About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Denver International (DEN) to Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Denver to Minneapolis. The left side delivers the most dramatic view at both ends of the flight — the Rocky Mountain Front Range on departure and the Minneapolis lakes and river confluence on arrival. The right side offers only flat plains for most of the journey.
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 eastward on runways 16R/34L or 8/26, but when departing west or northwest toward MSP, the left side faces south and southwest, giving a clear view of the Front Range of the Rockies including Pikes Peak and the Denver metro sprawl. Even on eastward departures, the left side catches the full Rocky Mountain panorama as the aircraft banks north. Notable sights include: Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, Pikes Peak to the south, Denver downtown skyline, Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge wetlands.
What can I see when landing at Minneapolis St Paul International in Minneapolis?
When landing at Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP), sit on the Left side for the best views. MSP typically lands on runways 12L/30R or 17/35. Approaches from the west or southwest on runway 30R bring the left side over the Minneapolis city lakes district and downtown Minneapolis skyline before touchdown. The left side also gets views of the Minnesota River confluence with the Mississippi River on final approach. Notable sights include: Downtown Minneapolis skyline, Chain of Lakes (Lake Calhoun/Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet), Mississippi and Minnesota River confluence, Fort Snelling area.
How long is the flight from Denver to Minneapolis?
The flight from Denver International (DEN) to Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP) takes Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Denver to Minneapolis flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the high plains of eastern Colorado and Nebraska, then into southern Minnesota. Terrain is predominantly flat agricultural land — corn and soybean fields in large rectangular parcels. The Missouri River may be visible crossing into Nebraska/South Dakota border region. Sioux Falls, South Dakota appears as a modest urban grid if routing takes a slightly northern track. No significant mountain or water features in the mid-flight segment.