Abortion Travel Guide: Grand Forks to Boulder, CO
If you are traveling from the Grand Forks and eastern North Dakota area for abortion care, Boulder Valley Health Center (BVHC) is here to support you every step of the way.
Accessing abortion care in North Dakota has become a significant challenge following the State Supreme Court’s decision to uphold a near-total ban.
BVHC provides a safe, single-visit option in Boulder, Colorado, designed specifically for patients traveling long distances.
For detailed information about North Dakota abortion laws and Colorado’s legal protections, please visit our North Dakota Care Resources Page.
Planning Your Travel from Grand Forks to Boulder, CO
While this guide focuses on Grand Forks, we provide dedicated support for patients traveling from Grand Forks and surrounding communities, including East Grand Forks, Fargo, Devils Lake, and Crookston (MN). Wherever you’re coming from in Idaho, traveling to Colorado provides clarity, speed, and full access to care.
Flying to Denver
Grand Forks International Airport (GFK) offers limited commercial service, so many patients choose nearby larger airports for more flexible scheduling and lower travel costs to Denver International Airport (DEN).
Grand Forks International Airport (GFK):
- Primarily one-stop flights, often connecting through Minneapolis–Saint Paul (MSP).
Alternative Airports:
- Fargo Hector International Airport (FAR): About 1.5 hours south; larger hub with more frequent connections to Denver.
- Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP): Approximately 3.5 hours southeast; major hub with many direct flights.
Flight Time:
- Non-stop flights average approximately 2 hours.
- One-stop flights typically range from 4-6 hours depending on connections.
Ground Transit from DEN to Boulder (45 minutes):
- RTD SkyRide Bus (AB Route): Direct, affordable transportation between DEN and Boulder.
- Ride-sharing Services/Taxis: Uber and Lyft operate regularly from the airport.
- Rental Car: Multiple agencies are available onsite at DEN if you prefer private transportation.
Driving from the Grand Forks Area to Boulder
Some patients prefer to drive, especially when traveling with a trusted support person or needing flexible travel timing.
Distance: Approx. 1200 miles
Driving Time: Roughly 18-20 hours of active driving.
Common Route: Most patients travel south via I-29 through South Dakota, then west via I-90 and I-25 in Wyoming into Colorado toward Boulder.
Overnight Stay: Depending on your pace of travel, planning one overnight stop will ensure you arrive rested and prepared for your appointment.
Parking at BVHC: If you are driving your own vehicle from the Grand Forks area, our clinic offers private, accessible parking specifically reserved for out-of-state patients.
Packing for Your Trip
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
- Phone, earbuds, and charger
- A book or quiet activity
- Pads and extra underwear
- Personal comfort items for rest or travel
Patient Support: Our patient navigator team can help you plan arrival and departure times that align with your appointment, often minimizing the need for overnight lodging.
Single-Visit Appointment Model: Whenever medically appropriate, we prioritize out of state travelers for single-day appointments so consultation and procedure can be completed in one visit.
Local Support for Grand Forks Residents
Traveling out of North Dakota for abortion care can feel overwhelming, but support is available.
Reputable North Dakota Support Organizations:
- Prairie Abortion Fund: Direct financial assistance and practical travel support.
- Justice Empowerment Network (JEN): Practical support for patients in the Dakotas region.
- National Abortion Federation (NAF): Our financial navigators can help coordinate national funding assistance when you schedule your appointment.
BVHC Financial Navigators
When you call to schedule, mention you are traveling from out-of-state. We can help you explore financial assistance options and discuss payment options to reduce stress.
Why Choose Boulder Valley Health Center?
Many patients from Grand Forks choose BVHC for the following reasons:
Faster Access: We often have appointments available within 7 days, compared to longer wait times in neighboring states with limited clinic availability.
Single-Visit Care: Our care model is specifically structured for long-distance travelers, minimizing repeat trips and time away from home.
Legal Protection: Abortion is legal and constitutionally protected in Colorado under state Shield Laws, providing strong protections for out-of-state patients.
Trusted Experience: Founded in 1973, BVHC is Colorado’s first abortion clinic, with more than 50 years of experience serving patients from across North Dakota.
Privacy & Confidentiality: Your medical information is kept strictly confidential and never shared without your consent.
Contact Boulder Valley Health Center
If you’re considering traveling to Boulder for abortion services, please call us to discuss and schedule an appointment. Unfortunately, we can NOT schedule abortion appointments online.
We’re here to answer your questions and provide high-quality, affordable, supportive, and respectful healthcare to all our patients.
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm | Saturdays 8:30 am – 1:00 pm MT
Location: 2855 Valmont Road, Boulder, CO 80301
Additional Questions?
We understand that traveling for healthcare is a big decision. For detailed answers regarding medical safety, what to expect during your procedure, and aftercare, please visit our full guide for Out-of-State Patients.