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YVR → YZZ
Which side of the plane to sit from Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver) to Trail Airport (Trail)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer stunning mountain vistas, the right side provides the most iconic views of Mount Baker and the dramatic descent into the Columbia River valley.
Mount Baker
The massive, snow-covered volcano in Washington State dominates the southern horizon for the first half of the flight.
Fraser Valley
A patchwork of fertile agricultural land and the winding Fraser River stretching toward the US border.
Osoyoos Lake
Views of Canada's only true desert environment and the distinctive spotted lakes of the South Okanagan.
Rossland Range
The high ridges and famous ski terrain of the West Kootenay mountains during the final descent.
Trail & Columbia River
A low-altitude approach over the Columbia River and the massive Teck Smelter complex upon landing.
The right side is essential for viewing Mount Baker, which is visible almost immediately after takeoff. This side also offers a superior view of the descent into the tight Columbia River valley. Choose the afternoon for warm light hitting the peaks of the Rossland Range, but be prepared for some turbulence as the plane enters the narrower valleys near Trail.
Vancouver Cityscape
Aerial views of the North Shore mountains and the sprawling Greater Vancouver area during initial climb.
Golden Ears Peaks
The twin peaks of Mount Blanshard in Golden Ears Provincial Park stand out as the first major alpine features.
Harrison Lake
A long, glacier-fed lake stretching deep into the rugged wilderness of the Coast Mountains.
Monashee Range
Endless rows of jagged, snow-capped peaks as the flight crosses the interior of British Columbia.
Lower Arrow Lake
Part of the Columbia River system, this long reservoir cuts through the deep mountain valleys.
Sit on the left for better views of the rugged North Shore mountains early on. For morning flights, this side avoids the direct glare of the sun, making it easier to spot glacial lakes in the Monashee Range. Keep your eyes peeled for the peaks of the Valhalla Provincial Park as you approach the Kootenays.
Distance: 406 km (252 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 41 min
Departure: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Arrival: YZZ (49.0555992126, -117.60900116)
Route Type: Domestic
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