Right-side seats win overall because the takeoff scenery—the Teton Range and Jackson Lake—is more visually dramatic and distinctive than the landing approach. The landing view is pleasant but more subtle terrain. Right seats capture the flight's most memorable moment.
Flown JAC to DEN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Jackson to Denver is 406 miles (653 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
As the aircraft climbs to cruising altitude and heads southeast, you'll pass over the Absaroka Range to the east of Jackson, then cross into the high plains of central Wyoming. The Green River basin and its associated ridges become visible in the midpoint of the flight. The landscape transitions from mountainous terrain to rolling high plains. By mid-flight, the aircraft is typically at 25,000-30,000 feet, and individual landmarks become smaller, but the broad topography of the Wyoming basin is still apparent. As you approach Denver from the northwest, the Front Range becomes increasingly prominent on the left, and the high plains flatten out noticeably.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from JAC
RIGHTRight-side seats offer immediate views of the Teton Range as the aircraft climbs out northeastward. The dramatic peaks dominate the early climb, and you'll see Jackson Lake and the Snake River valley spreading below.
Landing at DEN
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during the descent approach into Denver from the northwest. You'll see the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains in profile, and as you descend further, the South Platte River and the Denver metropolitan area come into view.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) to Denver International (DEN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Jackson to Denver. Right-side seats win overall because the takeoff scenery—the Teton Range and Jackson Lake—is more visually dramatic and distinctive than the landing approach. The landing view is pleasant but more subtle terrain. Right seats capture the flight's most memorable moment.
What can I see during takeoff from Jackson Hole Airport in Jackson?
During takeoff from Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer immediate views of the Teton Range as the aircraft climbs out northeastward. The dramatic peaks dominate the early climb, and you'll see Jackson Lake and the Snake River valley spreading below. Notable sights include: Grand Teton (13,775 ft), Jackson Lake, Snake River valley, Gros Ventre Range to the east.
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 from the northwest. You'll see the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains in profile, and as you descend further, the South Platte River and the Denver metropolitan area come into view. Notable sights include: Front Range peaks (Mount Evans, Mount Bierstadt visible on clear days), South Platte River, Denver downtown skyline, Cherry Creek.
How long is the flight from Jackson to Denver?
The flight from Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) to Denver International (DEN) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 406 miles (653 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Jackson to Denver flight path pass over?
As the aircraft climbs to cruising altitude and heads southeast, you'll pass over the Absaroka Range to the east of Jackson, then cross into the high plains of central Wyoming. The Green River basin and its associated ridges become visible in the midpoint of the flight. The landscape transitions from mountainous terrain to rolling high plains. By mid-flight, the aircraft is typically at 25,000-30,000 feet, and individual landmarks become smaller, but the broad topography of the Wyoming basin is still apparent. As you approach Denver from the northwest, the Front Range becomes increasingly prominent on the left, and the high plains flatten out noticeably.