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SJC destination photo
ATL destination photo

SJCATL

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers superior views of the dramatic Sierra Nevada range and the most rugged sections of the Colorado Rockies, while benefiting from the sun being positioned on the opposite side of the aircraft for most of the journey.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
⛰️

Sierra Nevada Range

Aerial views of Yosemite National Park and the jagged granite peaks of the high Sierras shortly after departure.

🏜️

Utah Red Rocks

Stunning vistas of Arches National Park and the deep incisions of the Green River near Moab.

🏔️

Colorado Rockies

Fly directly over the highest peaks in the continental U.S., including the snow-capped Mount Elbert and Mount Massive.

🗼

St. Louis Gateway Arch

Spot the iconic silver monument on the banks of the Mississippi River as the flight begins its gradual descent.

🏙️

Nashville Skyline

Clear views of the 'Music City' skyscraper cluster and the Cumberland River winding through Tennessee.

Sitting on the left side (North) is ideal for eastbound flights as the sun will be on the right side of the plane, reducing glare and cabin heat. Look out about 20-30 minutes after takeoff for the Sierras and approximately 2 hours in for the heart of the Rockies.

Right Side Highlights
8.1
🚜

Central Valley

The intricate geometric patterns of California's primary agricultural hub immediately after climbing out of San Jose.

💧

Lake Powell

The vivid contrast of deep blue water snaking through the bright red sandstone of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

🗻

San Juan Mountains

The rugged and remote volcanic peaks of southwestern Colorado, often covered in snow well into the summer.

🌲

Ozark Plateau

Endless rolling green hills and dense forests stretching across southern Missouri and northern Arkansas.

⛰️

Stone Mountain

A massive quartz monzonite dome located just east of Atlanta, often visible during the final landing approach.

While the views are spectacular, passengers on the right side will face direct sunlight for most of the day, which can make the cabin quite warm and photography difficult due to lens flare. This side is preferred for sunset flights to catch the colors over the desert.

Top Activities in Atlanta
Route Information

Distance: 3,398 km (2,111 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs

Departure: SJC (37.362598, -121.929001)

Arrival: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)

Route Type: Domestic

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