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YTH destination photo
YQD destination photo

YTHYQD

Which side of the plane to sit from Thompson Airport (Thompson) to The Pas Airport (The Pas)?

Our Recommendation
7.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers spectacular views of the rugged Canadian Shield, the winding Grass River system, and the stunningly clear waters of Clearwater Lake during the approach.

Right Side Highlights
7.9
🏞️

Paint Lake Provincial Park

A beautiful view of the lake's countless islands and jagged shoreline shortly after departure.

🛶

Grass River Waterway

The historic fur trade route winds through the landscape like a silver ribbon below the wing.

📍

Setting Lake

A long, narrow glacial lake known for its deep blue water and rocky outcroppings.

💎

Clearwater Lake

One of the clearest lakes in the world; its turquoise water and white sandy bottom are visible during the descent.

The right side is essential for seeing Clearwater Lake just before landing at YQD. For the best clarity and color saturation of the lakes, a mid-day flight with the sun overhead is ideal. In winter, look for the 'ice roads' crossing the frozen lake surfaces.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌲

Boreal Canopy

Dense stretches of the northern taiga forest, showcasing the vastness of the Canadian wilderness.

🌊

Sipiwesk Lake

Distant views of the massive, island-filled lake that forms part of the Nelson River system.

🛤️

Hudson Bay Railway

Look for the thin line of the historic railway cutting through the muskeg and forest.

🌾

Muskeg Wetlands

Intricate patterns of peatlands and small ponds typical of the Hudson Bay Lowlands ecology.

Sit on the left for softer lighting during late afternoon flights, which highlights the textures of the muskeg. Keep an eye out for the industrial infrastructure of the Thompson nickel mines immediately after takeoff.

Top Activities in The Pas
Route Information

Distance: 290 km (180 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 29 min

Departure: YTH (55.80110168457031, -97.86419677734376)

Arrival: YQD (53.97140121459961, -101.09100341796876)

Route Type: Domestic

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