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ALW destination photo
SEA destination photo

ALWSEA

Our Recommendation
9.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a front-row seat to the most iconic volcanic peaks of the Pacific Northwest, including an incredibly close pass by the northern face of Mount Rainier.

Left Side Highlights
9.5
🌾

Walla Walla Valley

Aerial views of the rolling hills and patchwork wheat fields of the Palouse as you depart ALW.

🏞️

Columbia River

Cross the massive blue ribbon of the Columbia River near the Tri-Cities area shortly after takeoff.

🌋

Mount Adams

The massive, snow-capped dome of Mount Adams is clearly visible to the south as you approach the Cascades.

🏔️

Mount Rainier

The absolute highlight; the plane usually flies very close to the northern or eastern flank of this 14,411-foot giant.

💨

Mount St. Helens

On clear days, the distinct crater and blast zone of St. Helens are visible behind Mount Adams.

⚓

Commencement Bay

Views of the Port of Tacoma and the southern reaches of the Puget Sound during the descent into SEA.

Sit on the left (Port side) for the best views of the big volcanoes. Morning flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the eastern faces of the mountains. In winter, the snow coverage is spectacular, but ensure a clear weather window to avoid cloud cover which often sits below the peaks. If landing from the north (Runway 16), the left side also sees the Olympic Mountains across the sound.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🐍

Snake River Confluence

Look north to see where the Snake River meets the Columbia River near Pasco.

🚜

Columbia Basin Irrigation

Intricate circular patterns of center-pivot irrigation systems across the high desert floor.

🌲

Alpine Lakes Wilderness

Dense evergreen forests and jagged granite peaks of the Central Cascades north of the flight path.

🏙️

Bellevue Skyline

The growing cluster of skyscrapers in Bellevue and the tech campuses of the Eastside.

🌊

Lake Washington

A full view of the massive lake separating Seattle from its eastern suburbs, including Mercer Island.

🗼

Seattle Skyline

If the plane approaches SEA from the north, you will get a panoramic view of the Space Needle and downtown.

The right side (Starboard) is better if you prefer urban landscapes and the deep greens of the Wenatchee National Forest. It is particularly good for evening flights during sunset, as the light hits the city skyline and Lake Washington beautifully. If the airport is using North Flow for landings, the right side provides the classic 'Space Needle' approach view.

Top Activities in Seattle
Route Information

Distance: 341 km (212 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 34 min

Departure: ALW (46.09489822, -118.288002)

Arrival: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)

Route Type: Domestic

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