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MSP → MSN
Which side of the plane to sit from Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis) to Dane County Regional Truax Field (Madison)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the dramatic Mississippi River bluffs, the rugged Driftless Area terrain, and the iconic Madison isthmus and State Capitol during the final approach.
Driftless Area Bluffs
Deeply carved river valleys and high ridges that escaped the flattening effects of the last ice age.
Wisconsin River
The winding path of the Wisconsin River featuring numerous sandbars and heavy forestation.
Devil's Lake
A deep blue lake surrounded by 500-foot quartzite bluffs near Baraboo, Wisconsin.
Wisconsin State Capitol
The white granite dome of the capitol building rising above the Madison isthmus.
Madison Isthmus
The narrow strip of land between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona that forms the city center.
Book an afternoon flight to see the sunset reflecting off the Mississippi bluffs. This side is essential for seeing the Madison skyline and the Capitol. Look for the 'S' curves of the Wisconsin River about 15 minutes before landing at MSN. During autumn, the fall foliage on the Driftless ridges is world-class.
St. Croix Confluence
The meeting point of the St. Croix and Mississippi Rivers just south of the Twin Cities.
Lake Pepin
The widest natural part of the Mississippi River, framed by high limestone bluffs.
Upper Mississippi Refuge
Vast stretches of protected wetlands, islands, and backwaters of the river valley.
Lake Mendota
The largest of Madison's lakes, visible on the northern side during the descent.
Early morning flights are ideal for the left side to avoid direct solar glare. Keep your eyes peeled immediately after takeoff for the confluence of the St. Croix river. In winter, this side offers great views of bald eagles congregating near open water on the Mississippi.
Distance: 366 km (227 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 37 min
Departure: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Arrival: MSN (43.13990020751953, -89.3375015258789)
Route Type: Domestic
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