While takeoff offers scenic coastal views, the landing approach into Denver provides more dramatic and sustained mountain scenery. The Rocky Mountain Front Range is one of the most visually striking features on this route, and right-side seats capture it best during descent.
Flown MRY to DEN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Monterey to Denver is 957 miles (1,541 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Colorado Plateau and the San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado. Notable features include the Uncompahgre Plateau, the Gunnison River valley, and the transition from high desert terrain to the Rocky Mountain Front Range as you approach Denver from the west.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from MRY
LEFTLeft seats offer immediate views of Monterey Bay and the Pacific coastline as the aircraft climbs out over water. You'll see the distinctive curve of the bay, the Monterey Peninsula, and the rugged Big Sur coastline extending south.
Landing at DEN
RIGHTRight seats provide excellent views during the descent into Denver as the aircraft approaches from the west. You'll see the Rocky Mountains rising dramatically, with the Front Range peaks becoming increasingly prominent as you descend toward the high plains.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) to Denver International (DEN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Monterey to Denver. While takeoff offers scenic coastal views, the landing approach into Denver provides more dramatic and sustained mountain scenery. The Rocky Mountain Front Range is one of the most visually striking features on this route, and right-side seats capture it best during descent.
What can I see during takeoff from Monterey Regional Airport in Monterey?
During takeoff from Monterey Regional Airport (MRY), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left seats offer immediate views of Monterey Bay and the Pacific coastline as the aircraft climbs out over water. You'll see the distinctive curve of the bay, the Monterey Peninsula, and the rugged Big Sur coastline extending south. Notable sights include: Monterey Bay, Pacific Ocean, Monterey Peninsula, Big Sur coastline.
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. Right seats provide excellent views during the descent into Denver as the aircraft approaches from the west. You'll see the Rocky Mountains rising dramatically, with the Front Range peaks becoming increasingly prominent as you descend toward the high plains. Notable sights include: Rocky Mountains Front Range, South Platte River valley, Denver metropolitan area, high plains.
How long is the flight from Monterey to Denver?
The flight from Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) to Denver International (DEN) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 957 miles (1,541 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Monterey to Denver flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Colorado Plateau and the San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado. Notable features include the Uncompahgre Plateau, the Gunnison River valley, and the transition from high desert terrain to the Rocky Mountain Front Range as you approach Denver from the west.