About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Denver International (DEN) to Los Angeles International (LAX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Denver to Los Angeles. The right side wins overall because the LAX arrival view over the Los Angeles Basin is one of the most visually rich urban approaches in the US. While the left side has the better Rocky Mountain departure view, the right side still catches the Mojave Desert and San Gabriel Mountains during the cruise descent, and then delivers the spectacular LA Basin arrival. Right-side passengers get compelling views across more of the flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Denver International in Denver?
During takeoff from Denver International (DEN), sit on the Left side for the best views. DEN typically departs westbound on runway 16L/34R or uses east-west runways. On a westbound departure toward LAX, the left (south) side gives you a direct broadside view of the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, including Pikes Peak and the Denver metro sprawl below. The right side faces north toward open plains with far less visual interest. Notable sights include: Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, Pikes Peak (14,115 ft), Denver metro grid, Cherry Creek Reservoir.
What can I see when landing at Los Angeles International in Los Angeles?
When landing at Los Angeles International (LAX), sit on the Right side for the best views. LAX approaches from the east over the Los Angeles Basin on runway 24L/24R heading west. The right (north) side gives you a sweeping view of the LA Basin, downtown Los Angeles skyline, Santa Monica Mountains, and the Pacific Ocean coastline as you descend over the city. The left side faces south toward less distinctive suburban sprawl and Long Beach. Notable sights include: Downtown Los Angeles skyline, Santa Monica Mountains, Pacific Ocean coastline, Santa Monica Bay.
How long is the flight from Denver to Los Angeles?
The flight from Denver International (DEN) to Los Angeles International (LAX) takes Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes.
What does the Denver to Los Angeles flight path pass over?
The flight tracks southwest over the Colorado Rockies and San Juan Mountains, then crosses the high desert plateau of the Colorado Plateau and the Navajo Nation. The Grand Canyon is typically visible to the north on the right side. The route then crosses the Mojave Desert — flat, pale, and vast — before the San Gabriel Mountains and San Bernardino Mountains appear as a significant east-west barrier just before the LA Basin descent.