While takeoff offers decent views of the Bannock Range on the right, the landing approach provides superior scenery with the dramatic Wasatch Range and Great Salt Lake visible from the left side. The landing sequence dominates the visual experience on this short flight.
Flown PIH to SLC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Pocatello to Salt Lake City is 150 miles (241 km), a flight of about 55 minutes.
The flight path crosses the high desert plateau between Pocatello and Salt Lake City. Notable features along the route include the Bear River Mountains to the west-southwest, the Cache Valley floor, and the transition from sagebrush steppe to the more developed Wasatch Front region. At cruising altitude (around 18,000-22,000 feet), passengers may glimpse the Bear Lake area and the northern reaches of the Wasatch Range as the aircraft approaches the Salt Lake Valley.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from PIH
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Bannock Range and Portneuf Valley as the aircraft climbs southwestward. The terrain immediately surrounding Pocatello is more visually interesting on the right wing during the initial climb-out phase.
Landing at SLC
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of the Wasatch Range and the eastern shore of the Great Salt Lake during descent into Salt Lake City. The dramatic mountain backdrop and water body create the most compelling scenery on approach from the north.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Pocatello Regional Airport (PIH) to Salt Lake City International (SLC)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Pocatello to Salt Lake City. While takeoff offers decent views of the Bannock Range on the right, the landing approach provides superior scenery with the dramatic Wasatch Range and Great Salt Lake visible from the left side. The landing sequence dominates the visual experience on this short flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Pocatello Regional Airport in Pocatello?
During takeoff from Pocatello Regional Airport (PIH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Bannock Range and Portneuf Valley as the aircraft climbs southwestward. The terrain immediately surrounding Pocatello is more visually interesting on the right wing during the initial climb-out phase. Notable sights include: Bannock Range, Portneuf River valley, Pocatello city grid, Chubbuck to the north.
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. Left-side seats provide excellent views of the Wasatch Range and the eastern shore of the Great Salt Lake during descent into Salt Lake City. The dramatic mountain backdrop and water body create the most compelling scenery on approach from the north. Notable sights include: Wasatch Range, Great Salt Lake eastern shore, Salt Lake Valley floor, Antelope Island.
How long is the flight from Pocatello to Salt Lake City?
The flight from Pocatello Regional Airport (PIH) to Salt Lake City International (SLC) takes about 55 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 150 miles (241 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Pocatello to Salt Lake City flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the high desert plateau between Pocatello and Salt Lake City. Notable features along the route include the Bear River Mountains to the west-southwest, the Cache Valley floor, and the transition from sagebrush steppe to the more developed Wasatch Front region. At cruising altitude (around 18,000-22,000 feet), passengers may glimpse the Bear Lake area and the northern reaches of the Wasatch Range as the aircraft approaches the Salt Lake Valley.