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LAX destination photo
SLC destination photo

LAXSLC

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides the most iconic landmarks of the American Southwest, including the Hoover Dam, the striking red canyons of Southern Utah, and a prime view of the Great Salt Lake colors during descent.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

San Gabriel Mountains

A bird's-eye view of the rugged peaks and deep canyons marking the edge of the Los Angeles basin.

🌊

Lake Mead & Hoover Dam

The massive blue reservoir and its famous dam are typically visible on the left side shortly after entering Nevada.

🏜️

Zion National Park

Look for the distinct deep red sandstone formations and towering cliffs of Southern Utah from high altitude.

🧂

Great Salt Lake

Witness the dramatic color shifts of the lake, ranging from turquoise to deep pink, as you approach the valley.

🏙️

Antelope Island

The largest island in the Great Salt Lake, offering views of roaming bison and white salt shorelines during descent.

Opt for the left side on morning flights to keep the sun behind you for better photography. This side is critical for spotting the Hoover Dam about 45-50 minutes into the flight. During the descent into SLC, the left side offers the best perspective of the Great Salt Lake's unique ecosystem.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🌆

Inland Empire

The sprawling urban landscape of Southern California gives way to the high desert shortly after takeoff.

🌵

Mojave Desert

Vast stretches of arid beauty, including the Mojave National Preserve and its volcanic cinder cones.

🌄

Grand Canyon North Rim

On clear days with a slightly southern flight path, the distant northern reaches of the Grand Canyon are visible.

🏔️

Wasatch Range

A spectacular wall of mountains exceeding 11,000 feet that provides a dramatic backdrop for the landing.

🏢

Salt Lake City Skyline

Excellent views of the downtown skyscrapers and the historic Temple Square just before the wheels touch down.

The right side is the best choice for afternoon flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. It offers a more consistent view of the high mountain peaks of the Wasatch Front. During the final approach, the right side provides the best view of the downtown Salt Lake City area and the Utah State Capitol.

Top Activities in Salt Lake City
Route Information

Distance: 949 km (590 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min

Departure: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)

Arrival: SLC (40.78839874267578, -111.97799682617188)

Route Type: Domestic

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