The right side captures the dramatic Front Range departure and, during cruise, passes closer to the high peaks of the Sawatch Range including Mt. Elbert and Mt. Massive, Colorado's tallest summits, giving it a slight edge over the left side's strong but shorter San Juan approach view.
Flown DEN to MTJ? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Denver to Montrose is 196 miles (316 km), a flight of about 1 hour.
Continental Divide, Sawatch Range with Mt. Elbert and Mt. Massive, Collegiate Peaks corridor near Leadville and Buena Vista, distant Elk Mountains near Aspen
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from DEN
RIGHTDEN typically departs south on the 17-series runways before turning west toward the mountains, putting the Front Range and Longs Peak on the right side during the initial climb. The left side mostly shows Denver's eastern suburbs and flat plains.
Landing at MTJ
LEFTOn approach to MTJ's runway 17/35 down the Uncompahgre Valley, the jagged San Juan Mountains dominate the view to the left/east, including peaks near the Ridgway and Ouray area, while the right side shows the more subdued Uncompahgre Plateau.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Denver International (DEN) to Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Denver to Montrose. The right side captures the dramatic Front Range departure and, during cruise, passes closer to the high peaks of the Sawatch Range including Mt. Elbert and Mt. Massive, Colorado's tallest summits, giving it a slight edge over the left side's strong but shorter San Juan approach view.
What can I see during takeoff from Denver International in Denver?
During takeoff from Denver International (DEN), sit on the Right side for the best views. DEN typically departs south on the 17-series runways before turning west toward the mountains, putting the Front Range and Longs Peak on the right side during the initial climb. The left side mostly shows Denver's eastern suburbs and flat plains. Notable sights include: Front Range foothills, Longs Peak, Denver metro sprawl fading below.
What can I see when landing at Montrose Regional Airport in Montrose?
When landing at Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ), sit on the Left side for the best views. On approach to MTJ's runway 17/35 down the Uncompahgre Valley, the jagged San Juan Mountains dominate the view to the left/east, including peaks near the Ridgway and Ouray area, while the right side shows the more subdued Uncompahgre Plateau. Notable sights include: San Juan Mountains, Uncompahgre Valley farmland, Ouray-area peaks.
How long is the flight from Denver to Montrose?
The flight from Denver International (DEN) to Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) takes about 1 hour. The shortest flight path between them is 196 miles (316 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Denver to Montrose flight path pass over?
Continental Divide, Sawatch Range with Mt. Elbert and Mt. Massive, Collegiate Peaks corridor near Leadville and Buena Vista, distant Elk Mountains near Aspen