Loading map...
MSP → DLH
Which side of the plane to sit from Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis) to Duluth International Airport (Duluth)?
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.
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.
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.
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
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.