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DEN destination photo
PDX destination photo

DENPDX

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers an unparalleled close-up of Mount Hood and the southern Cascade volcanoes during the final approach into Portland.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
🏔️

Front Range Rockies

Immediately after takeoff, enjoy sweeping views of the snow-capped peaks in Northern Colorado and Rocky Mountain National Park.

🌑

Craters of the Moon

Look for the stark, dark volcanic landscapes and lava fields of southern Idaho mid-flight.

🏜️

Oregon High Desert

The landscape shifts into the vast, arid plateaus of Eastern Oregon, showing deep canyons and sagebrush plains.

🌋

Mount Hood

The star of the show; the plane often flies directly past this 11,249-foot stratovolcano just before landing.

🌲

Southern Cascades

Views extending south toward Mount Jefferson and the Three Sisters, forming a line of volcanic peaks.

Book a window seat on the left (Side A) for the most iconic views of Mount Hood. Morning flights are preferred to have the sun behind you, illuminating the mountains. In winter, the snow cover on the Rockies and Cascades makes the geography much more dramatic.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
💨

Wind River Range

Views of Wyoming's rugged wilderness and high-altitude glacial lakes to the north of the flight path.

⛰️

The Wallowas

Often called the 'Little Switzerland' of America, these peaks are visible as you enter Northeastern Oregon.

🌊

Columbia River Gorge

The dramatic water-cut canyon separating Oregon and Washington, featuring steep basalt cliffs.

🗻

Mount Adams

The massive, broad-shouldered volcano of Washington state is clearly visible across the Columbia River.

💥

Mount St. Helens

On clear days, the distinct crater left by the 1980 eruption is visible to the northwest during the descent.

The right side is excellent for viewing the Columbia River Gorge and the Washington volcanoes. Choose this side for late afternoon flights to avoid the direct western sun and enjoy the 'Golden Hour' light on the basalt cliffs of the Gorge.

Top Activities in Portland
Route Information

Distance: 1,592 km (989 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 7 min

Departure: DEN (39.861698150635, -104.672996521)

Arrival: PDX (45.58869934, -122.5979996)

Route Type: Domestic

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