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DEN to HDN Turbulence Forecast

Is the Denver to Steamboat Springs flight turbulent? Live forecast & historical patterns.

Live forecast
DEN
→
HDN
Denver · Steamboat Springs · 0h 57m
71
Turb Score
0h 57m
Duration
155 nm
Distance
26,000 ft
Cruise Alt.
Moderate
Typical
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Typical turbulence along the route

Historical average pattern for DEN–HDN

Smooth Light Moderate
0h1h2h3h4h5h6h0h 57m
Smooth
Light
Moderate
Heavy

About the DEN–HDN route

The Denver to Steamboat Springs route crosses the Rocky Mountains — one of the most turbulent regions in North America. Mountain wave turbulence occurs when strong winds blow over mountain peaks, creating powerful invisible waves that extend to cruise altitude. The worst turbulence typically occurs in the first 30–60 minutes when the aircraft is climbing over the range.

The route is served by United Airlines on Embraer E175 aircraft, with flights typically cruising at 26,000 feet over a distance of 178 miles (155 nautical miles).

💡 Tip: Mountain wave turbulence hits early. If flying over Rockies, expect the first hour to be bumpy.

Turbulence levels on DEN–HDN

What to expect at each phase of the flight

SmoothDeparture & arrival — climb and descent phases are generally calm
LightMinor bumps — drink stays in your cup, walking feels slightly unsteady
ModerateNoticeable bumps — stay seated with seatbelt on, service may pause
HeavyStrong jolts — unsecured items move, crew seated. Rare but possible

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Best time to fly DEN–HDN

Turbulence by month

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Smooth
Light
Moderate
Rough

Best seat on DEN–HDN

Embraer E175

Front
Rows 1–3
Light
✓ Wing
Rows 4–8
Smoothest
Rear
Rows 9+
Rougher
Wing seats are over the center of gravity — least affected by turbulence.

What you'll see in the app

Full forecast, live map & seat recommendations

DEN to HDN turbulence forecast app
Flight turbulence tracker
Real-time turbulence map

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All DEN routes→ All HDN routes→

Frequently asked questions

Is the Denver to Steamboat Springs flight turbulent?
The DEN–HDN route typically experiences moderate turbulence. Heavy turbulence likely — stay seated with seatbelt fastened. The turbulence score for this route is 71/100.
When is turbulence worst on DEN to HDN?
Mountain wave turbulence hits early. If flying over Rockies, expect the first hour to be bumpy. Check the turbulence chart above for the typical pattern along this specific route.
Which seat is smoothest on DEN to HDN?
Wing seats are always the smoothest. On a Embraer E175 (the most common aircraft on this route), that's rows 4–8. Avoid the very rear of the aircraft — it amplifies turbulence motion.
How long is the flight from DEN to HDN?
The DEN to HDN flight takes approximately 0h 57m, covering 178 miles (155 nautical miles).
Which airlines fly DEN to HDN?
The main airlines operating this route are United Airlines, flying Embraer E175 aircraft.