While takeoff scenery is minimal on both sides over flat Illinois farmland, the right side's payoff comes on descent into Denver, where the Front Range mountains dominate the view during the final approach — a dramatic contrast the left side never matches.
Flown ORD to DEN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chicago to Denver is 886 miles (1,426 km), a flight of about 2 hours 35 minutes.
The route crosses the Mississippi River near the Quad Cities, Iowa's farmland patchwork, the Missouri River at Omaha/Council Bluffs, and the Platte River valley across Nebraska before the High Plains rise gradually toward the Front Range foothills near the Colorado border.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORD
LEFTWestbound departures off ORD's east-west runways typically require a slight left turn onto the Denver course, which can swing the wing toward downtown Chicago and its western suburbs briefly visible in the haze. The right side only shows flat farmland with nothing distinctive.
Landing at DEN
RIGHTDEN's prevailing south-facing landing pattern (17-series runways) means the final approach heads south, putting the Front Range mountains squarely on the right side of the aircraft. Passengers get a sustained view of the Rockies rising abruptly from the plains as the city and airport come into view below.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Denver International (DEN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Denver. While takeoff scenery is minimal on both sides over flat Illinois farmland, the right side's payoff comes on descent into Denver, where the Front Range mountains dominate the view during the final approach — a dramatic contrast the left side never matches.
What can I see during takeoff from Chicago Ohare International in Chicago?
During takeoff from Chicago Ohare International (ORD), sit on the Left side for the best views. Westbound departures off ORD's east-west runways typically require a slight left turn onto the Denver course, which can swing the wing toward downtown Chicago and its western suburbs briefly visible in the haze. The right side only shows flat farmland with nothing distinctive. Notable sights include: Chicago skyline in the distance (Willis Tower), western suburbs like Oak Park and Elmhurst, the grid-like farmland of DuPage County.
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. DEN's prevailing south-facing landing pattern (17-series runways) means the final approach heads south, putting the Front Range mountains squarely on the right side of the aircraft. Passengers get a sustained view of the Rockies rising abruptly from the plains as the city and airport come into view below. Notable sights include: Front Range peaks including Longs Peak and Mount Evans, the sudden mountain wall behind the Denver skyline, high plains transitioning into foothills.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Denver?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Denver International (DEN) takes about 2 hours 35 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 886 miles (1,426 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chicago to Denver flight path pass over?
The route crosses the Mississippi River near the Quad Cities, Iowa's farmland patchwork, the Missouri River at Omaha/Council Bluffs, and the Platte River valley across Nebraska before the High Plains rise gradually toward the Front Range foothills near the Colorado border.