The northbound takeoff from Salt Lake City on the right side offers more dramatic scenery with the Wasatch Range and Great Salt Lake. While the landing view on the left is pleasant, the takeoff experience is more visually compelling for this short northern route.
Flown SLC to IDA? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Salt Lake City to Idaho Falls is 188 miles (303 km), a flight of about 1 hour 10 minutes.
During the flight, you'll pass over the Bear Lake area (visible as a blue water body if flying slightly east of direct route), the Cache Valley floor, and the transition from the Wasatch Range system into the lower terrain of southeastern Idaho. The Bear River valley may be visible depending on exact flight path. Most of the flight crosses relatively open terrain with scattered mountains and agricultural land.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase

Takeoff from SLC
RIGHTRight-side seats offer the best views during the northbound climb-out from Salt Lake City. You'll see the Wasatch Range rising steeply to the east and the Great Salt Lake expanding to the west as you gain altitude.
Landing at IDA
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during the southbound descent into Idaho Falls. You'll see the Snake River valley opening up and the Teton Range visible to the east as you approach the airport.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Salt Lake City International (SLC) to Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Salt Lake City to Idaho Falls. The northbound takeoff from Salt Lake City on the right side offers more dramatic scenery with the Wasatch Range and Great Salt Lake. While the landing view on the left is pleasant, the takeoff experience is more visually compelling for this short northern route.
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. Right-side seats offer the best views during the northbound climb-out from Salt Lake City. You'll see the Wasatch Range rising steeply to the east and the Great Salt Lake expanding to the west as you gain altitude. Notable sights include: Wasatch Range (eastern wall), Great Salt Lake (western expanse), Salt Lake City urban grid (directly below during initial climb), Antelope Island (in the lake, visible as you climb).
What can I see when landing at Idaho Falls Regional Airport in Idaho Falls?
When landing at Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during the southbound descent into Idaho Falls. You'll see the Snake River valley opening up and the Teton Range visible to the east as you approach the airport. Notable sights include: Snake River (winding through the valley), Teton Range (eastern horizon), Idaho Falls city (visible on final approach), Eastern Idaho plateau terrain (rolling agricultural land).
How long is the flight from Salt Lake City to Idaho Falls?
The flight from Salt Lake City International (SLC) to Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) takes about 1 hour 10 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 188 miles (303 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Salt Lake City to Idaho Falls flight path pass over?
During the flight, you'll pass over the Bear Lake area (visible as a blue water body if flying slightly east of direct route), the Cache Valley floor, and the transition from the Wasatch Range system into the lower terrain of southeastern Idaho. The Bear River valley may be visible depending on exact flight path. Most of the flight crosses relatively open terrain with scattered mountains and agricultural land.