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SLC → YVR
Which side of the plane to sit from Salt Lake City International Airport (Salt Lake City) to Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides an unparalleled view of the majestic Cascade Range volcanoes, including Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens, followed by a beautiful coastal approach into Vancouver.
Great Salt Lake
View the surreal turquoise and pink hues of the northern Great Salt Lake and its salt flats shortly after takeoff.
Mount Rainier
See the massive, glacier-clad peak of Washington's tallest volcano towering over the surrounding landscape.
Mount St. Helens
A clear view of the horseshoe-shaped crater left by the historic 1980 eruption.
Mount Baker
The final major peak of the Cascades before crossing into Canada, often heavily glaciated.
Gulf Islands
A cluster of emerald islands scattered across the Salish Sea during the final descent into YVR.
Sit on the left (usually seat A) for the best views of the iconic Pacific Northwest volcanoes. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, providing perfect lighting for photography of the mountain peaks. In winter, ensure your window is clear as the dramatic snow cover on the Cascades is a highlight of the trip.
Wasatch Range
Immediate views of the rugged peaks bordering Salt Lake City as the plane climbs northward.
Snake River Canyon
Observe the deep gorge carved through the basalt plains of southern Idaho.
Columbia River Basin
The massive river system winding through the high desert plateaus of eastern Washington.
Okanagan Valley
A glimpse of the lush valley known for its lakes and vineyards near the US-Canada border.
Vancouver Cityscape
Depending on the approach, a stunning view of downtown Vancouver and the North Shore Mountains.
The right side (seat F) is excellent for viewing the high desert terrain and the transition into the Canadian Rockies' foothills. Be prepared for direct sunlight on morning flights, which may require closing the shade initially. During the descent, watch for the sprawling Fraser River delta and the dense evergreen forests of British Columbia.
Distance: 1,282 km (797 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 43 min
Departure: SLC (40.78839874267578, -111.97799682617188)
Arrival: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Route Type: International
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