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SLC destination photo
CVG destination photo

SLCCVG

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers the most consistent views of the rugged northern Rocky Mountains and allows for better visibility of the Great Plains and major river crossings without the harsh glare of the southern sun on an eastbound flight.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Wasatch Mountains

Spectacular views of the jagged, snow-capped peaks immediately following takeoff from SLC.

🏞️

Flaming Gorge

The deep red canyons and bright blue waters of the Green River reservoir near the Utah-Wyoming border.

🏔️

Medicine Bow Mountains

High alpine scenery in southern Wyoming, often visible shortly after reaching cruising altitude.

🌊

Missouri River

A major crossing point near the Nebraska-Iowa border, showcasing the wide river valley.

🌉

Mississippi River

The massive North American waterway visible as you cross between Missouri and Illinois.

🏙️

Northern Cincinnati

Aerial views of the suburban expansion and the Great Miami River during the descent into CVG.

The left side (North) is ideal for eastbound travel to avoid direct sunlight. During the first hour, keep your camera ready for the Rockies. In the winter months, look for the 'quilt' pattern of snow-covered farmland over Nebraska and Iowa. The best lighting for photos is typically mid-morning when the sun is behind or above the aircraft.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

Salt Lake City Skyline

A clear view of the city's grid layout, the State Capitol, and Temple Square if departing to the south.

⛰️

Uinta Mountains

Views of the only major East-West mountain range in the lower 48 states.

🗼

St. Louis Gateway Arch

On more southerly flight paths, the iconic Arch is often visible along the Mississippi riverfront.

🚜

Midwestern Heartland

Intricate patterns of circular irrigation and vast agricultural fields across Kansas and Missouri.

🌊

Ohio River

The winding river that marks the border between Kentucky and Ohio, visible throughout the descent.

🏟️

Downtown Cincinnati

Excellent views of the Bengals and Reds stadiums and the city bridges if landing from the south.

Choose the right side if you are landing at sunset, as the sky over the Ohio River valley can be stunning. Be aware that during morning flights, the sun will be directly on this side, which may require closing the window shade. If the flight path passes over St. Louis, the right side is your only chance to spot the Gateway Arch.

Top Activities in Cincinnati
Route Information

Distance: 2,328 km (1,447 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 6 min

Departure: SLC (40.78839874267578, -111.97799682617188)

Arrival: CVG (39.0488014221, -84.6678009033)

Route Type: Domestic

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