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SLC → PDX
Which side of the plane to sit from Salt Lake City International Airport (Salt Lake City) to Portland International Airport (Portland)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular gallery of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic volcanoes including Mt. Rainier, Mt. Adams, and Mt. St. Helens, along with a front-row seat to the dramatic Columbia River Gorge.
Search flights from SLC to PDX
Wasatch Range
Stunning views of the rugged peaks bordering Salt Lake City as the plane gains altitude and turns northwest.
Snake River Plain
The wide, arc-shaped geological feature of southern Idaho, marked by volcanic basalt flows and irrigated farmland.
Cascade Volcano Trio
Unparalleled views of Mt. Adams, Mt. Rainier, and the cratered remains of Mt. St. Helens lined up to the north.
Columbia River Gorge
The massive river canyon cutting through the Cascades, featuring steep basalt cliffs and numerous waterfalls.
Portland Skyline
A clear view of the city center and the many bridges crossing the Willamette River just before touchdown.
The right side is the clear winner for volcano spotting. Choose a seat behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of Mt. St. Helens. On early morning flights, the sun will be behind you, providing perfect lighting for photography of the snowy peaks and the Columbia River Gorge.
Book Hotels in PortlandGreat Salt Lake
Aerial views of the salt flats, Antelope Island, and the distinct color variations of the lake immediately after departure.
Owyhee Canyonlands
Deeply eroded volcanic plateaus and remote desert canyons in the corner where Idaho, Oregon, and Nevada meet.
Mount Hood
A majestic view of Oregon's highest peak, often appearing very close to the aircraft during the descent into PDX.
Willamette Valley
Lush green agricultural land and vineyards that signify the transition into the fertile Pacific Northwest climate.
Sit on the left for the best view of the Great Salt Lake during takeoff. For afternoon flights, the sun will be on this side, which can cause glare and heat. However, it provides the most intimate view of Mt. Hood's south face during the final approach stages.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,012 km (629 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 21 min
Departure: SLC (40.78839874267578, -111.97799682617188)
Arrival: PDX (45.58869934, -122.5979996)
Route Type: Domestic
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