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DTW → SLC
Which side of the plane to sit from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit) to Salt Lake City International Airport (Salt Lake City)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer expansive views of the American heartland, the right side is superior for the spectacular descent into Salt Lake City, providing an unparalleled view of the Great Salt Lake and the unique desert-to-mountain transition.
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Lake Michigan
Shortly after takeoff, you will likely cross the southern tip of Lake Michigan, offering views of the vast blue expanse and the Indiana dunes.
Wyoming High Desert
The landscape shifts dramatically from green plains to the arid, rugged terrain of the Red Desert and the Great Divide Basin.
Flaming Gorge Reservoir
Keep an eye out for the brilliant turquoise waters of the Green River winding through deep, red-rock canyons on the WY-UT border.
The Great Salt Lake
The star attraction; see the stark contrast between the white salt flats and the shallow, mineral-rich waters as the plane banks for arrival.
Antelope Island
A striking view of the largest island in the lake, known for its mountainous terrain and surrounding wetlands.
The right side is highly recommended for late afternoon flights, as the sun sets over the Great Salt Lake, creating incredible colors on the water and the salt flats. This side also avoids direct sun for most of the westward journey, making it easier to see out the window without glare. Look for the spiral jetty area if the flight path takes you far enough north.
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Chicago Skyline
Depending on the specific ATC routing, you may catch a distant view of the Willis Tower and the dense urban grid of the Windy City.
Nebraska Sandhills
Observe the intricate patterns of the Loess Hills and the geometric beauty of center-pivot irrigation circles across the Great Plains.
Uinta Mountains
As you enter Utah, look for the jagged peaks of this unique east-west oriented mountain range, often snow-capped well into summer.
Salt Lake City Skyline
During the final approach into SLC from the north, the left side offers a clear view of the Temple Square and the downtown business district.
The left side is the 'sunny' side for most of the flight heading west. If you are on an early morning flight, keep your window shade down to avoid the direct glare, but open it as you cross the Rockies for beautiful light on the Uinta range. It is generally better for seeing the urban sprawl of the Salt Lake Valley upon arrival.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 2,378 km (1,478 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 10 min
Departure: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Arrival: SLC (40.78839874267578, -111.97799682617188)
Route Type: Domestic
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