The right side delivers the most dramatic and consistent terrain: the Wasatch Range at takeoff, glimpses of the Rockies and Canadian ranges during cruise, and a striking combination of the Chugach Mountains and possibly Denali on the descent into Anchorage.
Flown SLC to ANC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Salt Lake City to Anchorage is 2,121 miles (3,413 km), a flight of about 3 hours 50 minutes.
Route crosses the northern Rockies over Idaho and Montana, the Canadian Rockies and interior plateau of British Columbia, and the rugged wilderness of the Yukon before descending toward the Alaska Range.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from SLC
RIGHTDeparting SLC, the Wasatch Range rises abruptly just east of the airport, and whichever runway direction is used, the initial climb keeps these steep, often snow-capped peaks in view on the right. The left side mostly shows the flat Great Salt Lake basin and desert valley, which is scenic but less dramatic.
Landing at ANC
RIGHTOn approach into Anchorage, arrivals crossing the Alaska interior pass near the Alaska Range, with Denali often visible to the north on clear days, before the descent brings the Chugach Mountains into view directly east of the airport. The left side mainly overlooks Cook Inlet's open water and mudflats, which is scenic but flatter and less varied.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Salt Lake City International (SLC) to Ted Stevens Anchorage International (ANC)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Salt Lake City to Anchorage. The right side delivers the most dramatic and consistent terrain: the Wasatch Range at takeoff, glimpses of the Rockies and Canadian ranges during cruise, and a striking combination of the Chugach Mountains and possibly Denali on the descent into Anchorage.
What can I see during takeoff from Salt Lake City International in Salt Lake City?
During takeoff from Salt Lake City International (SLC), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing SLC, the Wasatch Range rises abruptly just east of the airport, and whichever runway direction is used, the initial climb keeps these steep, often snow-capped peaks in view on the right. The left side mostly shows the flat Great Salt Lake basin and desert valley, which is scenic but less dramatic. Notable sights include: Wasatch Range, Mount Olympus, Salt Lake Valley, Great Salt Lake in the distance.
What can I see when landing at Ted Stevens Anchorage International in Anchorage?
When landing at Ted Stevens Anchorage International (ANC), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into Anchorage, arrivals crossing the Alaska interior pass near the Alaska Range, with Denali often visible to the north on clear days, before the descent brings the Chugach Mountains into view directly east of the airport. The left side mainly overlooks Cook Inlet's open water and mudflats, which is scenic but flatter and less varied. Notable sights include: Denali (weather permitting), Alaska Range, Chugach Mountains, Knik Arm of Cook Inlet.
How long is the flight from Salt Lake City to Anchorage?
The flight from Salt Lake City International (SLC) to Ted Stevens Anchorage International (ANC) takes about 3 hours 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 2,121 miles (3,413 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Salt Lake City to Anchorage flight path pass over?
Route crosses the northern Rockies over Idaho and Montana, the Canadian Rockies and interior plateau of British Columbia, and the rugged wilderness of the Yukon before descending toward the Alaska Range.