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RNO → SJC
Which side of the plane to sit from Reno Tahoe International Airport (Reno) to Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (San Jose)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior, expansive vista of Lake Tahoe's deep blue waters and the jagged granite peaks of the high Sierra Nevada almost immediately after departure.
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Lake Tahoe
An unparalleled view of the entire alpine lake, including Emerald Bay and the southern shoreline.
Desolation Wilderness
Stark, glacier-carved granite peaks and high-altitude lakes south of Tahoe.
Eldorado National Forest
Deep river canyons and dense evergreen forests stretching across the western slope.
Central Valley
The vast, geometric patchwork of California's agricultural heartland near Stockton.
Mount Hamilton
The summit of the Diablo Range featuring the white domes of the historic Lick Observatory.
Choose a window seat behind the wing to avoid engine obstruction. On morning flights, the sun is behind you, illuminating the Sierra Nevada and Lake Tahoe perfectly. Watch closely within the first 10 minutes of flight for the best lake views.
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Donner Pass
The historic mountain crossing and the shimmering waters of Donner Lake.
Folsom Lake
A major reservoir on the American River situated at the base of the foothills.
Sacramento Skyline
The capital city of California and its surrounding metropolitan area in the valley.
Diablo Range
Rugged, golden hills that separate the Central Valley from the San Francisco Bay Area.
Alviso Salt Ponds
Vibrant, multi-colored salt evaporation ponds visible during the final approach into SJC.
The right side is ideal for seeing the northern section of the Sierra range. During the descent into San Jose, look for the San Francisco skyline in the distance if it is a clear day. Evening flights offer beautiful sunset views over the coastal ranges.
Book Hotels in San JoseDistance: 303 km (188 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 30 min
Departure: RNO (39.49909973144531, -119.76799774169922)
Arrival: SJC (37.362598, -121.929001)
Route Type: Domestic
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