While takeoff offers good mountain views on the right, the landing approach on the left provides more sustained and dramatic scenery of the Front Range and the visual contrast between the High Plains and the Rocky Mountains. The descent into Denver is the more visually rewarding segment of this route.
Flown GTF to DEN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Great Falls to Denver is 623 miles (1,003 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the northern Colorado Front Range, passing over or near the Medicine Bow Mountains and the Laramie Range. The South Platte River headwaters and the Cache la Poudre River drainage are visible from altitude in the midpoint of the flight. The transition from Montana's intermontane basins to Colorado's high plateaus and the Front Range uplift is the dominant geographical feature of the route.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from GTF
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Rocky Mountain Front as the aircraft climbs southbound. The dramatic escarpment of the Mission Mountains and Bob Marshall Wilderness become visible within minutes of departure, providing striking contrast between the high peaks and the Great Falls valley floor.
Landing at DEN
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during the descent approach into Denver. The Front Range of the Rocky Mountains dominates the western horizon, and as the aircraft descends on a northeasterly approach, passengers see the dramatic uplift of the Laramie Range and the transition from high peaks to the Denver metropolitan area sprawling across the High Plains.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Great Falls International (GTF) to Denver International (DEN)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Great Falls to Denver. While takeoff offers good mountain views on the right, the landing approach on the left provides more sustained and dramatic scenery of the Front Range and the visual contrast between the High Plains and the Rocky Mountains. The descent into Denver is the more visually rewarding segment of this route.
What can I see during takeoff from Great Falls International in Great Falls?
During takeoff from Great Falls International (GTF), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Rocky Mountain Front as the aircraft climbs southbound. The dramatic escarpment of the Mission Mountains and Bob Marshall Wilderness become visible within minutes of departure, providing striking contrast between the high peaks and the Great Falls valley floor. Notable sights include: Mission Mountains, Bob Marshall Wilderness, Missouri River valley, Great Falls urban area receding below.
What can I see when landing at Denver International in Denver?
When landing at Denver International (DEN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during the descent approach into Denver. The Front Range of the Rocky Mountains dominates the western horizon, and as the aircraft descends on a northeasterly approach, passengers see the dramatic uplift of the Laramie Range and the transition from high peaks to the Denver metropolitan area sprawling across the High Plains. Notable sights include: Front Range (including Mount Evans and Longs Peak area), South Platte River valley, Denver metropolitan sprawl, High Plains extending eastward.
How long is the flight from Great Falls to Denver?
The flight from Great Falls International (GTF) to Denver International (DEN) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 623 miles (1,003 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Great Falls to Denver flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the northern Colorado Front Range, passing over or near the Medicine Bow Mountains and the Laramie Range. The South Platte River headwaters and the Cache la Poudre River drainage are visible from altitude in the midpoint of the flight. The transition from Montana's intermontane basins to Colorado's high plateaus and the Front Range uplift is the dominant geographical feature of the route.