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RAP → LAS
Which side of the plane to sit from Rapid City Regional Airport (Rapid City) to McCarran International Airport (Las Vegas)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic geological transitions from the Black Hills through the rugged Wind River Range and the stunning red rock formations of Zion and Bryce Canyon, ending with a potential view of the Las Vegas Strip.
The Black Hills
Panoramic views of the granite peaks and pine-covered slopes surrounding Rapid City shortly after takeoff.
Wind River Range
Jagged, glaciated peaks of western Wyoming, including Gannett Peak, visible to the northwest.
Bryce & Zion National Parks
The iconic Grand Staircase of Southern Utah, featuring deep canyons and towering sandstone cliffs.
Valley of Fire
Brilliant red Aztec sandstone outcrops that appear to glow against the surrounding gray limestone.
The Las Vegas Strip
Depending on air traffic patterns, a spectacular view of the mega-resorts and the Sphere upon final approach.
Choose the right side for sunset flights to catch the Golden Hour over the Utah red rocks. Watch for the sharp transition from the High Plains to the Rocky Mountains and keep your camera ready for the Las Vegas Strip during landing.
Badlands National Park
Glimpses of the rugged erosion and multi-colored spires east of Rapid City during the initial climb.
Medicine Bow Mountains
Snow-capped peaks and alpine terrain as the flight crosses the Wyoming and Colorado border region.
Lake Powell
The deep blue waters of the Colorado River winding through the stark red Glen Canyon landscape.
Lake Mead
The massive reservoir formed by the Hoover Dam, showcasing a stark contrast between water and desert.
Hoover Dam
A clear view of this engineering marvel and the Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge just before touchdown.
Sit behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of Lake Mead and Hoover Dam. This side is better for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun while crossing the Rockies and Southern Utah.
Distance: 1,355 km (842 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 48 min
Departure: RAP (44.0452995300293, -103.05699920654295)
Arrival: LAS (36.08010101, -115.1520004)
Route Type: Domestic
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