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SAN → DEN
Which side of the plane to sit from San Diego International Airport (San Diego) to Denver International Airport (Denver)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more direct view of the Grand Canyon and the most dramatic sections of the Rocky Mountains during the descent into Denver.
Mission Bay and Coastline
After taking off westward, the plane loops back east, offering stunning views of the San Diego shoreline.
Grand Canyon National Park
Depending on the specific airway, the northern rim of the Grand Canyon is often visible in the distance.
Monument Valley
The unique red sandstone buttes of the Four Corners region can be seen clearly from this side.
San Juan Mountains
As you enter Colorado, the rugged, snow-capped peaks of the San Juans provide spectacular alpine scenery.
Denver Skyline
On many approaches into DEN, the left side provides a clear view of the downtown skyscrapers against the mountain backdrop.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see the Grand Canyon and the heart of the Rockies. Choose a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the red rocks and mountains with clear, sharp light. During winter, the snow-covered peaks of the San Juans are a must-see.
San Diego Skyline
Excellent views of Downtown San Diego and the Coronado Bridge immediately after the initial departure turn.
The Salton Sea
A massive, shimmering inland saline lake located in the heart of the California desert.
Meteor Crater
Near Winslow, Arizona, you can often spot this perfectly preserved impact site in the desert landscape.
Pikes Peak
As the flight approaches the Denver area from the south, this iconic 14,115-foot peak is often visible.
High Plains
The transition from the mountains to the vast, geometric patterns of the Eastern Colorado plains.
The right side is superior for the initial departure views of San Diego Bay and the city skyline. However, be aware that on afternoon flights, the southern sun can be very bright and may cause significant glare on this side of the aircraft. Keep an eye out for Pikes Peak about 20 minutes before landing.
Distance: 1,371 km (852 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 50 min
Departure: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Arrival: DEN (39.861698150635, -104.672996521)
Route Type: Domestic
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