While cruise is flat Great Plains scenery on both sides, the right side wins on both ends: a fleeting Des Moines skyline view at takeoff and, more importantly, a clear view of the Front Range mountains during the Denver approach, which the left side largely misses.
Flown DSM to DEN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Des Moines to Denver is 588 miles (947 km), a flight of about 1 hour 40 minutes.
Flat farmland and river valleys of southern Nebraska, including stretches of the Platte River, transitioning to the high plains of eastern Colorado before the Rockies come into view near Denver
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from DSM
RIGHTShortly after departure from DSM's primary runway, the right-side window offers a brief look at downtown Des Moines and the confluence of the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers before the plane settles into a west-southwest heading over flat Iowa farmland. The left side sees only featureless cropland during the turn.
Landing at DEN
RIGHTOn approach into Denver, aircraft commonly align with the north-south runways for a south-flow landing, putting the Front Range and Rocky Mountain foothills squarely on the right side of the cabin. Passengers get a clear view of the mountain wall rising abruptly from the plains, a dramatic contrast to the flat approach on the left side.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Des Moines International (DSM) to Denver International (DEN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Des Moines to Denver. While cruise is flat Great Plains scenery on both sides, the right side wins on both ends: a fleeting Des Moines skyline view at takeoff and, more importantly, a clear view of the Front Range mountains during the Denver approach, which the left side largely misses.
What can I see during takeoff from Des Moines International in Des Moines?
During takeoff from Des Moines International (DSM), sit on the Right side for the best views. Shortly after departure from DSM's primary runway, the right-side window offers a brief look at downtown Des Moines and the confluence of the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers before the plane settles into a west-southwest heading over flat Iowa farmland. The left side sees only featureless cropland during the turn. Notable sights include: Des Moines skyline, Des Moines River/Raccoon River confluence, patchwork Iowa farmland.
What can I see when landing at Denver International in Denver?
When landing at Denver International (DEN), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into Denver, aircraft commonly align with the north-south runways for a south-flow landing, putting the Front Range and Rocky Mountain foothills squarely on the right side of the cabin. Passengers get a clear view of the mountain wall rising abruptly from the plains, a dramatic contrast to the flat approach on the left side. Notable sights include: Front Range foothills, Longs Peak area to the north, Denver metro sprawl, high plains meeting the mountains.
How long is the flight from Des Moines to Denver?
The flight from Des Moines International (DSM) to Denver International (DEN) takes about 1 hour 40 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 588 miles (947 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Des Moines to Denver flight path pass over?
Flat farmland and river valleys of southern Nebraska, including stretches of the Platte River, transitioning to the high plains of eastern Colorado before the Rockies come into view near Denver