About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Denver International (DEN) to Reno Tahoe International (RNO)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Denver to Reno. The left side delivers the Front Range panorama on departure and the Sierra Nevada and Lake Tahoe on descent into Reno. The right side offers the Wasatch Range over Utah but the left side has more consistently dramatic scenery across the full 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 16R/34L or uses runways oriented north-south. On a westbound departure toward Reno, the left side faces south, giving a clear view of the Front Range of the Rockies including Pikes Peak and the Denver metro sprawl. The right side looks north toward flat plains with little of interest. Notable sights include: Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, Pikes Peak (14,115 ft) to the south, Denver city grid and downtown skyline, Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge wetlands.
What can I see when landing at Reno Tahoe International in Reno?
When landing at Reno Tahoe International (RNO), sit on the Left side for the best views. RNO typically lands on runway 16R from the north, meaning the aircraft approaches from the north-northeast heading south. The left side faces east toward the Virginia Range and the Truckee Meadows valley floor. However, on a westbound arrival from Denver, the left side during descent gives the better view of Lake Tahoe to the southwest and the Sierra Nevada crest, which is the dominant visual feature of this approach. Notable sights include: Lake Tahoe (visible to the southwest during descent), Sierra Nevada crest, Truckee Meadows valley floor with Reno city grid, Pyramid Lake to the north.
How long is the flight from Denver to Reno?
The flight from Denver International (DEN) to Reno Tahoe International (RNO) takes Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Denver to Reno flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Wasatch Range east of Salt Lake City, the Great Salt Lake (visible as a large pale flat body to the north if routing allows), the Nevada Basin and Range province with parallel north-south mountain ridges and dry playas, the Ruby Mountains of northeastern Nevada, and the Humboldt River valley before descending into the Truckee Meadows.