Loading map...

ORD destination photo
PDX destination photo

ORDPDX

Our Recommendation
8.9

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides an unparalleled view of the Cascade Range volcanoes including Mount Adams and Mount St. Helens, plus the north rim of the Columbia River Gorge.

Right Side Highlights
8.9
🏖️

Lake Michigan

Deep blue waters and the northern coastline visible during the initial climb phase.

🏜️

South Dakota Badlands

The striking, eroded sedimentary layers of the high plains visible from cruising altitude.

⛰️

Bitterroot Range

The rugged peaks of the Northern Rockies stretching across the Montana-Idaho border.

🌊

Columbia River Gorge

The dramatic, winding canyon carved through the Cascade Mountains by the Columbia River.

🌋

Mount St. Helens

The famous horseshoe-shaped crater left by the 1980 eruption is clearly visible to the north.

The right side is the 'cool' side for westbound afternoon flights, avoiding direct sun glare. It offers the best perspective of the Columbia River Gorge's scale and the volcanic peaks of Washington state during the descent.

Left Side Highlights
8.4
🏙️

Chicago Skyline

Iconic views of the Willis Tower and lakefront architecture shortly after takeoff from O'Hare.

🌊

Mississippi River

A clear view of the wide waterway marking the boundary between the Midwest and the Plains.

🏜️

Nebraska Sandhills

The undulating, grass-stabilized dunes creating unique patterns across the heartland.

🏔️

Mount Hood

Oregon's highest peak appears massive and incredibly close during the southern approach path.

🌲

Willamette Valley

Lush green landscapes and vineyards visible as the plane enters the Portland metro area.

Choose the left side for a breathtaking close-up of Mount Hood on the final descent. For sunset flights, this side will catch the warm golden hour light hitting the mountains, though mid-day flights may face some sun glare.

Top Activities in Portland
Route Information

Distance: 2,792 km (1,735 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 43 min

Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Arrival: PDX (45.58869934, -122.5979996)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.