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SEA → YKM
Which side of the plane to sit from Seattle Tacoma International Airport (Seattle) to Yakima Air Terminal McAllister Field (Yakima)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular, close-proximity view of Mount Rainier's massive glaciated peak and the rugged peaks of the Southern Cascades.
Mount Rainier
The absolute highlight, featuring an incredible close-up view of the Carbon and Emmons glaciers.
Snoqualmie Pass
Watch the I-90 corridor wind through the mountain gaps surrounded by jagged alpine terrain.
Mount Adams
On clear days, see the second-highest peak in Washington rising in the distance to the south.
Yakima Valley
Observe the dramatic shift from dark green forests to the geometric patterns of vineyards and orchards.
This is the premier side for this route. Mount Rainier will appear very large shortly after the aircraft turns southeast. For the best photography, afternoon flights offer stunning lighting on the mountain's eastern face. Ensure your window is clear, as the proximity to the peak is one of the best in commercial aviation.
Lake Washington
View the expansive blue waters of Lake Washington and the Mercer Island floating bridge shortly after takeoff.
Mount Si
Spot the iconic sheer cliffs of Mount Si, a popular hiking destination near North Bend.
Alpine Lakes Wilderness
Look for the dense evergreen forests and craggy granite peaks of the Central Cascades.
Cle Elum Lake
A deep blue reservoir nestled in the mountains just before descending into the Yakima Valley.
Sit here for views of the Seattle suburbs and the dense forest canopies of the Snoqualmie region. Morning flights provide the best lighting for the north-facing slopes without sun glare.
Distance: 166 km (103 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 17 min
Departure: SEA (47.449001, -122.308998)
Arrival: YKM (46.56819916, -120.5439987)
Route Type: Domestic
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