Truckstop.
Route Details
Recommended Route
I-25 S to US-287 S through Raton Pass, US-287/US-81 into Dallas
Fuel Stops
4 recommended
Tolls
$0
Common Freight Types
Backhaul Information
Good Backhaul Availability
Average backhaul rate: $1.85/mi
Common return cargo: Electronics, consumer goods, building materials from DFW distribution centers
Key Stops Along the Route
Denver, CO
Origin
Colorado Springs, CO
Trinidad, CO
Raton, NM
Amarillo, TX
Wichita Falls, TX
Dallas, TX
Destination
Seasonal Trends
Denver's booming economy creates consistent southbound demand. Colorado craft beer and natural products head to DFW year-round. Winter on Raton Pass (7,834 ft) can require chains November-March.
Trucker Tips for This Lane
Raton Pass on I-25 at the CO/NM border is steep (7% grade) and gets heavy snow. Check NMDOT conditions before committing to this route in winter.
The US-287 route through Amarillo is more direct but the road quality south of Amarillo is rough. The I-40/I-35 alternate adds 50 miles but is all interstate.
Amarillo truck stops (Love's on I-40, Pilot on I-27) are good overnight spots. The Texas Panhandle has limited services between them.
Colorado has strict chain laws. Carry chains even if you think you will not need them -- the fine for non-compliance is steep.
Wind across the Texas Panhandle and eastern New Mexico is brutal. Empty trailers and high-profile loads are at serious risk of rollover.