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SOW destination photo
FMN destination photo

SOWFMN

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a superior vantage point for the most iconic geological landmarks of the Four Corners region, most notably the stunning Shiprock monolith and the vibrant colors of the Painted Desert.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌋

Shiprock

The legendary 1,583-foot volcanic plug that dominates the desert landscape near Farmington.

🎨

Painted Desert

Expansive views of the Chinle Formation with its characteristic stripes of red, orange, and lavender.

⛰️

Chuska Mountains

A high, forested plateau on the Arizona-New Mexico border offering rugged terrain views.

🏜️

Canyon de Chelly

Distant glimpses of the spectacular sandstone canyons and spire formations.

🌋

Hopi Buttes

A unique field of dark volcanic necks scattered across the high desert floor.

Sit on the left for the best view of Shiprock during the descent; it is usually visible about 15 miles west of the approach. Morning flights are preferred to avoid sun glare and capture the desert colors in soft light. Watch for the dramatic shift from the Mogollon Rim forests to the arid San Juan Basin.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🌲

White Mountains

High-altitude ponderosa pine forests and peaks visible immediately after departure from Show Low.

💧

Lyman Lake

A large reservoir near St. Johns that stands out as a blue oasis in the dry landscape.

🏔️

Mount Taylor

A prominent stratovolcano on the eastern horizon, considered sacred by many indigenous tribes.

🪨

Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness

Unique badlands and surreal hoodoo formations visible south of Farmington during the approach.

🌊

San Juan River

The lush river valley carving through the desert as the flight enters the Farmington area.

The right side is excellent for viewing the high-altitude volcanic peaks of the San Mateo Mountains. Late afternoon flights offer incredible 'golden hour' shadows over the Bisti badlands. Keep a camera ready immediately after takeoff to capture the dense forest canopy of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest.

Top Activities in Farmington
Route Information

Distance: 319 km (198 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 32 min

Departure: SOW (34.265499115, -110.005996704)

Arrival: FMN (36.7411994934, -108.230003357)

Route Type: Domestic

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