SAN → ABQ

Cleveland National Forest

Aerial views of the rugged Laguna Mountains and Cuyamaca Peak shortly after departure from San Diego.

Mojave and Sonoran Transition

The striking shift in desert textures and colors as you move toward the Colorado River.

Colorado River

The winding blue path of the river near Parker Dam and Lake Havasu, contrasting sharply with the arid surroundings.

Mogollon Rim

The massive topographical drop-off that defines the edge of the Colorado Plateau in central Arizona.

San Francisco Peaks

Distant but clear views of Arizona's highest mountains near Flagstaff, often snow-capped in winter.

Rio Grande Valley

The lush green corridor of the Rio Grande as the plane descends into the Albuquerque basin.

US-Mexico Border

The visible line of the border fence and the dense urban sprawl of Tijuana immediately south of San Diego.

Salton Sea

A massive inland saline lake shimmering in the desert heat, surrounded by the agricultural grids of the Imperial Valley.

Sonoran Desert National Monument

Vast stretches of pristine desert wilderness south of the Phoenix metro area.

Gila National Forest

Deep canyons and high-altitude wilderness areas in southwestern New Mexico.

Albuquerque Skyline

Direct views of the downtown skyscrapers and the University of New Mexico during final approach.

Sandia Mountains

The dramatic western escarpment of the Sandias, which turn bright pink during the famous Albuquerque sunset.