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MSP destination photo
DLH destination photo

MSPDLH

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers the most dramatic views of Lake Superior, the Duluth harbor, and the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge during the final approach into DLH.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏛️

St. Paul Skyline

Offers views of the Minnesota State Capitol and the cathedral as the plane heads northeast from the airport.

🛶

St. Croix River Valley

A glimpse of the scenic river border between Minnesota and Wisconsin can often be seen shortly after reaching cruising altitude.

🌊

Lake Superior

The highlight of the trip is the view of the world's largest freshwater lake appearing as an endless blue horizon on approach.

🏗️

Aerial Lift Bridge

As the plane banks toward the runway, you can often see Duluth's most famous landmark at the entrance to Canal Park.

⚓

Duluth-Superior Harbor

View the massive iron ore docks and international shipping vessels docked in the working port.

🏘️

The Duluth Hillside

See the unique terraced layout of the city as it rises sharply from the lakefront toward the higher plateau.

For the best chance to see the 'Money Shot' of Lake Superior and the Aerial Lift Bridge, sit on the right. This side is especially beautiful in autumn when the North Shore forests turn vibrant red and orange. Keep your camera ready about 10 minutes before landing.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

Minneapolis Skyline

On a northbound departure from MSP, the left side typically offers a clear view of the IDS Center and the downtown Minneapolis core.

🌊

Mississippi River

Watch the river wind through the Twin Cities suburbs and the Chain of Lakes area immediately after takeoff.

🛶

St. Louis River Estuary

During descent, the left side views the winding St. Louis River as it widens before entering the Duluth-Superior harbor.

🌲

Boreal Forest Transition

Observe the landscape shift from agricultural fields to the dense pine forests of the northern Great Lakes region.

⛷️

Spirit Mountain

On the final approach, look for the slopes of Spirit Mountain recreation area overlooking the river valley.

The left side is preferable for evening flights to catch the sunset over the vast Minnesota wilderness. It is also the better side for viewing the Minneapolis downtown core shortly after takeoff from MSP.

Top Activities in Duluth
Route Information

Distance: 232 km (144 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 23 min

Departure: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)

Arrival: DLH (46.8420982361, -92.1936035156)

Route Type: Domestic

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