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PSP → SMF
Which side of the plane to sit from Palm Springs International Airport (Palm Springs) to Sacramento International Airport (Sacramento)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, including glimpses of iconic national parks and high-altitude peaks.
Mt. San Gorgonio
Southern California's highest peak, often snow-capped, towering over the San Bernardino National Forest.
Sequoia & Kings Canyon
Rugged, high-altitude wilderness featuring deep canyons and some of the world's most ancient forests.
Yosemite Perimeter
Distant views of the iconic granite monoliths and glacial valleys of one of America's most famous national parks.
High Sierra Peaks
A continuous chain of jagged granite peaks and alpine lakes stretching across the eastern horizon.
Sierra Foothills
The transition from rugged mountains to rolling golden hills and vineyards as you approach the Sacramento area.
The right side is the clear winner for mountain lovers. For the best lighting on the Sierra Nevada peaks, choose a morning flight when the sun illuminates the western slopes. Window seats forward or aft of the wing are essential to capture the scale of the mountains. During winter, the snow-covered peaks are particularly breathtaking.
San Gorgonio Pass
The dramatic wind-swept gap between the San Jacinto and San Bernardino mountains immediately after takeoff.
Central Valley Tapestry
A bird's-eye view of the immense agricultural grid and irrigation networks that define California's heartland.
San Joaquin Valley Cities
Clear views of Bakersfield, Fresno, and Modesto as the flight progresses north along the Highway 99 corridor.
California Delta
The complex network of levees and waterways where the Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers converge before landing.
Sit on the left for views of the coastal ranges in the distance and the intricate patterns of the Delta. If flying during sunset, this side provides a vibrant display over the Diablo Range, though glare can be intense.
Distance: 707 km (439 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 11 min
Departure: PSP (33.829700469970696, -116.50700378417967)
Arrival: SMF (38.69540023803711, -121.59100341796876)
Route Type: Domestic
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