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PSP destination photo

PHXPSP

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

This short desert hop offers stunning views of the arid Southwest. While both sides provide spectacular vistas of rugged mountains and vast desert basins, the right side captures the iconic landscapes of Joshua Tree and the massive San Bernardino peaks.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🏙️

Phoenix Skyline

Excellent views of the downtown corridor and Camelback Mountain during the initial climb.

🏞️

Colorado River

The distinct blue-green ribbon of water marking the border between Arizona and California.

🌳

Joshua Tree National Park

Vast stretches of high-desert wilderness and unique monzogranite rock formations.

🌬️

San Gorgonio Pass

Home to thousands of iconic wind turbines and the towering peak of San Gorgonio Mountain.

The right side offers a superior view of Joshua Tree National Park and the massive San Bernardino Mountains. It is also the best side for viewing the famous wind farms in the San Gorgonio Pass during the approach into PSP. Morning flights provide the best lighting for these northern features.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🏜️

South Mountain Park

One of the largest municipal parks in the US, visible immediately after takeoff from PHX.

🌵

Kofa National Wildlife Refuge

Dramatic, jagged volcanic peaks and desert wilderness in western Arizona.

🌊

Salton Sea

The shimmering blue expanse of California's largest lake, located south of the flight path.

🏔️

San Jacinto Peak

A massive 10,834-foot granite face that towers directly over Palm Springs during the final descent.

Sit on the left for the best views of the Salton Sea and the sheer verticality of Mount San Jacinto as you descend into the Coachella Valley. For late afternoon flights, this side will be facing away from the direct sun, making it better for photography without glare.

Top Activities in Palm Springs
Route Information

Distance: 418 km (260 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 42 min

Departure: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)

Arrival: PSP (33.829700469970696, -116.50700378417967)

Route Type: Domestic

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