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DSM → DEN
Which side of the plane to sit from Des Moines International Airport (Des Moines) to Denver International Airport (Denver)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side offers superior views of the meandering Platte River and a panoramic perspective of the northern Front Range mountains, including Longs Peak, during the descent into Denver.
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Iowa Heartland
The geometric beauty of Iowa's agricultural patchwork as the flight begins its westward climb.
Missouri River
A major geographic milestone marking the transition from the Midwest to the Great Plains.
The Platte River
Follow the historic path of the Oregon Trail as the plane parallels this wide, shallow waterway across Nebraska.
Front Range Panorama
Dramatic views of the snow-capped Rocky Mountains including Longs Peak as the aircraft banks for landing.
The right side is ideal for catching the sunset over the Rockies during evening flights. During the descent into Denver, planes often loop from the north, providing this side with a spectacular head-on view of the mountain range. Keep your camera ready as you cross the Colorado border for the first glimpse of the peaks.
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Omaha Skyline
Clear views of downtown Omaha and the Missouri River crossing immediately after departure from Des Moines.
Lincoln & Memorial Stadium
Spot the Nebraska State Capitol and the massive home of the Huskers as you fly past Lincoln.
Colorado Wind Farms
Dense clusters of white wind turbines dotting the eastern Colorado plains near the border.
Pikes Peak
On clear days, the southernmost 14er is visible in the distance during the final approach to DIA.
Sit on the left for the best view of the Nebraska state capital. This side remains mostly shaded on morning flights, which reduces window glare for photography. Look out for the massive grid-like patterns of the Midwest farmland that transition into the high desert plains.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 946 km (588 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min
Departure: DSM (41.53400039672852, -93.66310119628906)
Arrival: DEN (39.861698150635, -104.672996521)
Route Type: Domestic
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