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PDX → MSO
Which side of the plane to sit from Portland International Airport (Portland) to Missoula International Airport (Missoula)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is the premier choice for this route, offering an immediate and dramatic close-up view of Mount Hood followed by the rugged beauty of the Wallowa Mountains and the Bitterroot Valley.
Mount Hood
Oregon's highest peak appears incredibly close to the wing shortly after departure, offering stunning glacial detail.
Columbia River Gorge
Look down into the deep basalt canyons and forested cliffs that define the Oregon-Washington border.
Wallowa Mountains
Often called the 'Little Switzerland of America,' these high-alpine peaks are visible to the southeast mid-flight.
Bitterroot National Forest
A vast expanse of pristine wilderness and deep valleys as you cross the Idaho-Montana border.
Missoula Valley
A beautiful panoramic view of the 'Garden City' nestled at the confluence of five mountain ranges.
The right side is essential for the best Mount Hood photos; sit behind the wing for the most scale. Afternoon flights offer the best 'golden hour' lighting on the Bitterroot Range during the approach into MSO. Winter flights provide spectacular views of the snow-covered peaks.
Mount Adams
A massive stratovolcano that dominates the northern horizon shortly after takeoff.
Mount St. Helens
The distinct horseshoe-shaped crater is visible to the northwest during the initial climb out of PDX.
Tri-Cities Confluence
Watch where the Snake and Yakima rivers merge into the mighty Columbia River near Pasco.
The Palouse
View the unique, rolling loess hills of eastern Washington, which change color significantly with the seasons.
Mission Mountains
During the descent into Missoula, these jagged, snow-capped peaks are visible to the north.
Choose the left side for a survey of Washington's volcanic peaks. It is particularly good for morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun glare. Keep an eye out for the Hanford Site as you cross into the Columbia Basin.
Distance: 670 km (416 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 7 min
Departure: PDX (45.58869934, -122.5979996)
Arrival: MSO (46.91630173, -114.0910034)
Route Type: Domestic
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