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DEN → SMF
Which side of the plane to sit from Denver International Airport (Denver) to Sacramento International Airport (Sacramento)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a more dramatic perspective of the central Rocky Mountain peaks, the expansive red rock canyons of Southern Utah, and the most consistent views of Lake Tahoe during the arrival into Sacramento.
Front Range 14ers
Stunning views of Mount Evans and the high peaks of the Colorado Rockies shortly after departure from Denver.
Utah Canyon Country
Vast views of the rugged, red-hued terrain of the Colorado Plateau stretching toward the southern horizon.
Lake Tahoe
A spectacular bird's-eye view of the deep blue alpine lake as the plane descends over the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Sierra Nevada Crest
The rugged granite peaks and high-altitude wilderness of the California mountains just before landing.
Choose the left side for optimal views of Lake Tahoe as you begin your descent into Sacramento. For morning flights, the sun is to the south, making the landscape on this side well-illuminated. Look for the Continental Divide roughly 15-20 minutes after takeoff.
Rocky Mountain National Park
A clear view of Longs Peak and the glacier-carved valleys of the northern Front Range early in the flight.
Great Salt Lake
The shimmering, multi-colored waters and islands of Utah's massive saline lake visible near the flight's midpoint.
Bonneville Salt Flats
The blindingly white, perfectly flat salt crust stretching across the western Utah desert floor.
Sacramento Valley
The lush green and gold agricultural patchwork of the Central Valley during the final approach phase.
The right side is excellent for viewing the Great Salt Lake about an hour into the flight. This side is also preferred for afternoon travel to avoid direct sun glare from the south. Keep an eye out for the distinctive white expanse of the salt flats as you cross into Nevada.
Distance: 1,460 km (907 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 57 min
Departure: DEN (39.861698150635, -104.672996521)
Arrival: SMF (38.69540023803711, -121.59100341796876)
Route Type: Domestic
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