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SLC → SMF
Which side of the plane to sit from Salt Lake City International Airport (Salt Lake City) to Sacramento International Airport (Sacramento)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the jewel of the Sierras, Lake Tahoe, along with the rugged high-altitude granite peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains during the descent.
Search flights from SLC to SMF
Great Salt Lake
Aerial view of Antelope Island and the southern crystalline waters immediately after departure from SLC.
Ruby Mountains
Spectacular glaciated peaks near Elko, Nevada, featuring high alpine bowls and rugged ridges.
Lake Tahoe
The primary highlight; incredible views of the deep blue alpine lake as the plane crosses the Sierra crest.
Eldorado National Forest
Dense evergreen canopies and granite outcrops descending toward the California foothills.
Sacramento Skyline
Views of the Golden 1 Center and the state capitol building during the final approach from the east.
Book a window seat on the left for the best chance to see Lake Tahoe. Since this is the south-facing side, use a polarizer or sunglasses during midday flights to reduce glare from the high-altitude sun. The Lake Tahoe view occurs approximately 15-20 minutes before touchdown.
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Basin and Range
Classic geological views of Nevada's rhythmic mountain ranges and desert valleys.
Pyramid Lake
A striking endorheic lake in the Nevada desert known for its unique tufa rock formations.
Lassen Peak
On clear days, the southernmost volcano in the Cascade Range is visible in the far northern distance.
Donner Pass
The historic and rugged mountain pass used by the transcontinental railroad and Interstate 80.
Sacramento River Delta
The winding river and vast agricultural patchwork of the Central Valley during the final descent.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight. It offers a broader perspective of the Great Basin's unique geography. Keep an eye out for the snow-capped peak of Mount Lassen to the north if the atmosphere is clear.
Book Hotels in SacramentoDistance: 854 km (531 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min
Departure: SLC (40.78839874267578, -111.97799682617188)
Arrival: SMF (38.69540023803711, -121.59100341796876)
Route Type: Domestic
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