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YLW destination photo
YXC destination photo

YLWYXC

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of the high-alpine Monashee and Purcell ranges, providing a more dramatic perspective of the glaciated peaks and the northern reaches of Kootenay Lake during the short hop across the interior.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🏔️

Monashee Mountains

Jagged, snow-capped ridges that rise sharply immediately east of the Okanagan Valley.

💧

Upper Arrow Lake

A vast, narrow glacial reservoir tucked between the Monashee and Selkirk ranges.

🧗

Purcell Wilderness

Dense, untouched sub-alpine forests and rugged peaks within the Purcell Wilderness Conservancy.

🛶

Kootenay Lake North

Deep blue waters stretching north toward the spectacular Lardeau Valley.

⛰️

Mount Fisher

The highest peak in the southern Rockies visible on the approach into the Rocky Mountain Trench.

Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh southern sun glare. This side offers the clearest views of the high alpine terrain. Look out for the transition from the dry Okanagan climate to the lush, interior rainforest of the Selkirks.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🍷

Myra Canyon

The historic Kettle Valley Railway trestles are visible just south of Kelowna shortly after takeoff.

⛷️

Big White Ski Resort

Spot the distinct ski runs and village of one of BC's premier mountain resorts.

🏘️

Nelson & Kootenay Arm

The picturesque 'Queen City' is often visible nestled along the West Arm of Kootenay Lake.

🌊

Lower Arrow Lake

Winding sections of the Columbia River system cutting through the southern interior.

🌲

Moyie Lake

A beautiful turquoise lake surrounded by dense evergreen forests as you descend toward Cranbrook.

The right side is excellent for afternoon flights as the sun illuminates the western slopes of the mountains. Keep your camera ready immediately after takeoff from YLW to catch the Myra Canyon trestles. In winter, Big White's snow-ghost trees are sometimes visible from altitude.

Top Activities in Cranbrook
Route Information

Distance: 261 km (162 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 26 min

Departure: YLW (49.9561004639, -119.377998352)

Arrival: YXC (49.610801696777, -115.78199768066)

Route Type: Domestic

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