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IAD destination photo
DEN destination photo

IADDEN

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is generally superior for this westbound journey to avoid direct southern sun glare and to capture views of the northern Front Range and Longs Peak upon arrival in Denver.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏛️

NoVA Corridor

Aerial views of the Dulles tech corridor and the rolling hills of northern Virginia horse country.

⛰️

Shenandoah Valley

Stunning views of the Shenandoah National Park and the winding Skyline Drive below.

🌊

Mississippi River

A massive crossing of the primary drainage for the North American continent.

🌆

Kansas City

The urban sprawl and the confluence of the Missouri and Kansas rivers are often visible to the north.

🏔️

Rocky Mountain National Park

Spectacular views of Longs Peak and the jagged snow-capped peaks of the northern Front Range.

The right side (north-facing) provides consistent, even lighting for photography since you are flying away from the sun. Sit here for the best chance to see the dramatic transition from the flat plains to the sudden rise of the Rockies during the 20-minute descent phase.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏞️

Blue Ridge Mountains

Sprawling views of the southern Appalachian ridges shortly after departure from Dulles.

🚢

Ohio River Meanders

The winding path of the Ohio River as you pass over the border of West Virginia and Ohio.

🏙️

St. Louis Arch

On southern flight paths, the iconic Gateway Arch can be spotted as you cross the Mississippi River.

🌾

Great Plains Grid

The mesmerizing geometric patterns of agricultural circles and squares across Kansas.

🏔️

Pikes Peak

The famous 14,115-foot summit is visible to the south during the final descent into Denver.

On this westbound route, sit on the left for views of the southern Rockies, but be prepared for significant sun glare throughout the afternoon. Consider a window seat behind the wing to see the flaps during the high-altitude descent into the 'Mile High City'.

Top Activities in Denver
Route Information

Distance: 2,332 km (1,449 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 7 min

Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)

Arrival: DEN (39.861698150635, -104.672996521)

Route Type: Domestic

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