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PDX destination photo
SFO destination photo

PDXSFO

Our Recommendation
9.6

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers an unparalleled 'parade of volcanoes,' featuring continuous views of the Cascade Range's most iconic peaks, including Mt. Hood and Mt. Shasta.

Left Side Highlights
9.6
🌋

Mt. Hood

Immediately after takeoff from PDX, this massive glacier-clad peak dominates the horizon to the east.

🏔️

The Three Sisters

A trio of high volcanic peaks in the Oregon Cascades providing a dramatic mid-flight silhouette.

💧

Crater Lake

The deep blue waters of the deepest lake in the USA are often visible within its collapsed caldera.

🏔️

Mt. Shasta

A towering, isolated stratovolcano in Northern California that remains visible for a significant portion of the flight.

🌋

Lassen Peak

The southernmost volcano in the Cascade Range, marking the transition into the California landscape.

Choose a seat in front of the wing for unobstructed views of the peaks. Morning flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the eastern faces of the volcanoes, providing high-contrast photography opportunities. Keep your camera ready immediately after takeoff for the best view of Mt. Hood.

Right Side Highlights
8.4
🌲

Oregon Coast Range

Dense, evergreen-covered mountains stretching toward the Pacific Ocean.

🌊

Pacific Coastline

Aerial views of rugged cliffs and the meeting of the continent and the sea.

🌳

Redwood National Park

The dark, dense canopies of the world's tallest trees visible along the Northern California coast.

🌉

Golden Gate Bridge

Often visible during the descent into SFO if the flight path approaches from the north or west.

The right side is premier for sunset flights, as the sun dips into the Pacific. During the approach to SFO, the right side often catches the Golden Gate Bridge and the Marin Headlands, though this depends on the specific landing pattern (typically Runways 28L/R). Watch for the 'marine layer' of fog rolling into the bay.

Top Activities in San Francisco
Route Information

Distance: 886 km (551 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 29 min

Departure: PDX (45.58869934, -122.5979996)

Arrival: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)

Route Type: Domestic

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