While the takeoff offers decent Sierra Nevada views, the landing approach provides more dramatic and distinctive scenery with the Mississippi River system and St. Louis confluence being highly visible and geographically striking features that dominate the final descent.
Flown SMF to STL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Sacramento to St. Louis is 1,675 miles (2,695 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
Great Basin terrain (Nevada), Utah salt flats and desert basins, Colorado River system, Rocky Mountain foothills (Colorado/Wyoming border region), High Plains of eastern Colorado and western Kansas, Missouri River valley approaching St. Louis
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from SMF
LEFTLeft side offers views of the Sierra Nevada foothills as the aircraft climbs eastward initially before turning east-northeast. The terrain rises progressively, giving good perspective on the mountain range's western slope.
Landing at STL
RIGHTRight side provides excellent views during the descent into St. Louis, particularly of the Mississippi River's distinctive meanders and the confluence with the Missouri River. The urban sprawl of the St. Louis metropolitan area becomes visible on approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Sacramento International (SMF) to Lambert St Louis International (STL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Sacramento to St. Louis. While the takeoff offers decent Sierra Nevada views, the landing approach provides more dramatic and distinctive scenery with the Mississippi River system and St. Louis confluence being highly visible and geographically striking features that dominate the final descent.
What can I see during takeoff from Sacramento International in Sacramento?
During takeoff from Sacramento International (SMF), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of the Sierra Nevada foothills as the aircraft climbs eastward initially before turning east-northeast. The terrain rises progressively, giving good perspective on the mountain range's western slope. Notable sights include: Sierra Nevada foothills, Sacramento Valley floor, American River corridor, Folsom Lake.
What can I see when landing at Lambert St Louis International in St. Louis?
When landing at Lambert St Louis International (STL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides excellent views during the descent into St. Louis, particularly of the Mississippi River's distinctive meanders and the confluence with the Missouri River. The urban sprawl of the St. Louis metropolitan area becomes visible on approach. Notable sights include: Mississippi River with characteristic meanders, Missouri River confluence, St. Louis urban area, Illinois bluffs east of the river.
How long is the flight from Sacramento to St. Louis?
The flight from Sacramento International (SMF) to Lambert St Louis International (STL) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,675 miles (2,695 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Sacramento to St. Louis flight path pass over?
Great Basin terrain (Nevada), Utah salt flats and desert basins, Colorado River system, Rocky Mountain foothills (Colorado/Wyoming border region), High Plains of eastern Colorado and western Kansas, Missouri River valley approaching St. Louis