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CEZ → DEN
Which side of the plane to sit from Cortez Municipal Airport (Cortez) to Denver International Airport (Denver)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side (South) offers a superior perspective of the most rugged portions of the San Juan Mountains and the expansive Weminuche Wilderness before approaching the iconic Front Range peaks.
Mesa Verde
Distant views of the high mesa plateaus that house the world-famous ancient cliff dwellings.
Weminuche Wilderness
The most rugged and remote part of the Colorado Rockies, featuring numerous 14,000-foot peaks.
San Luis Valley
A massive, high-altitude alpine valley visible to the south as you cross the Continental Divide.
Pikes Peak
The famous 'America's Mountain' stands out prominently as the flight nears the Front Range corridor.
Red Rocks Park
Look for the distinct red sandstone formations of the foothills during the descent into the Denver area.
Sit on the right for the best sunlight on the peaks during mid-day and afternoon flights. This side provides the most consistent views of the high-altitude continental divide. Be aware that winter flights may offer the most dramatic snow-capped vistas but can be prone to afternoon turbulence over the ridges.
San Juan Mountains
Stunning views of jagged peaks like Mount Wilson and the Lizard Head Wilderness area.
Uncompahgre Plateau
A massive uplifted area featuring deep canyons and vast evergreen forests stretching north.
Black Canyon
The deep, dark granite walls of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison are often visible in the distance.
Elk Mountains
High-altitude views toward the famous Maroon Bells and the high peaks surrounding Aspen.
Denver Skyline
During the final approach into DEN, the left side often captures the downtown skyline against the mountain backdrop.
The left side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct glare from the sun. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff to capture the sharp contrast between the high desert floor and the rising alpine ridges. Watch for the 'shadow' of the mountains in the early hours.
Distance: 446 km (277 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 45 min
Departure: CEZ (37.3030014038, -108.627998352)
Arrival: DEN (39.861698150635, -104.672996521)
Route Type: Domestic
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