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ORD destination photo
CMX destination photo

ORDCMX

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the Chicago skyline upon departure and the intricate waterways of the Keweenaw Peninsula during the approach to Hancock.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏢

Chicago Skyline

Unrivaled views of the Willis Tower, Hancock Center, and the downtown lakefront immediately after takeoff.

🏖️

Sleeping Bear Dunes

On clear days, the massive sand dunes of the Michigan mainland are visible across the northern reaches of the lake.

🏝️

Beaver Island

The largest island in Lake Michigan, visible as the flight traverses the northern waters towards the UP.

🌉

Portage Lake Lift Bridge

The iconic double-deck bridge connecting Houghton and Hancock, visible just before landing.

🏗️

Mining Ruins

Historic copper mining structures and 'stamp sands' along the shores of the Keweenaw Waterway.

The right side is essential for the iconic Chicago skyline view on departure (sit behind the wing for the best photos). On the final approach into CMX, keep your eyes peeled for the red-tinted sands near Torch Lake, a remnant of the region's copper mining heritage. Morning flights provide the best lighting for the Keweenaw landscape.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

North Shore Suburbs

Clear views of Evanston, Northwestern University, and the affluent northern suburbs along the Lake Michigan coastline.

🌊

Door Peninsula

The famous 'thumb' of Wisconsin, showing the rugged coastline and the transition between Lake Michigan and Green Bay.

🌲

Hiawatha National Forest

Vast expanses of dense pine and hardwood forests stretching across the central Upper Peninsula.

🚤

Green Bay Waters

The deep blue waters of the bay, often dotted with fishing boats and small islands near the Escanaba area.

Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun over the lake. This side is particularly scenic during the autumn when the forest canopy turns vibrant shades of orange and red. Look for the limestone cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment as you pass over Door County.

Top Activities in Hancock
Route Information

Distance: 579 km (360 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 58 min

Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Arrival: CMX (47.16839981079102, -88.48909759521484)

Route Type: Domestic

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