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LAS → DSM
Which side of the plane to sit from McCarran International Airport (Las Vegas) to Des Moines International Airport (Des Moines)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior lighting for photography as it faces north, away from the direct sun. It provides stunning views of the red rock formations in Nevada and Utah, followed by the highest peaks of the Colorado Rockies and the descent into the Missouri River valley.
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Valley of Fire State Park
Vivid red Aztec sandstone outcrops located just northeast of Las Vegas shortly after takeoff.
Southern Utah Canyons
Distant but clear views of the high plateaus and unique geological formations near Zion and Bryce Canyon.
Central Colorado Rockies
Direct views of major ski areas like Vail and the rugged peaks of the White River National Forest.
Denver Front Range
The northern edge of the Denver metropolitan area where the mountains meet the Great Plains.
Missouri River
The wide, winding border crossing between Nebraska and Iowa as the flight approaches Des Moines.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh southern sun and glare. This side provides the best perspective of the sharp transition from the Rockies to the plains. During winter, look for the stark contrast of snow-capped peaks against the dark forests of Colorado.
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Las Vegas Strip
A panoramic view of the world-famous hotel skyline during the initial climb out of McCarran.
Hoover Dam
The massive concrete arch-gravity dam on the Colorado River, visible against the deep blue of Lake Mead.
Grand Canyon North Rim
The northernmost edges of the Grand Canyon system visible as the flight path heads east-northeast.
Pikes Peak
The iconic 14,115-foot summit standing prominently south of the flight path in the Colorado Front Range.
Midwestern Patchwork
Intricate geometric patterns of center-pivot irrigation and vast cornfields across Kansas and Nebraska.
DSM Approach
Views of the Raccoon River and downtown Des Moines skyline if landing from the east.
Choose the right side if you are departing at night for a spectacular view of the Las Vegas lights. On clear days, the right side provides a better angle to see the Hoover Dam. Be aware that this side will be quite sunny on eastbound flights, so keep your window shade partially down if flying mid-day.
Book Hotels in Des MoinesDistance: 1,952 km (1,213 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 36 min
Departure: LAS (36.08010101, -115.1520004)
Arrival: DSM (41.53400039672852, -93.66310119628906)
Route Type: Domestic
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