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LAS → PDX
Which side of the plane to sit from McCarran International Airport (Las Vegas) to Portland International Airport (Portland)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a superior sequence of landmarks, starting with the turquoise waters of Lake Mead and culminating in a breathtaking close-up of Mt. Hood and the Cascade Range on approach to Portland.
Lake Mead
The largest reservoir in the US by capacity, offering stunning blue-green colors against the Mojave Desert.
Area 51
You can often spot the dry lake beds of Groom Lake and the remote test facilities in the distance to the north.
Steens Mountain
A massive fault-block mountain in southeastern Oregon that rises dramatically above the Alvord Desert.
Mt. Jefferson
The second highest peak in Oregon, this sharp volcanic spire is a highlight of the High Cascades lineup.
Mt. Hood
The crown jewel of the flight; the plane often passes close to this iconic, glacier-clad stratovolcano.
Mt. St. Helens
Visible to the north as the plane descends, showcasing its famous horseshoe-shaped crater from the 1980 eruption.
The right side is essential for mountain lovers. As you enter Oregon, the 'Parade of Volcanoes' begins; have your camera ready as you pass Mt. Jefferson and Mt. Hood. Choose a seat forward of the wing for an unobstructed view of the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead during the climb out of Las Vegas.
Red Rock Canyon
Visible immediately after takeoff, these vibrant Aztec Sandstone cliffs stand in sharp contrast to the desert floor.
Mount Charleston
The highest peak in the Spring Mountains, often capped with snow even when the Las Vegas valley is scorching.
Crater Lake
On clear days, look for the impossibly deep blue water of this volcanic caldera in southern Oregon.
Newberry Volcano
A massive shield volcano with a visible caldera and obsidian flows south of Bend, Oregon.
Portland Skyline
As the plane turns for its final approach, you get a sweeping view of downtown Portland and the Willamette River.
Sit on the left if you want to see the high desert transition into the lush greenery of the Willamette Valley. For the best views of Crater Lake, look out about 30-40 minutes before landing. Morning flights are ideal for this side to avoid the harsh afternoon sun reflecting off the wing.
Distance: 1,228 km (763 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 38 min
Departure: LAS (36.08010101, -115.1520004)
Arrival: PDX (45.58869934, -122.5979996)
Route Type: Domestic
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