While takeoff offers good valley views on the right, the landing descent provides superior scenery with the dramatic Front Range rising before you. The left side captures the most visually striking portion of the flight path.
Flown MSO to BJC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Missoula to Denver is 660 miles (1,063 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Northern Rocky Mountains and high plains. Notable features include the Flathead National Forest region, the Mission Mountains, the Absaroka Range (distant), and the transition from forested mountain terrain to the high plains east of the Continental Divide. The Gallatin and Madison ranges may be visible to the southeast on clear days. The flight generally follows a southeasterly route, descending gradually as it approaches the Denver area and the Front Range.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from MSO
RIGHTRight-side seats offer immediate views of the Missoula Valley floor and the surrounding mountain ranges that frame the airport. As the aircraft climbs southbound, you'll see the Clark Fork River valley and the Sapphire Range to the east.
Landing at BJC
LEFTLeft-side seats provide the best views during the descent into Denver. You'll see the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains rising dramatically to the west, with the Continental Divide visible as a distinct ridgeline. The South Platte River valley and Denver's urban sprawl become increasingly visible as you descend.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Missoula Montana Airport (MSO) to Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (BJC)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Missoula to Denver. While takeoff offers good valley views on the right, the landing descent provides superior scenery with the dramatic Front Range rising before you. The left side captures the most visually striking portion of the flight path.
What can I see during takeoff from Missoula Montana Airport in Missoula?
During takeoff from Missoula Montana Airport (MSO), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer immediate views of the Missoula Valley floor and the surrounding mountain ranges that frame the airport. As the aircraft climbs southbound, you'll see the Clark Fork River valley and the Sapphire Range to the east. Notable sights include: Clark Fork River (visible as a winding ribbon through the valley), Sapphire Range (eastern ridgeline), Missoula urban area (receding below), Lolo Peak area to the southwest.
What can I see when landing at Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport in Denver?
When landing at Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (BJC), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide the best views during the descent into Denver. You'll see the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains rising dramatically to the west, with the Continental Divide visible as a distinct ridgeline. The South Platte River valley and Denver's urban sprawl become increasingly visible as you descend. Notable sights include: Front Range of the Rocky Mountains (dominant western skyline), South Platte River valley (running north-south), Denver metropolitan area (sprawling urban grid), Mount Evans or Mount Bierstadt peaks (visible on clear days as distant summits on the horizon).
How long is the flight from Missoula to Denver?
The flight from Missoula Montana Airport (MSO) to Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (BJC) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 660 miles (1,063 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Missoula to Denver flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Northern Rocky Mountains and high plains. Notable features include the Flathead National Forest region, the Mission Mountains, the Absaroka Range (distant), and the transition from forested mountain terrain to the high plains east of the Continental Divide. The Gallatin and Madison ranges may be visible to the southeast on clear days. The flight generally follows a southeasterly route, descending gradually as it approaches the Denver area and the Front Range.