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DEN destination photo
MSP destination photo

DENMSP

Our Recommendation
7.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers superior views of the transition from the high plains to the lake-studded landscape of Minnesota, with a high probability of seeing the downtown Minneapolis skyline and iconic chain of lakes during the descent.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌾

Pawnee National Grassland

Vast expanses of preserved shortgrass prairie visible shortly after takeoff from Denver.

🏔️

Rocky Mountain Silhouette

A final look back at the Front Range peaks as the aircraft gains altitude and heads northeast.

🌊

Missouri River

The winding border between Nebraska and Iowa, often crossed near Sioux City or Omaha.

🛶

Lake Minnetonka

One of Minnesota's largest and most famous lakes visible during the descent into the Twin Cities.

🏙️

Minneapolis Skyline

The modern architecture of downtown Minneapolis often appears during north-to-south landing patterns.

Morning flights provide the best lighting to see the lakes without sun glare. Look for the 'Chain of Lakes' in Minneapolis about 10-15 minutes before landing. In winter, the frozen lakes create stunning white geometric patterns against the urban landscape.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
🚜

Agricultural Mosaics

Mesmerizing geometric patterns of Nebraska and Iowa farmland showcasing center-pivot irrigation.

💧

Platte River

The wide, braided river system snaking through the Great Plains toward the Missouri.

🌅

Missouri River Valley

Lush valley views where the high plains meet the fertile river bluffs of the Midwest.

🏞️

Minnesota River

Scenic views of the wooded river valley just moments before touchdown at MSP.

🏰

St. Paul Skyline

Views of the Minnesota State Capitol and St. Paul's historic downtown architecture during certain approaches.

Afternoon flights offer warm, golden light over the Missouri River and the agricultural heartland. Watch for the Mall of America just south of the airport during final approach; it is a massive, unmistakable landmark on this side.

Top Activities in Minneapolis
Route Information

Distance: 1,092 km (679 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 27 min

Departure: DEN (39.861698150635, -104.672996521)

Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)

Route Type: Domestic

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