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SMF → SLC
Which side of the plane to sit from Sacramento International Airport (Sacramento) to Salt Lake City International Airport (Salt Lake City)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most iconic landmarks of the route, including a prime view of Lake Tahoe shortly after takeoff and the massive Bingham Canyon Mine on the descent into Salt Lake City.
Lake Tahoe
The crown jewel of the Sierras; look for the deep blue waters and Emerald Bay roughly 15-20 minutes after departing Sacramento.
Desolation Wilderness
Observe the glaciated granite peaks and subalpine forests of the high Sierra south of the flight path.
Bonneville Salt Flats
A vast, blindingly white crust of salt that marks the western edge of the Great Salt Lake Desert.
Bingham Canyon Mine
Also known as the Kennecott Copper Mine, this is one of the largest man-made excavations on Earth, visible as a massive tiered pit.
Salt Lake Valley
A panoramic view of the metropolitan area nestled against the towering Wasatch Front during the landing sequence.
The right side is unbeatable for seeing Lake Tahoe, but be prepared for the southern sun during midday flights. Keep your camera ready about 10 minutes before landing to capture the scale of the Bingham Canyon Mine. In winter, the snow-capped Wasatch peaks on this side are spectacular.
Donner Pass
View the rugged Sierra Nevada crest where the historic transcontinental railroad and Interstate 80 wind through the mountains.
Pyramid Lake
In the distance to the north, look for this strikingly blue endorheic lake set against the high desert landscape.
Great Basin Ranges
Observe the unique 'Basin and Range' topography of Nevada, featuring repetitive parallel mountain ranges and flat valleys.
Great Salt Lake
The left side provides the best view of the northern arm of the lake, often appearing with pink or reddish hues due to salt-loving microbes.
Antelope Island
The largest island in the Great Salt Lake, known for its bison herds and scenic shorelines during the final approach.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Great Salt Lake's color variations. During morning flights, the sun will be on the opposite side, providing clear, glare-free views of the Nevada desert and the salt pans. Pay attention as you enter Utah to see the Lucin Cutoff railroad causeway.
Distance: 854 km (531 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min
Departure: SMF (38.69540023803711, -121.59100341796876)
Arrival: SLC (40.78839874267578, -111.97799682617188)
Route Type: Domestic
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