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SJC destination photo
SLC destination photo

SJCSLC

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is superior for this route as it typically offers a direct view of the stunning blue waters of Lake Tahoe and provides a panoramic approach over the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island before landing.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Silicon Valley

Aerial views of the South Bay and the dense tech campuses of San Jose and Santa Clara shortly after takeoff.

🏞️

Lake Tahoe

One of the flight's crown jewels, the deep blue alpine lake is often visible to the north of the flight path.

🏜️

Pyramid Lake

A striking turquoise endorheic lake located in the high desert of northwestern Nevada.

🌊

Great Salt Lake

Expansive views of the shimmering salt-heavy waters and the distinct causeways that divide different colors of the lake.

🦌

Antelope Island

The largest island in the Great Salt Lake, known for its rugged terrain and free-roaming bison populations.

Choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion. During afternoon flights, the sun will be on the right side of the plane, giving the left side perfectly lit, glare-free views of the Sierra Nevada and the Great Basin. Watch closely about 20-30 minutes after takeoff for the distinctive shape of Lake Tahoe.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🔭

Mount Hamilton

Home to the Lick Observatory, visible atop the rolling peaks of the Diablo Range east of San Jose.

🏔️

Sierra Nevada Peaks

Views of the high granite wilderness and snow-capped peaks of the central Sierra range.

🚜

Central Valley

The vast, geometric patchwork of California's agricultural heartland stretching toward the horizon.

⛏️

Bingham Canyon Mine

One of the largest man-made excavations in the world, this massive copper mine is a spectacular sight on the final approach.

🏔️

Wasatch Range

The dramatic mountain wall that towers over Salt Lake City, especially impressive during the descent.

The right side is excellent for catching the massive Bingham Canyon Mine and the jagged Wasatch Mountains during the landing sequence. However, be prepared for significant sun glare on morning flights. In winter, the snow-covered Ruby Mountains in eastern Nevada provide a stark, beautiful contrast to the surrounding desert floor.

Top Activities in Salt Lake City
Route Information

Distance: 939 km (583 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 34 min

Departure: SJC (37.362598, -121.929001)

Arrival: SLC (40.78839874267578, -111.97799682617188)

Route Type: Domestic

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