Loading map...
SFO → YYJ
Which side of the plane to sit from San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco) to Victoria International Airport (Victoria)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a spectacular parade of the Cascade Range's most iconic volcanic peaks, including Mount Shasta, Mount Rainier, and Mount St. Helens, alongside views of the Seattle skyline.
San Francisco Skyline
A comprehensive view of the Financial District, Salesforce Tower, and the Bay Bridge during initial climb.
Mount Shasta
The massive, 14,179-foot stratovolcano that dominates the horizon in Northern California.
Crater Lake
The deep blue waters of the caldera lake in Oregon, often visible depending on the specific airway used.
The Cascades
A sequential view of Mount Hood, the crater of Mount St. Helens, and the massive glaciers of Mount Rainier.
Seattle & Puget Sound
The urban sprawl of Seattle, the Space Needle, and the intricate waterways of the sound.
San Juan Islands
A stunning mosaic of forested islands and turquoise water during the final approach to YYJ.
The right side is the 'mountain side' and is highly recommended for morning flights to avoid the direct western sun. Mount Shasta and Mount Rainier are the major landmarks to watch for; they appear about 45 minutes and 90 minutes into the flight respectively. Ensure you have a window seat clear of the engine for unobstructed photos of the Cascade volcanoes.
Golden Gate Bridge
Aerial view of the bridge and the Marin Headlands immediately following a northbound departure.
The Lost Coast
Rugged and inaccessible stretches of the Northern California coastline where the mountains meet the sea.
Redwood National Park
Expansive views of the dense, ancient evergreen canopies of Northern California.
Olympic National Park
The snow-capped peaks of the Olympic Mountains and the lush Hoh Rainforest to the west.
Strait of Juan de Fuca
The final crossing of the international waterway between Washington State and Vancouver Island.
Choose the left side for dramatic coastal sunsets on evening flights. This side is also superior for spotting the rugged western coastline of the Olympic Peninsula during the descent phase. Avoid the wing area for the best view of the San Francisco Bay entrance shortly after takeoff.
Distance: 1,229 km (764 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 38 min
Departure: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Arrival: YYJ (48.646900177, -123.426002502)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.