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LWS destination photo
SEA destination photo

LWSSEA

Our Recommendation
9.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers an unparalleled 'volcano parade' as you cross the Cascades, featuring a close-up pass of Mount Rainier and distant views of Mount Adams and Mount St. Helens.

Left Side Highlights
9.5
🐍

Snake River Canyon

Immediately after takeoff, witness the dramatic basalt cliffs and the winding confluence of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers.

🌾

The Palouse

Aerial views of the iconic rolling wheat fields that create a mesmerizing patchwork of greens and golds depending on the season.

🌋

Mount Adams

Visible to the southwest as you approach the mountains, this massive stratovolcano stands prominently on the horizon.

🏔️

Mount Rainier

The star of the flight; you will pass very close to the northern face of this 14,411-foot peak during the descent into Seattle.

🌊

Puget Sound

Views of the shimmering inlets, islands, and ferries as the plane maneuvers for its final approach into SEATAC.

Sit on the left for the most dramatic views of Mount Rainier. Afternoon flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the western and southern faces of the volcanoes. If landing to the north, you'll get a sweeping view of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge and the South Sound islands.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
💧

Columbia River Basin

See the massive Columbia River carving through the arid landscape of Central Washington near the Vantage area.

⛰️

The Enchantments

Spot the jagged granite spires of the Stuart Range and the high-alpine lakes within the Wenatchee National Forest.

🎿

Snoqualmie Pass

Look down at the primary mountain crossing for I-90 and the surrounding ski areas nestled in the dense evergreen canopy.

🏙️

Bellevue & Lake Washington

During the northern approach, see the growing skyline of Bellevue and the expansive blue waters of Lake Washington.

🗼

Seattle Skyline

Depending on the wind and landing pattern, you may catch a glimpse of the Space Needle and downtown Seattle to the west.

The right side is excellent for seeing the rugged North Cascades and the tech hubs of the Eastside. This side often avoids direct glare during morning flights. It is the better side if you want to see the intricate river systems and irrigation circles of the Columbia Basin.

Top Activities in Seattle
Route Information

Distance: 419 km (260 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 42 min

Departure: LWS (46.3745002746582, -117.01499938964844)

Arrival: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)

Route Type: Domestic

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