DIA is a very large airport, one of the largest in the world. However, the systems dedicated to moving the people around inside the facilities are very comprehensive, and if you pay attention, and use the systems, you won't end up walking much, or taking much time to get somewhere. Obviously, there are a few exceptions to the rule, there are some real extremities inside the airport, but for the most part, you should be able to get from ticket counter to your gate in under 30 minutes. This sounds terrible, but considering that includes TSA, and security, that is pretty good. When you add the 3 - 5 mile distance between starting point and end point, you get a feel for the technology at work under your feet, that aren't moving.
Assuming you were dropped off at the right place, you have a 40 yard walk from your car to the ticket counter. If you were dropped off on the wrong side of the airport, you may have to walk about 1/4 of a mile to find your check in gate. All this can be alleviated if you fly light, check in online, and avoid the whole process altogether. Simply walk to your nearest security checkpoint, preprinted boarding passes, and proceed with ID through security. They check, don't mess with the TSA. Follow procedure or be singled out, and glide through because you followed the rules.
Click here for smoking lounge, info. No you don't even have to leave your beer. This is behind the security checkpoint. If you don't smoke, find the lounge closest to your gate, and then check your gate.
You have to walk a little between people moving, flat escalators, across the concourses. However, there is no reason to walk the whole way. If you are in a hurry, simply walk down these people movers to really cover some ground. When you suprisingly get there early, know you did well. Stop, and look around at the scenery.
Many gates, have power ports, so you can top off your electronic prior to take off. Otherwise, you can return to a nearby lounge, eatery, or gate to wait.
DIA is a very large airport, one of the largest in the world. However, the systems dedicated to moving the people around inside the facilities are very comprehensive, and if you pay attention, and use the systems, you won't end up walking much, or taking much time to get somewhere. Obviously, there are a few exceptions to the rule, there are some real extremities inside the airport, but for the most part, you should be able to get from ticket counter to your gate in under 30 minutes. This sounds terrible, but considering that includes TSA, and security, that is pretty good. When you add the 3 - 5 mile distance between starting point and end point, you get a feel for the technology at work under your feet, that aren't moving.
Assuming you were dropped off at the right place, you have a 40 yard walk from your car to the ticket counter. If you were dropped off on the wrong side of the airport, you may have to walk about 1/4 of a mile to find your check in gate. All this can be alleviated if you fly light, check in online, and avoid the whole process altogether. Simply walk to your nearest security checkpoint, preprinted boarding passes, and proceed with ID through security. They check, don't mess with the TSA. Follow procedure or be singled out, and glide through because you followed the rules. 
Click here for smoking lounge, info. No you don't even have to leave your beer. This is behind the security checkpoint. If you don't smoke, find the lounge closest to your gate, and then check your gate. 
You have to walk a little between people moving, flat escalators, across the concourses. However, there is no reason to walk the whole way. If you are in a hurry, simply walk down these people movers to really cover some ground. When you suprisingly get there early, know you did well. Stop, and look around at the scenery.