While takeoff favors the right for Spokane Valley context, the landing view of the Wasatch Range and Great Salt Lake from the left is far more dramatic and geographically significant. The left side dominates the most visually rewarding portion of the flight.
Flown GEG to SLC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Spokane to Salt Lake City is 546 miles (879 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Blue Mountains (southeast of Spokane), then transitions over the high desert plateau of eastern Oregon and western Idaho. The Wallowa Mountains appear to the southeast around midpoint. As you approach Utah, the terrain gradually rises toward the Wasatch Range. The Great Salt Lake becomes visible roughly 30 minutes before landing, appearing as a pale expanse on the western horizon.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from GEG
RIGHTSpokane typically departs eastbound (Runway 03) or westbound (Runway 21). For southbound routing to Salt Lake City, a right-seat passenger captures the Spokane Valley floor and the transition toward the Blue Mountains to the southeast. Left seats see the city and northern terrain less relevant to your route.
Landing at SLC
LEFTSalt Lake City typically lands westbound (Runway 16L/16R) or eastbound (Runway 34L/34R). For a southbound arrival, left-seat passengers get the best view of the Wasatch Range's dramatic eastern escarpment and the Great Salt Lake as you descend into the valley. Right seats face the Oquirrh Mountains and less dramatic terrain.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Spokane International (GEG) to Salt Lake City International (SLC)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Spokane to Salt Lake City. While takeoff favors the right for Spokane Valley context, the landing view of the Wasatch Range and Great Salt Lake from the left is far more dramatic and geographically significant. The left side dominates the most visually rewarding portion of the flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Spokane International in Spokane?
During takeoff from Spokane International (GEG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Spokane typically departs eastbound (Runway 03) or westbound (Runway 21). For southbound routing to Salt Lake City, a right-seat passenger captures the Spokane Valley floor and the transition toward the Blue Mountains to the southeast. Left seats see the city and northern terrain less relevant to your route. Notable sights include: Spokane city grid, Spokane River valley floor, Blue Mountains (southeast horizon), Coeur d'Alene Lake region (north, receding).
What can I see when landing at Salt Lake City International in Salt Lake City?
When landing at Salt Lake City International (SLC), sit on the Left side for the best views. Salt Lake City typically lands westbound (Runway 16L/16R) or eastbound (Runway 34L/34R). For a southbound arrival, left-seat passengers get the best view of the Wasatch Range's dramatic eastern escarpment and the Great Salt Lake as you descend into the valley. Right seats face the Oquirrh Mountains and less dramatic terrain. Notable sights include: Wasatch Range (eastern face), Great Salt Lake (north and west), Salt Lake Valley floor, Oquirrh Mountains (west).
How long is the flight from Spokane to Salt Lake City?
The flight from Spokane International (GEG) to Salt Lake City International (SLC) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 546 miles (879 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Spokane to Salt Lake City flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Blue Mountains (southeast of Spokane), then transitions over the high desert plateau of eastern Oregon and western Idaho. The Wallowa Mountains appear to the southeast around midpoint. As you approach Utah, the terrain gradually rises toward the Wasatch Range. The Great Salt Lake becomes visible roughly 30 minutes before landing, appearing as a pale expanse on the western horizon.