While takeoff favors the right for Sierra Nevada views, the landing approach on the left provides superior scenery of the Wasatch Range and Great Salt Lake during descent—the most visually dramatic portion of the flight. Left wins overall for the stronger final impression.
Flown RNO to SLC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Reno to Salt Lake City is 421 miles (677 km), a flight of about 1 hour 10 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Great Basin between the two airports. Notable features include the Toiyabe Range and Monitor Range to the east of Reno, followed by the vast open desert of central Nevada. As you approach Salt Lake City, the Pequop Mountains and Ruby Mountains appear to the north, with the Pilot Range visible to the northeast. The terrain transitions from high desert (around 5,000-6,000 feet elevation) to the Salt Lake Valley floor at roughly 4,200 feet. No major bodies of water are crossed in the midpoint, but the basin-and-range topography creates a series of parallel mountain ridges visible from altitude.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from RNO
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Sierra Nevada range immediately after departure, with the Carson Range and Lake Tahoe visible to the north. The climb-out heads northeast, so right windows frame the dramatic eastern escarpment of the Sierra as you gain altitude.
Landing at SLC
LEFTLeft-side seats offer the best views during descent into Salt Lake City. The approach from the west brings the Wasatch Range into view on the left, with the Great Salt Lake visible to the north. You'll see the Salt Lake Valley and downtown skyline as you descend toward the runway.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Reno Tahoe International (RNO) to Salt Lake City International (SLC)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Reno to Salt Lake City. While takeoff favors the right for Sierra Nevada views, the landing approach on the left provides superior scenery of the Wasatch Range and Great Salt Lake during descent—the most visually dramatic portion of the flight. Left wins overall for the stronger final impression.
What can I see during takeoff from Reno Tahoe International in Reno?
During takeoff from Reno Tahoe International (RNO), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Sierra Nevada range immediately after departure, with the Carson Range and Lake Tahoe visible to the north. The climb-out heads northeast, so right windows frame the dramatic eastern escarpment of the Sierra as you gain altitude. Notable sights include: Carson Range, Lake Tahoe (northern portion), Sierra Nevada peaks, Washoe Valley.
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 offer the best views during descent into Salt Lake City. The approach from the west brings the Wasatch Range into view on the left, with the Great Salt Lake visible to the north. You'll see the Salt Lake Valley and downtown skyline as you descend toward the runway. Notable sights include: Wasatch Range, Great Salt Lake, Salt Lake Valley, Oquirrh Mountains.
How long is the flight from Reno to Salt Lake City?
The flight from Reno Tahoe International (RNO) to Salt Lake City International (SLC) takes about 1 hour 10 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 421 miles (677 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Reno to Salt Lake City flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Great Basin between the two airports. Notable features include the Toiyabe Range and Monitor Range to the east of Reno, followed by the vast open desert of central Nevada. As you approach Salt Lake City, the Pequop Mountains and Ruby Mountains appear to the north, with the Pilot Range visible to the northeast. The terrain transitions from high desert (around 5,000-6,000 feet elevation) to the Salt Lake Valley floor at roughly 4,200 feet. No major bodies of water are crossed in the midpoint, but the basin-and-range topography creates a series of parallel mountain ridges visible from altitude.