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ABQ destination photo
PDX destination photo

ABQPDX

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior sequence of landmarks, including the red rocks of Utah, the Great Salt Lake, and an iconic close-up approach past Mount Hood and the Columbia River Gorge.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🏜️

Arches & Canyonlands

Dramatic views of the red rock formations around Moab and the deep carving of the Green and Colorado Rivers.

🧂

Great Salt Lake

The vast, shimmering expanse of the lake and the sharp peaks of the Wasatch Range bordering Salt Lake City.

🐍

Snake River Plain

The fertile crescent of Idaho featuring the winding Snake River and the distant Sawtooth Mountains.

🗻

Mount Hood

One of the best views in aviation; the flight usually passes very close to the northern face of this snow-capped stratovolcano.

🌊

Columbia River Gorge

The massive water gap through the Cascades, featuring lush green cliffs and waterfalls during the final descent.

This is the 'photographer's side.' Ensure you are on the right for the descent into PDX; the pilot often flies a path that puts Mount Hood right outside your window. Early morning flights provide stunning golden-hour light on the Utah canyons and the Cascade peaks.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🏜️

Chaco Canyon Area

The rugged, high-desert terrain of northwest New Mexico and the ancient cultural landscapes near the Four Corners.

💧

Lake Powell

Distances views of the winding sapphire waters of Glen Canyon and the northern stretches of the Colorado River.

🏔️

Oregon Cascades

Excellent views of Mount Jefferson and the Three Sisters peaks as you cross into the Pacific Northwest.

The left side is preferable for late afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. While you miss the close-up of Mount Hood, you get a broader view of the central Oregon volcanic range and the high desert transition.

Top Activities in Portland
Route Information

Distance: 1,787 km (1,110 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 23 min

Departure: ABQ (35.040199, -106.609001)

Arrival: PDX (45.58869934, -122.5979996)

Route Type: Domestic

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