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BOI → OAK
Which side of the plane to sit from Boise Air Terminal/Gowen Field (Boise) to Metropolitan Oakland International Airport (Oakland)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior panorama of the Northern Sierra Nevada, distant views of volcanic peaks like Mount Lassen, and the iconic approach over the San Francisco Bay including views of the city skyline and bridges.
Mount Lassen
The southernmost active volcano in the Cascade Range, visible as a massive snow-covered peak to the north.
Pyramid Lake
A stunning endorheic salt lake in Nevada known for its striking turquoise color and tufa rock formations.
Sacramento Valley
The vast, geometric patchwork of the California Central Valley's agricultural heartland.
San Francisco Skyline
Breathtaking views of the SalesForce Tower, Transamerica Pyramid, and the dense urban landscape.
Golden Gate Bridge
On clear days, the iconic orange bridge is visible to the west as the plane maneuvers into the Oakland approach.
The right side is essential for the classic 'Bay Area' arrival. Aim for an afternoon or sunset flight to see the sun glinting off the Pacific Ocean and the San Francisco Bay. Keep your camera ready as you pass the Sacramento Delta for the transition into the urban Bay Area.
Owyhee Canyonlands
Deep, rugged river canyons and volcanic plateaus where Idaho, Oregon, and Nevada meet.
High Sierra Crest
The southern-reaching peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains, often snow-capped well into summer.
Lake Tahoe
The deep blue waters of the largest alpine lake in North America, visible to the south of the flight path.
Mount Diablo
A prominent 3,849-foot peak that serves as a landmark for the East Bay region during descent.
Sit on the left for the best views of Lake Tahoe as you cross from Nevada into California. During morning flights, the sun will be behind you, providing excellent lighting for photos of the Sierra Nevada range and the Owyhee wilderness.
Distance: 823 km (511 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 22 min
Departure: BOI (43.5644, -116.223)
Arrival: OAK (37.721298, -122.221001)
Route Type: Domestic
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