Navigating Denver International Airport (DEN) can overwhelm even seasoned flyers, especially when you're trying to find a gate or security checkpoint in Concourse A. Knowing your way around saves you from missed connections and frantic dashes across the tarmac.
Denver International Airport features a massive layout with three main concourses—A, B, and C—alongside the central Jeppesen Terminal. Concourse A serves a heavy mix of domestic and international carriers, and understanding its distinct layout is essential for a smooth journey. Whether you're arriving via the underground train or the pedestrian bridge, here's how to navigate Terminal A efficiently.
Understanding the Concourse A Layout
Concourse A runs east-west and is positioned between Concourses B and C. It's accessible via two methods from the main terminal: the subterranean underground automated guideway transit system (the airport train) or the outdoor pedestrian skybridge that opened a few years ago.
Gates in Concourse A span numbers A10 through A84. The numbering system is straightforward once you know the flow: lower numbers sit at the western end closest to the center train station, while higher numbers extend eastward.
- Western End (Gates A10–A35): Closest to the pedestrian bridge exit and the main train escalators. This zone handles high-volume boarding and features major airline service desks.
- Central Core (Gates A36–A60): The primary hub for dining, retail shops, and passenger amenities.
- Eastern End (Gates A61–A84): Typically dedicated to regional flights, commuter aircraft, and specific international arrivals requiring bus gates.
Getting from Jeppesen Terminal to Concourse A
You have two distinct paths to reach Concourse A from the main Jeppesen Terminal after clearing TSA security screening.
Taking the Underground Train
The fastest way to reach Concourse A is the underground train system. After passing through security in the North, South, or A-Bridge checkpoints, follow overhead signs down to the train platform.
- The ride from the main terminal to Concourse A takes approximately 60 seconds.
- Trains arrive every couple of minutes, operating 24/7.
- Exit the train at the very first stop (Concourse A).
Walking the Pedestrian Skybridge
If you prefer to stretch your legs or want to avoid potential train congestion during peak holiday rushes, use the pedestrian skybridge.
- The walkway connects the main terminal directly to Concourse A's upper level.
- It features moving walkways and offers sweeping views of the airfield and the Rocky Mountains.
- Walking takes about 5 to 10 minutes depending on your pace from the main security checkpoints.
Security Checkpoints and Wait Times
Denver International Airport operates multiple security checkpoints, and your choice impacts how quickly you reach your gate.
The North and South Security Checkpoints serve all concourses, while the dedicated A-Bridge Security Checkpoint lets passengers walk straight into Concourse A without taking the train. If you have TSA PreCheck or CLEAR, look for designated lanes at all checkpoints to cut down your wait time. Always check live wait time updates on the official Denver International Airport website before you leave home.
Amenities, Dining, and Lounge Access
Concourse A offers a wide array of amenities to keep you comfortable during layovers or delayed departures.
- Dining: You'll find local Colorado craft breweries, fast-casual eateries, and sit-down restaurants clustered primarily in the central rotunda between gates A30 and A50.
- Restrooms and Family Facilities: Family restrooms and nursing pods are situated near Gate A34 and Gate A71.
- Pet Relief Areas: If you're traveling with a service animal or pet, an indoor post-security animal relief room is located near Gate A43.
- Lounges: Airline clubs, including the Delta Sky Club and United Club (depending on current gate allocations and seasonal routing), offer quiet workspaces, complimentary snacks, and beverages. Check your specific airline's app for exact operational hours.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Travelers frequently run into avoidable hurdles at DEN due to simple oversights. Keep these pitfalls in mind to protect your schedule:
- Assuming all concourses connect airside via walking paths: While Concourse A now has a pedestrian bridge to the main terminal, you cannot walk between Concourses A, B, and C airside. You must use the underground train to move between concourses.
- Ignoring last-minute gate changes: DEN frequently reassigns gates to accommodate tight air traffic schedules. Check the overhead monitors even if you flew into the same gate last week.
- Cutting arrival times too close: Because of DEN's immense passenger volume and security checkpoint queues, arriving only one hour before a domestic flight puts you at high risk of missing boarding. Aim for two hours before domestic departures and three hours for international flights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I walk between Concourse A and Concourse B?
No. There are no pedestrian walkways connecting the concourses airside. You must take the underground train system back to the main terminal level or use the designated transit platform to switch concourses.
Where is baggage claim located for Terminal A flights?
All baggage claim carousels are located on Level 5 of the main Jeppesen Terminal. When you land at Concourse A, take the underground train back to the main terminal and follow signs down to Level 5 to retrieve your checked bags.
Are there sleeping areas in Concourse A?
While DEN does not feature a dedicated sleep hotel airside, Concourse A offers numerous multi-seat benches without armrests, quiet corners near the higher-numbered gates, and comfortable seating in the various airline lounges if you hold qualifying access.
How do I get to rental cars or ground transportation from Concourse A?
After exiting Concourse A via the train, head to the main terminal and follow signs down to Level 5 for baggage claim, island 5 for app-based rideshares (Uber and Lyft), or the designated taxi and shuttle booths located on the outer curbs. For more details on ground transit, consult the Colorado Department of Transportation.
