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SMF destination photo
IAD destination photo

SMFIAD

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side of the aircraft offers a front-row seat to Lake Tahoe shortly after takeoff, followed by the most dramatic peaks of the Colorado Rockies and the lush Shenandoah Valley during the descent into the D.C. area.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
💎

Lake Tahoe

The deep sapphire blue of the lake is perfectly framed shortly after the climb out of Sacramento.

🏔️

Colorado Front Range

Direct views of the highest peaks in the Rockies, including Longs Peak and the Continental Divide.

🏜️

Moab and Arches

Distinguishable red rock formations and canyons of the Utah desert landscape.

⛰️

Appalachian Ridges

The distinctive 'fold and thrust' geological patterns of the West Virginia mountains.

🏞️

Shenandoah National Park

Lush green ridges and the winding Skyline Drive as you approach the Virginia coast.

The right side is the 'scenic side' for the departure. Have your camera ready within the first 15-20 minutes for Lake Tahoe. For morning flights, the sun will be on this side, so polarized sunglasses are recommended. On the approach to IAD, you'll get the best views of the Virginia countryside and the Potomac River basin.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
⛰️

Northern Sierra Nevada

Aerial views of the rugged granite peaks and dense pine forests of the northern range.

🧂

Great Salt Lake

The shimmering expanse of the lake and its surrounding salt flats are often visible to the north.

🏔️

Northern Rocky Mountains

Dramatic views of the snowy ridges in Wyoming and Northern Colorado.

🌾

Midwestern Patchwork

The geometric beauty of circular irrigation patterns and farmland across Nebraska and Iowa.

🌉

Mississippi River

Crossing the massive artery of the United States, usually near the Quad Cities or St. Louis.

Sit on the left if you prefer views of the Great Salt Lake and the vast, shimmering northern plains. This side also avoids direct afternoon sun on eastbound flights, making it easier to keep your window shade open without glare.

Top Activities in Washington
Route Information

Distance: 3,785 km (2,352 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 27 min

Departure: SMF (38.69540023803711, -121.59100341796876)

Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)

Route Type: Domestic

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