While the takeoff offers dramatic mountain views, the landing approach provides the most memorable scenery—the Monterey Peninsula and Pacific coastline are visually distinctive and iconic. Right side captures both the approach descent and the coastal finale.
Flown DEN to MRY? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Denver to Monterey is 957 miles (1,541 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
San Luis Obispo County rolling hills, Salinas Valley agricultural region, Big Sur coastline (visible to the south on clear days during descent), Diablo Range foothills
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from DEN
LEFTLeft side offers immediate views of the Front Range and Rocky Mountains as the aircraft climbs westbound. The peaks rise dramatically to the west and northwest, creating a striking visual as you gain altitude over the Denver metro area.
Landing at MRY
RIGHTRight side provides excellent views of the Monterey Peninsula, Monterey Bay, and the Pacific coastline during the descent approach from the east. You'll see the distinctive hook shape of the peninsula and the bay's blue waters as you descend toward the runway.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Denver International (DEN) to Monterey Regional Airport (MRY)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Denver to Monterey. While the takeoff offers dramatic mountain views, the landing approach provides the most memorable scenery—the Monterey Peninsula and Pacific coastline are visually distinctive and iconic. Right side captures both the approach descent and the coastal finale.
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. Left side offers immediate views of the Front Range and Rocky Mountains as the aircraft climbs westbound. The peaks rise dramatically to the west and northwest, creating a striking visual as you gain altitude over the Denver metro area. Notable sights include: Front Range (Rocky Mountains), Denver metropolitan area sprawl, South Platte River valley, Pikes Peak (visible on clear days to the south).
What can I see when landing at Monterey Regional Airport in Monterey?
When landing at Monterey Regional Airport (MRY), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides excellent views of the Monterey Peninsula, Monterey Bay, and the Pacific coastline during the descent approach from the east. You'll see the distinctive hook shape of the peninsula and the bay's blue waters as you descend toward the runway. Notable sights include: Monterey Bay, Monterey Peninsula, Pacific Ocean, Santa Lucia Mountains (inland to the southeast).
How long is the flight from Denver to Monterey?
The flight from Denver International (DEN) to Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 957 miles (1,541 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Denver to Monterey flight path pass over?
San Luis Obispo County rolling hills, Salinas Valley agricultural region, Big Sur coastline (visible to the south on clear days during descent), Diablo Range foothills