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YKA destination photo
YYC destination photo

YKAYYC

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of the high-alpine glaciers and the most iconic turquoise lakes of the Canadian Rockies, including the stunning Wapta Icefield and Lake Louise.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
💧

Shuswap Lake

The intricate H-shaped waterway with its deep blue arms stretching into the forested hills just after takeoff.

🏔️

Glacier National Park

Dramatic views of the Selkirk Mountains and the steep, rugged terrain surrounding Rogers Pass.

❄️

Wapta Icefield

A massive expanse of ancient ice and glaciers visible along the Continental Divide.

💎

Lake Louise

The world-famous turquoise lake and the Victoria Glacier hanging above it in the heart of Banff National Park.

⛰️

Mount Temple

One of the highest peaks in the Bow Range, standing as a massive pyramid of rock and ice.

Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind the aircraft, reducing glare on the window. Watch closely about 20 minutes after departure for the distinct turquoise color of the alpine lakes. In winter, this side offers the best views of snow-blanketed icefields.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🌲

Mount Begbie

The iconic triple-peak silhouette towering over the city of Revelstoke and the Columbia River.

🏞️

Banff Townsite

A clear view of the town nestled in the valley, flanked by the massive sloping face of Mount Rundle.

⛰️

Three Sisters

The famous trio of jagged peaks overlooking Canmore during the initial descent phase.

🌊

Ghost Lake

A large reservoir where the mountains abruptly meet the rolling foothills and prairies.

🏙️

Calgary Skyline

Aerial views of the downtown skyscrapers and the Bow River as the plane turns for its final approach.

The right side is exceptional during late afternoon or 'golden hour' flights, as the setting sun illuminates the rock faces of Mount Rundle and the Three Sisters. Keep your camera ready as you pass Canmore, as the descent profile usually brings the plane quite close to the mountain ridges.

Top Activities in Calgary
Route Information

Distance: 453 km (281 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 45 min

Departure: YKA (50.7022018433, -120.444000244)

Arrival: YYC (51.113899231000005, -114.019996643)

Route Type: Domestic

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