The right side dominates both segments—the Wasatch Range on departure is visually superior to anything on the left, and the Ruby Mountains on approach are also best viewed from the right side of the aircraft.
Flown SLC to EKO? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Salt Lake City to Elko is 199 miles (321 km), a flight of about 55 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Great Basin between the two ranges. Notable features include the Pequop Mountains (small range visible to the north around midpoint), vast open sagebrush desert, and the Humboldt River drainage system becoming more prominent as the aircraft approaches Elko from the west.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from SLC
RIGHTClimbing eastbound from SLC, the right side offers immediate views of the Wasatch Range's dramatic eastern escarpment. The left side faces west toward the Oquirrh Mountains and the Great Salt Lake, which are less visually striking from this angle.
Landing at EKO
LEFTDescending westbound into Elko, the left side captures the Ruby Mountains' distinctive jagged profile and the Humboldt River valley. The right side faces the lower, less dramatic terrain of the Elko Basin.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Salt Lake City International (SLC) to Elko Regional Airport (EKO)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Salt Lake City to Elko. The right side dominates both segments—the Wasatch Range on departure is visually superior to anything on the left, and the Ruby Mountains on approach are also best viewed from the right side of the aircraft.
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. Climbing eastbound from SLC, the right side offers immediate views of the Wasatch Range's dramatic eastern escarpment. The left side faces west toward the Oquirrh Mountains and the Great Salt Lake, which are less visually striking from this angle. Notable sights include: Wasatch Range (Mount Olympus, Mount Timp visible on ridgeline), Great Salt Lake (western edge), Salt Lake Valley floor with grid of city streets below.
What can I see when landing at Elko Regional Airport in Elko?
When landing at Elko Regional Airport (EKO), sit on the Left side for the best views. Descending westbound into Elko, the left side captures the Ruby Mountains' distinctive jagged profile and the Humboldt River valley. The right side faces the lower, less dramatic terrain of the Elko Basin. Notable sights include: Ruby Mountains (sharp granite peaks), Humboldt River valley (visible as a linear green corridor), Elko city and airport (small grid pattern on basin floor), surrounding sagebrush basin.
How long is the flight from Salt Lake City to Elko?
The flight from Salt Lake City International (SLC) to Elko Regional Airport (EKO) takes about 55 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 199 miles (321 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Salt Lake City to Elko flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Great Basin between the two ranges. Notable features include the Pequop Mountains (small range visible to the north around midpoint), vast open sagebrush desert, and the Humboldt River drainage system becoming more prominent as the aircraft approaches Elko from the west.