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INL → BRD
Which side of the plane to sit from Falls International Airport (International Falls) to Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport (Brainerd)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the sprawling Voyageurs National Park region upon takeoff and provides a better vantage point for the massive open-pit mines of the Mesabi Iron Range and the dense lake clusters of the Northwoods.
Voyageurs National Park
Stunning views of the island-dotted waters of Rainy Lake and Kabetogama Lake immediately after takeoff.
Kabetogama State Forest
A vast expanse of boreal forest and wetlands that defines the rugged landscape of Northern Minnesota.
Mesabi Iron Range
The dramatic, terraced red-earth pits of the iron mines near Hibbing and Grand Rapids are visible in the distance.
Leech Lake
One of the state's largest and most irregularly shaped lakes, featuring massive bays and forested points.
Grand Rapids Area
A bird's-eye view of the upper Mississippi River as it flows through this historic logging and mining hub.
Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you for better photography. Keep an eye out for the distinct red color of the Iron Range pits, which contrast sharply with the surrounding green forest. During autumn, this side offers spectacular views of the changing tamarack and maple leaves.
Rainy River Border
The winding river that serves as the international boundary between the United States and Ontario, Canada.
Big Fork State Forest
Remote wilderness areas characterized by winding rivers and dense stands of pine and spruce.
Lake Winnibigoshish
A massive, circular glacial lake known for its wide-open waters and significant role in the local ecosystem.
Mississippi River Headwaters
The meandering path of the infant Mississippi River as it snakes south toward the central part of the state.
Gull Lake Chain
As you descend into Brainerd, look for the highly developed and beautiful shorelines of the Brainerd Lakes vacation area.
The right side is ideal for evening flights to catch the sunset reflecting off the thousands of small 'pothole' lakes. This side provides a clearer view of the flatter, transitionary landscape where the forest begins to give way to the prairie regions further west.
Distance: 247 km (153 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 25 min
Departure: INL (48.566200256347656, -93.4030990600586)
Arrival: BRD (46.39830017, -94.13809967)
Route Type: Domestic
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