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MSP destination photo
APN destination photo

MSPAPN

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of the Door County archipelago and the northern reaches of Lake Michigan, providing a scenic transition from the forests of Wisconsin to the coastal beauty of Alpena.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

St. Paul Skyline

Upon departure, enjoy views of the Mississippi River and the downtown skyline of Minnesota's capital city.

🌊

St. Croix River

Observe the winding waterway that forms the natural border between Minnesota and Wisconsin.

🌲

Nicolet National Forest

Fly over vast stretches of dense pine and hardwood forests across central and northern Wisconsin.

🍒

Door County Islands

Clear views of Washington Island and the northern tip of the Door Peninsula as you transition over water.

⛵

Lake Michigan Crossing

A brief but beautiful span of deep blue water before reaching the Michigan coastline.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun glare. This side is also excellent for spotting the remote lighthouses scattered throughout the Green Bay and Door County region during the descent.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

Minneapolis Skyline

Catch a glimpse of the skyscrapers and U.S. Bank Stadium shortly after takeoff from MSP.

🚜

Wisconsin Farmlands

A patchwork of agricultural fields and glacial kettle lakes across the dairy state.

🛶

Lake Winnebago

Depending on the specific flight path, you may see Wisconsin's largest inland lake to the south.

🏜️

Sleeping Bear Dunes

Look for the massive sand dunes along the western Michigan coastline as you cross Lake Michigan.

🌅

Thunder Bay Arrival

Enjoy the approach into Alpena over the limestone-rich waters of Thunder Bay on Lake Huron.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be behind you, providing optimal lighting for photos of the Michigan coastline. Watch for the dramatic color change in the water near Alpena's shallow bays.

Top Activities in Alpena
Route Information

Distance: 760 km (472 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 16 min

Departure: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)

Arrival: APN (45.07809829999999, -83.56030273)

Route Type: Domestic

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