Loading map...
PSP → YVR
Which side of the plane to sit from Palm Springs International Airport (Palm Springs) to Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic 'Ring of Fire' volcanic peaks and the continuous spine of the Sierra Nevada and Cascade mountain ranges.
Search flights from PSP to YVR
Mojave Desert
Expansive views of Joshua Tree National Park and high-desert rock formations upon climb-out.
Sierra Nevada
Jagged, snow-capped peaks including the towering granite walls of the High Sierra region.
Lake Tahoe
The strikingly blue, high-altitude alpine lake straddling the California-Nevada border.
Mount St. Helens
The distinct horseshoe-shaped crater and desolate blast zone resulting from the 1980 eruption.
Mount Rainier
The massive, glacier-clad 14,411-foot stratovolcano that dominates the Washington skyline.
Mount Baker
The final major volcanic peak before the border, often appearing very close during the descent.
Fraser Valley
The lush agricultural lands and mountains surrounding the Fraser River as you approach YVR.
Sit behind the wing to ensure your view of the massive volcanoes isn't blocked by the engines. The 'volcano parade' typically begins about 75-90 minutes into the flight; keep your camera ready for the transition from the Sierras to the Cascades. Morning flights are spectacular on this side as the rising sun illuminates the eastern faces of the mountains.
Book Hotels in VancouverSan Gorgonio Mountain
The highest peak in Southern California visible immediately after departure from Palm Springs.
Napa and Sonoma Valleys
Distant views of California's premier wine country nestled between the coast ranges.
Olympic Peninsula
Rugged, densely forested mountains and the mist-covered coastlines of Washington State.
Salish Sea
The shimmering waters and intricate coastlines of the Puget Sound as you head north.
Gulf Islands
The beautiful archipelago of British Columbia during the final descent into Vancouver.
The left side is preferable for afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. During the descent into YVR, this side often provides a clearer view of Victoria and the San Juan Islands. To avoid glare during the day, this side is generally better for photography as you are facing away from the direct sun for much of the northbound journey.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for CanadaDistance: 1,795 km (1,115 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 24 min
Departure: PSP (33.829700469970696, -116.50700378417967)
Arrival: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.