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PDX destination photo
TUS destination photo

PDXTUS

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers immediate, close-up views of the Cascade volcanoes and superior perspectives of the Arizona red rock country and Grand Canyon region during the descent.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏔️

Mount Hood

Visible almost immediately after takeoff, providing a massive, snow-capped presence just east of Portland.

🌋

Cascade Volcanic Chain

A sequential view of Mt. Jefferson, the Three Sisters, and Mt. Bachelor as you track south through Oregon.

🏜️

High Desert Plateaus

Dramatic transition from the green forests of the Pacific Northwest to the arid, rugged terrain of the Great Basin.

🏞️

Grand Canyon (North Rim)

On typical flight paths, the northern edges of the Grand Canyon are visible as you cross into Arizona.

🔴

Sedona Red Rocks

Striking crimson sandstone formations near the Verde Valley become visible during the initial descent phase.

Sit on the left (Port) side for the best sunrise views on morning flights and to see Mt. Hood directly after departure. During the final 30 minutes of the flight, keep your camera ready for the colorful transitions of the Mogollon Rim and the bright red earth of central Arizona.

Right Side Highlights
8.1
🏔️

Mount Shasta

One of the most impressive solitary peaks in the lower 48, visible as you cross into Northern California.

💧

Klamath Lake

A massive expanse of water surrounded by marshes and mountains at the Oregon-California border.

🌲

Sierra Nevada Range

Distant but clear views of the high granite peaks and Lake Tahoe to the west.

🌵

Mojave Desert

Unique desert geography featuring dry lake beds, alluvial fans, and the Joshua Tree region.

☀️

Salton Sea

The shimmering blue surface of California's largest lake is often visible on the western horizon before turning toward Tucson.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the direct sun glare from the east. You will have an excellent perspective of Mt. Shasta, which is the highlight of the mid-flight segment. Watch for the stark contrast of the dry lake beds in Nevada and California as you head south.

Top Activities in Tucson
Route Information

Distance: 1,802 km (1,120 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 24 min

Departure: PDX (45.58869934, -122.5979996)

Arrival: TUS (32.116100311279304, -110.94100189208984)

Route Type: Domestic

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