The Beauty of Flying from Los Angeles to Seattle
A flight from Los Angeles (LAX) to Seattle (SEA) is more than just a journey—it’s a spectacular aerial tour of the American West. As you ascend from LA, the rugged mountains of Southern California give way to the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada, the volcanic summits of the Cascades, and finally, the lush greenery of the Pacific Northwest.
If you’ve ever wondered what you’ll see along the way, this article will guide you through the most breathtaking landmarks visible from the air on your Seattle flight path from LA mountains.
Departure: Flying Over the Los Angeles Mountains
As your plane takes off from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), you’ll immediately notice:
- Santa Monica Mountains – These stretch along the coastline, offering views of Malibu beaches and Pacific Palisades.
San Gabriel Mountains – Rising to the north of LA, these peaks include Mount Baldy (10,064 ft), a famous hiking destination.
Hollywood Sign & Griffith Observatory – Depending on your flight path, you may catch a glimpse of these iconic landmarks.
Fun Fact:
If your flight takes off westward over the Pacific, you might see the Channel Islands, a national park off the California coast, before looping north toward Seattle.
En Route: Over the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Ranges
The Sierra Nevada Mountains (California)
As your flight gains altitude, it passes over California’s Sierra Nevada, a 700-mile-long mountain range home to some of the most famous natural wonders in the U.S.:
- Mount Whitney (14,505 ft) – The highest peak in the contiguous United States.
Yosemite National Park – If you’re lucky, you might spot El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Valley from above.
Lake Tahoe – A stunning alpine lake on the California-Nevada border, famous for its deep blue waters.
Northern California & Oregon: The Cascade Range Begins
As your flight continues north into Oregon, the landscape changes dramatically as the Cascade Range comes into view.
- Mount Shasta (14,179 ft) – This towering volcanic peak in Northern California stands alone, creating a dramatic sight from the air.
Crater Lake (Oregon) – A deep blue volcanic lake formed inside the remains of Mount Mazama, one of the most stunning natural features in the region.
Three Sisters (Oregon) – A trio of volcanic peaks in central Oregon, known for their striking formations.
The best views of these landmarks are usually on the right side of the plane when flying north.
Arrival: The Approach to Seattle Over the Pacific Northwest
As your flight nears Washington state, the landscape transforms into a lush, green paradise with dense forests, rivers, and lakes. The final approach into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) offers some of the most stunning aerial views of the trip.
The Cascades and Mount Rainier (Washington)
- Mount Rainier (14,411 ft) – The crown jewel of Washington, this massive glacier-covered volcano dominates the skyline on clear days.
Mount St. Helens (8,363 ft) – Famous for its 1980 eruption, this volcano now features a visible crater from the air.
Olympic Mountains – Located to the west, these rugged peaks are part of Olympic National Park, home to the only temperate rainforest in the U.S.
Seattle Skyline and Puget Sound
As the plane descends into Seattle, you’ll see:
- The Space Needle – Seattle’s most recognizable landmark.
Puget Sound – A beautiful coastal waterway dotted with islands and ferries.
Elliott Bay & Downtown Seattle – The city’s skyscrapers and waterfront create a stunning aerial view.
For the best view of Mount Rainier, choose a window seat on the left side of the plane when flying north.
Conclusion
Flying from Los Angeles to Seattle isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s a visually stunning journey showcasing the best of the West Coast’s natural beauty. From the sunlit mountains of LA to the majestic peaks of the Cascades and the lush Pacific Northwest, this flight is a mini scenic tour of America’s most breathtaking landscapes.
Next time you book this flight, grab a window seat, have your camera ready, and enjoy the ride!
Have you taken this flight before? Share your favorite views in the comments below!
FAQs
1. How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Seattle?
The flight time from LAX to SEA is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on weather and air traffic.
2. What’s the best seat to see the mountains on this flight?
- Northbound to Seattle: Right-side window seat (Seat F) for views of Yosemite, Mount Shasta, and the Cascades.
Southbound to LA: Left-side window seat (Seat A) for the same mountain views in reverse.
3. Can you see Mount Rainier from the plane?
Yes! Mount Rainier is easily visible on a clear day as you approach Seattle, especially if you sit on the left side of the plane.
4. Do all flights follow the same route from LA to Seattle?
Most flights follow a similar north-south flight path over California, Oregon, and Washington, but variations can occur due to weather and air traffic control.
5. What other landmarks can you see on this flight?
- Besides mountains, you might see:
San Francisco Bay & Golden Gate Bridge (if your flight path takes you over the coast).
Columbia River (separating Oregon and Washington).
Portland, Oregon (visible just before reaching Washington state).
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