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SLC destination photo
DTW destination photo

SLCDTW

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a more direct view of the jagged Wasatch peaks upon departure and a spectacular crossing of Lake Michigan before descending into Detroit.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏔️

Wasatch Range

Dramatic aerial views of the snow-capped peaks immediately after takeoff from SLC.

🏜️

Wyoming High Desert

Vast, arid landscapes and rugged rock formations across southern Wyoming.

🌾

Nebraska Sandhills

Unique undulating grass-stabilized sand dunes spanning the northern horizon.

🌊

Mississippi River

Crossing the wide, winding artery of the American heartland near the Iowa-Illinois border.

⛴️

Lake Michigan

A scenic overwater transit, often providing views of the Michigan coastline and dunes.

🏡

Grand Rapids

Views of Western Michigan's urban centers and surrounding forest patches.

Sit on the left for the best indirect lighting when traveling eastward, avoiding the harsh southern sun. This side provides the best perspective of the Great Salt Lake if the plane departs to the north. Watch for the dramatic shift from the high desert to the lush, green Midwest plains.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏔️

Uinta Mountains

View the unique East-West oriented mountain range situated south of the flight path.

🐍

Platte River

Follow the historic path of the Oregon Trail as the river meanders through the Nebraska plains.

🏗️

Omaha Skyline

Clear views of the Missouri River crossing and the urban center of Omaha.

🌆

Chicago Distance

On clear days, the distant skyline of the Windy City can be seen to the south.

🛫

Detroit Metro

Detailed views of the sprawling industrial and residential landscapes of Southeast Michigan during descent.

The right side receives direct sunlight on this eastbound route, so be prepared for glare. It offers a better vantage point for the Platte River and the Southern Rockies in the distance. During the winter, look for the intricate patterns of frozen lakes across Iowa and Illinois.

Top Activities in Detroit
Route Information

Distance: 2,378 km (1,478 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 10 min

Departure: SLC (40.78839874267578, -111.97799682617188)

Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)

Route Type: Domestic

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