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BZN destination photo
MSP destination photo

BZNMSP

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers spectacular views of the rugged mountain ranges south of Bozeman, the forested Black Hills, and the dramatic erosion of the South Dakota Badlands.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness

Stunning views of high-altitude plateaus and some of the highest peaks in Montana just south of the flight path.

🌲

Black Hills

A dark, forested island of mountains in the plains, home to Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park.

🏜️

Badlands National Park

Look for the striking, striped sedimentary layers and sharply eroded buttes of the South Dakota Badlands.

🌊

Missouri River

A major geographic milestone where the rugged western terrain transitions into the fertile Midwestern farmland.

🌾

Minnesota River Valley

During the final descent, the wide valley and lush greenery of southern Minnesota are clearly visible.

The right side is the clear winner for geological diversity. To see the Badlands in their best light, choose a late afternoon or evening flight when the setting sun highlights the red and orange hues of the rock. Keep your eyes peeled about 45-60 minutes after departure for the transition from the Bighorn Mountains to the Black Hills.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏔️

Bridger Range

Visible immediately after takeoff, these mountains define the northern boundary of the Gallatin Valley.

⛰️

Crazy Mountains

An isolated and jagged mountain range that rises abruptly from the surrounding plains of central Montana.

💧

Lake Oahe

A massive reservoir on the Missouri River that stretches through the Dakotas with intricate shorelines.

🏙️

St. Cloud and Central MN

As the flight begins its descent, you can spot the growing urban centers and the winding Mississippi River.

🛶

Land of 10,000 Lakes

The final approach into MSP showcases the dense concentration of glacial lakes throughout Minnesota.

Sit on the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and enjoy softer lighting on the mountains. This side is also excellent for spotting the 'checkerboard' patterns of the northern Great Plains agriculture. Watch for the Missouri River crossing roughly halfway through the flight.

Top Activities in Minneapolis
Route Information

Distance: 1,402 km (871 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 52 min

Departure: BZN (45.77750015, -111.1529999)

Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)

Route Type: Domestic

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