LAX to PDX Flight Time: How Long is the Trip?

The duration of air travel between Los Angeles, California, and Portland, Oregon, depends on several factors. Nonstop flights generally range from approximately one hour and 45 minutes to two hours and 15 minutes. Connecting flights, which involve a layover in another city, naturally increase the overall travel time, sometimes significantly. Variables such as weather conditions, air traffic congestion, and the specific flight path chosen by the airline can also influence the total time spent in transit.

Understanding typical flight durations is essential for travelers planning trips between these two West Coast cities. Accurate time estimations facilitate effective scheduling of connecting flights, ground transportation, and other logistical arrangements. This knowledge enables travelers to minimize potential delays and disruptions, optimizing their overall travel experience. Historically, advancements in aviation technology have gradually reduced flight times, making travel more efficient and accessible.

This discussion will further explore factors influencing flight duration, including airline choices, seasonal variations, and tips for minimizing travel time. Additionally, it will address related topics such as airport options in both cities, transportation to and from airports, and strategies for planning a seamless journey.

1. Direct flights

The statement "Direct flights: ~2 hours" provides a crucial baseline for understanding the overall travel time between Los Angeles and Portland. It represents the most efficient travel option, minimizing time spent in transit. This two-hour timeframe represents the core duration, excluding additional time required for airport procedures such as check-in, security screening, and baggage claim. For instance, a business traveler prioritizing a quick trip would likely opt for a direct flight to maximize productive time at their destination. This baseline also serves as a benchmark against which other travel options, such as connecting flights or alternative modes of transportation, can be evaluated.

The practical significance of understanding this baseline becomes apparent when considering the overall travel experience. Choosing a direct flight often translates to reduced travel fatigue, minimizing the impact of jet lag and maximizing time available for activities at the destination. Furthermore, direct flights generally offer greater predictability, reducing the risk of delays associated with connecting flights, missed connections, and potential baggage handling complications. Consider a scenario where a traveler has a time-sensitive meeting scheduled shortly after arrival in Portland; opting for a direct flight mitigates the risk of delays disrupting the schedule.

In conclusion, "Direct flights: ~2 hours" serves as a critical component in understanding the overall travel time between Los Angeles and Portland. It represents the most time-efficient option and provides a benchmark for evaluating alternative travel arrangements. This knowledge empowers travelers to make informed decisions based on individual needs and priorities, ultimately optimizing the travel experience and minimizing potential disruptions.

2. Connecting Flights

The phrase "Connecting flights: Longer" directly addresses the increased travel time associated with flights between Los Angeles and Portland that include a layover in another city. Understanding this increased duration is crucial for accurate travel planning and managing expectations regarding overall travel time. This section explores the various facets contributing to extended durations for connecting flights.

• Layover Duration

  Layover duration, the time spent at the connecting airport, significantly impacts overall travel time. Layovers can range from as short as 30 minutes to several hours, or even overnight. A short layover in Seattle might add only an hour to the total travel time, while an extended layover in Denver could add several hours. The chosen layover duration directly correlates to the overall length of the journey.

• Connecting Airport Location

  The geographical location of the connecting airport plays a critical role in determining the added travel time. A connection through a nearby city like San Francisco will typically result in a shorter overall travel time compared to a connection through a more distant city like Dallas. The additional flight segments required to reach and depart from the connecting airport contribute to the extended duration.

• Potential for Delays

  Connecting flights introduce increased vulnerability to delays. A delayed initial flight can lead to missed connections, requiring rebooking and potentially adding significant time to the overall journey. For example, a weather delay in Los Angeles could cause a traveler to miss their connecting flight in Phoenix, resulting in a much later arrival in Portland. This potential for cascading delays is a key consideration when choosing connecting flights.

• Airline Considerations

  Different airlines have varying route networks and schedules, influencing connection options and overall travel time. Some airlines may offer more frequent and convenient connections, while others may necessitate longer layovers or less desirable routing. Choosing an airline with a strong track record of on-time performance can help mitigate the risk of delays, though it doesn't eliminate the possibility entirely.

In summary, the extended duration associated with connecting flights between Los Angeles and Portland stems from a combination of layover duration, connecting airport location, the increased potential for delays, and specific airline schedules. Careful consideration of these factors allows travelers to make informed decisions based on their individual travel priorities, balancing cost considerations against the potential for increased travel time and associated risks.

3. Airline Variations

Airline variations play a significant role in determining flight duration between Los Angeles and Portland. Different airlines utilize varying aircraft types, impacting flight speeds and, consequently, travel time. Some airlines prioritize speed, opting for newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft capable of faster cruising speeds, while others may utilize older aircraft with lower cruising speeds. This choice directly influences the overall flight duration. Additionally, airlines employ different route strategies. While some may prioritize direct, straight-line routes, others might opt for slightly longer routes due to factors such as air traffic congestion or prevailing wind patterns. For example, Alaska Airlines, known for its strong presence in the Pacific Northwest, frequently offers direct flights between Los Angeles and Portland using Boeing 737 aircraft, typically resulting in flight times closer to the shorter end of the typical range. Conversely, another airline offering the same route might utilize a different aircraft type or a slightly less direct route, potentially resulting in a slightly longer flight duration. The practical implications of these variations are significant for travelers, particularly those with tight schedules or connecting flights.

Further illustrating this point, consider a scenario involving two different airlines offering flights from Los Angeles to Portland departing around the same time. Airline A utilizes a newer Airbus A321neo, known for its fuel efficiency and relatively high cruising speed. Airline B, on the other hand, uses an older Airbus A320, which typically cruises at a slightly lower speed. Even though both airlines offer direct flights, the flight operated by Airline A is likely to arrive in Portland slightly earlier due to the higher cruising speed of the aircraft. This seemingly minor difference can be crucial for travelers with tight connections or time-sensitive appointments. Beyond aircraft type, route variations also play a role. An airline choosing a more northerly route to take advantage of favorable tailwinds might experience a shorter flight time compared to an airline opting for a more southerly route facing headwinds. These variations, while often subtle, contribute to the overall range in flight durations observed between Los Angeles and Portland.

In summary, understanding the impact of airline variations on flight duration is essential for informed travel planning. Factors such as aircraft type, route selection, and airline-specific operational procedures all contribute to the overall time spent in transit. Travelers prioritizing speed and efficiency should research specific airlines, aircraft types, and typical flight times when booking their travel to ensure alignment with their individual needs and schedules. Recognizing these nuances empowers travelers to optimize their itineraries and minimize potential travel disruptions.

4. Weather Impact

Weather conditions significantly influence flight duration between Los Angeles and Portland. Adverse weather at either departure or arrival airports, or along the flight path, can lead to delays and increased travel time. Strong winds, heavy precipitation, and low visibility frequently cause departure delays, as aircraft may be unable to take off safely until conditions improve. Similarly, inclement weather at the destination airport can necessitate holding patterns or diversions to alternate airports, adding substantial time to the overall journey. For example, during winter storms, Portland International Airport (PDX) occasionally experiences heavy snowfall, impacting visibility and runway conditions. Flights destined for PDX during such conditions might be delayed, held in the air, or diverted to Seattle until conditions improve, adding unpredictable delays to scheduled arrival times.

The practical impact of weather-related delays extends beyond simply increasing overall travel time. Connecting flights can be missed, necessitating rebooking and potentially stranding travelers overnight. Furthermore, weather delays can disrupt carefully planned itineraries, impacting meetings, events, or other scheduled activities. Consider a scenario where a traveler has a connecting flight scheduled shortly after their anticipated arrival in Portland. A weather delay could cause them to miss their connection, resulting in a significant disruption to their travel plans. Moreover, airlines factor potential weather disruptions into their scheduling, often building in buffer time to account for potential delays. However, unforeseen and severe weather events can exceed these buffers, resulting in unexpected and often substantial delays.

In summary, understanding the impact of weather on flight duration between Los Angeles and Portland is crucial for effective travel planning. Travelers should monitor weather forecasts closely before and during their travel dates, anticipating potential disruptions and building flexibility into their itineraries. Utilizing flight tracking apps and staying informed through airline updates can provide valuable real-time information and assist in managing expectations during weather-related events. While airlines strive to mitigate weather-related disruptions, the unpredictable nature of weather necessitates proactive planning and a degree of flexibility on the part of travelers.

5. Air Traffic Delays

Air traffic delays represent a significant factor influencing flight duration between Los Angeles and Portland. These delays, stemming from congestion within the national airspace system, often increase overall travel time beyond scheduled estimates. Causes include high traffic volume at major airports, especially during peak hours, inclement weather impacting flight routes, and occasional disruptions due to air traffic control system limitations. For example, a flight departing from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), a major hub with substantial traffic, might experience delays due to congestion on the taxiways or during departure sequencing. Similarly, air traffic congestion around Portland International Airport (PDX) can lead to arrival delays, requiring aircraft to hold in the air before landing clearance is granted. The cascading effect of delays at one airport can ripple through the system, impacting subsequent flights and potentially causing delays for travelers connecting through other airports.

The practical significance of understanding air traffic delays becomes evident when considering the potential impact on travel plans. Delays can lead to missed connections, necessitating rebooking and potentially stranding travelers overnight. Business travelers, particularly those with time-sensitive meetings or commitments, experience considerable disruption from these delays. Imagine a scenario where a business traveler scheduled to arrive in Portland for an important meeting experiences a significant air traffic delay in Los Angeles. This delay could result in a missed meeting and a significant financial impact. Furthermore, leisure travelers might face disrupted vacation plans, missing pre-booked tours or activities. While airlines endeavor to provide accurate and updated information regarding delays, the dynamic nature of air traffic management means that delays can occur unexpectedly and evolve rapidly.

In summary, air traffic delays represent a critical component influencing travel time between Los Angeles and Portland. Travelers benefit from understanding the potential for delays, particularly during peak travel seasons or when flying through congested airports. Monitoring flight status through real-time tracking applications and maintaining communication with airlines allows for proactive adaptation to evolving situations. Building flexibility into travel itineraries, where feasible, helps mitigate the disruptive impact of potential air traffic delays, minimizing potential disruptions and facilitating a smoother travel experience.

6. Time of Year

Time of year exerts a notable influence on flight duration between Los Angeles and Portland. Seasonal weather patterns directly impact flight operations, potentially increasing travel time due to delays and altered flight paths. Winter months often bring inclement weather to the Pacific Northwest, including heavy rain, snow, and fog in Portland. These conditions frequently lead to departure delays from Los Angeles if aircraft require de-icing or if visibility at Portland International Airport (PDX) falls below safe operating limits. Similarly, strong winter winds can necessitate altered flight paths, increasing overall flight time. For example, a flight scheduled to arrive in Portland during a period of heavy snowfall might experience significant delays or even be diverted to a different airport until conditions improve. Conversely, summer months generally experience more stable weather patterns, reducing the likelihood of weather-related delays and facilitating adherence to more direct flight routes.

Beyond weather, seasonal variations in air traffic volume also contribute to potential differences in flight duration. Peak travel seasons, such as major holidays and summer vacation periods, typically witness increased air traffic congestion. This heightened volume can lead to delays in departure sequencing at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and increased holding times for arriving aircraft at PDX. For instance, flights scheduled during the Thanksgiving or Christmas holidays often experience longer taxi times and potential delays due to the sheer volume of air traffic. Understanding these seasonal patterns allows travelers to anticipate potential delays and adjust travel plans accordingly. Booking flights during off-peak seasons or selecting less congested travel times can mitigate the impact of seasonal variations on flight duration.

In summary, time of year acts as a significant determinant of flight duration between Los Angeles and Portland. Seasonal weather patterns and fluctuations in air traffic volume contribute to potential delays and necessitate adjustments to flight operations. Travelers gain an advantage by recognizing these seasonal influences, allowing for more realistic expectations regarding travel time and informed decision-making when booking flights. Proactive consideration of time of year contributes to a smoother, more predictable travel experience, minimizing the potential disruption of unexpected delays and optimizing overall travel efficiency.

7. Airport Choices (LAX, PDX, others)

Airport selection significantly influences overall travel time between the Los Angeles and Portland metropolitan areas. While Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Portland International Airport (PDX) serve as the primary airports for each city, considering alternative airports within reasonable proximity can sometimes offer advantages in terms of flight availability, cost, and overall travel duration. This exploration delves into the impact of airport choices on travel time, highlighting the nuances of selecting optimal departure and arrival points.

• Primary Airports (LAX and PDX)

  LAX and PDX offer the most frequent and convenient direct flights, minimizing transit time. However, these major hubs often experience higher levels of air traffic congestion, potentially leading to delays, especially during peak hours. Choosing flights during off-peak times or opting for airlines known for efficient operations at these airports can mitigate potential delays.

• Alternative Airports (e.g., Burbank, Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR); Ontario, Ontario International Airport (ONT); John Wayne Airport (SNA))

  Smaller airports such as Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), Ontario International Airport (ONT), or John Wayne Airport (SNA) in the Los Angeles area, or smaller regional airports serving Portland, might offer less frequent direct flights but potentially reduced congestion and shorter check-in and security lines. However, the added ground transportation time to and from these airports must be factored into the overall travel equation. For instance, choosing BUR might reduce flight time slightly, but if ground transportation to BUR adds an hour compared to LAX, the overall benefit diminishes.

• Connecting Flights and Airport Hubs

  When connecting flights are necessary, the chosen connecting airport becomes a crucial factor influencing overall travel time. Connecting through a major hub airport like Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) might offer more frequent connections but potentially introduce greater risk of delays due to higher traffic volume. Connecting through a smaller airport could reduce congestion but potentially limit connection options and increase layover durations. Evaluating the trade-offs between connection frequency and potential delays becomes essential when selecting connecting airports.

• Driving Distance and Ground Transportation

  The distance between the chosen airport and the final destination within the respective metropolitan areas significantly affects overall travel time. LAX, while offering numerous flights, might involve a longer drive to a final destination within the greater Los Angeles area compared to a closer airport like BUR or LGB. Similar considerations apply to the Portland area, where driving time from PDX to specific destinations can vary considerably. Factoring in ground transportation time, whether by car, public transport, or ride-sharing services, is crucial for accurate estimation of total travel duration.

In conclusion, airport selection presents a complex interplay of factors impacting total travel time between Los Angeles and Portland. While primary airports offer convenience and frequency, alternative airports present potential advantages in terms of reduced congestion and potentially shorter flight durations. Careful evaluation of driving distances, ground transportation options, and the potential for delays at various airports enables informed decisions tailored to individual travel priorities. Understanding these nuances empowers travelers to optimize airport choices, minimizing overall travel time and maximizing efficiency.

8. Departure Time

Departure time plays a multifaceted role in influencing overall travel time between Los Angeles and Portland. While the scheduled flight duration remains relatively constant, the actual time spent traveling can vary considerably depending on the chosen departure time. This variation stems primarily from the impact of departure time on potential delays related to air traffic congestion and the potential for cascading delays impacting connecting flights. Early morning departures from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), for example, often experience less congestion, potentially reducing taxi and departure delays. Conversely, departing during peak hours, typically mid-morning to early afternoon, increases the likelihood of encountering significant congestion, potentially increasing overall travel time due to extended taxi times and holding patterns before takeoff clearance is granted. Choosing a less congested departure time, even if it necessitates an earlier wake-up call, can contribute to a smoother and potentially faster overall travel experience.

The impact of departure time extends beyond the immediate departure airport. Selecting a departure time that minimizes the risk of initial delays reduces the likelihood of missing connecting flights. For instance, a traveler connecting through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) benefits from an on-time departure from LAX. A delayed departure increases the risk of missing the connecting flight in Seattle, potentially leading to significant delays and disruptions to travel plans. Furthermore, departure time influences arrival time in Portland, affecting ground transportation options and potential connections to onward destinations. Arriving during peak traffic hours in Portland can significantly increase travel time to the final destination, while arriving during off-peak hours facilitates smoother and faster ground transportation. Consider a traveler arriving in Portland during rush hour; the time required to reach their final destination within the city could add considerably to overall travel time compared to an arrival during a less congested period.

In summary, departure time represents a crucial factor influencing overall travel duration between Los Angeles and Portland. Strategic selection of departure time, considering factors such as air traffic congestion patterns and potential connections, enables travelers to minimize potential delays and optimize overall travel efficiency. While the scheduled flight time provides a baseline, recognizing the influence of departure time empowers travelers to make informed decisions that contribute to a smoother, more predictable, and potentially faster travel experience. Careful planning and consideration of departure time, in conjunction with other factors such as airline choice and airport selection, allows travelers to exert greater control over their overall travel experience and minimize the disruptive impact of unforeseen delays.

9. Route Specifics

Route specifics constitute a critical factor influencing flight duration between Los Angeles and Portland. While seemingly straightforward, the actual path an aircraft takes between these two cities can vary, impacting overall travel time. Understanding the nuances of route selection provides valuable insight into the complexities of air travel and empowers informed decision-making.

• Direct vs. Indirect Routing

  Direct routes, as the name suggests, follow a relatively straight path between Los Angeles and Portland, minimizing distance and, consequently, flight time. Indirect routes, often necessitated by air traffic congestion or weather systems, involve deviations from the most direct path, adding to the overall distance traveled and increasing flight duration. For example, a direct route might take a flight over central California and then north towards Portland, while an indirect route might involve a more westerly path over the Pacific Ocean to circumvent air traffic or weather systems, adding mileage and time to the journey.

• Air Traffic Control

  Air traffic control dictates the precise path an aircraft follows, prioritizing safety and efficient airspace management. Instructions from air traffic controllers might require aircraft to alter their planned routes to maintain safe separation from other aircraft or to navigate around restricted airspace. These adjustments, while necessary, can introduce deviations from the most direct route, potentially adding to overall flight time. A flight initially planned to follow a direct route might be instructed to take a slightly longer, more circuitous path to avoid congested areas or to accommodate other aircraft arriving and departing from airports along the way.

• Jet Streams and Wind Conditions

  Jet streams, high-altitude air currents, significantly impact flight times. Flights traveling with a tailwind, meaning the wind is blowing in the same direction as the aircraft's trajectory, experience reduced travel times, as the tailwind effectively boosts the aircraft's speed. Conversely, headwinds increase travel time, as the aircraft must contend with opposing air currents. Airlines and air traffic control consider these wind patterns when planning routes, aiming to maximize tailwind utilization and minimize headwind impact. A flight encountering strong tailwinds might arrive in Portland earlier than scheduled, while a flight facing strong headwinds could experience a longer flight duration.

• Altitude Optimization

  Aircraft typically cruise at altitudes between 30,000 and 40,000 feet. The specific altitude chosen for a particular flight depends on factors such as wind conditions, air traffic congestion, and aircraft performance characteristics. Higher altitudes generally offer thinner air density, reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency, potentially leading to slightly shorter flight times. However, reaching and maintaining higher altitudes requires more fuel initially, introducing a trade-off between fuel efficiency and climb time. Airlines carefully calculate optimal cruising altitudes to balance these factors and minimize overall flight duration while maximizing fuel efficiency.

In summary, route specifics introduce a layer of complexity to understanding flight durations between Los Angeles and Portland. Factors such as directness of routing, air traffic control instructions, wind conditions, and altitude optimization interact to determine the precise path and overall time spent in transit. Recognizing these factors empowers travelers to interpret variations in flight times and appreciate the dynamic nature of air travel operations. While scheduled flight times offer a baseline, understanding route specifics provides valuable context for interpreting actual flight durations and anticipating potential variations.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common inquiries regarding flight durations between Los Angeles and Portland, providing concise and informative responses.

Question 1: What is the typical flight duration for a nonstop flight between Los Angeles and Portland?

Nonstop flights generally range from approximately one hour and 45 minutes to two hours and 15 minutes.

Question 2: How do connecting flights affect overall travel time?

Connecting flights introduce layovers, increasing total travel time depending on the layover duration and location. Layovers can add anywhere from an hour to several hours, or even necessitate overnight stays.

Question 3: What are the primary factors influencing variations in flight times?

Key factors include weather conditions, air traffic congestion, airline-specific routing, and the chosen departure and arrival airports.

Question 4: How does the time of year impact flight duration?

Winter weather in the Pacific Northwest can cause delays and necessitate rerouting, potentially increasing travel time. Peak travel seasons also experience increased air traffic, contributing to potential delays.

Question 5: Are there alternative airports to consider besides LAX and PDX?

Smaller airports such as Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), Ontario International Airport (ONT), or John Wayne Airport (SNA) in the Los Angeles area, and smaller regional airports serving Portland, might offer alternatives. However, ground transportation time to and from these airports must be factored into overall travel time.

Question 6: How can travelers minimize potential travel time and disruptions?

Strategies include booking direct flights whenever possible, flying during off-peak hours, monitoring weather forecasts and flight statuses, selecting airlines with strong on-time performance records, and factoring in potential ground transportation time.

Understanding these factors allows for more accurate travel planning and informed decision-making, optimizing the overall travel experience.

The following sections will explore strategies for finding the best flight deals and provide tips for a smoother travel experience.

Tips for Efficient Travel between Los Angeles and Portland

Efficient travel planning hinges on understanding key factors influencing flight duration. These tips provide practical guidance for optimizing travel time between Los Angeles and Portland.

Tip 1: Prioritize Direct Flights: Direct flights eliminate the time added by layovers, minimizing overall travel duration and reducing the risk of missed connections. While potentially more expensive, the time saved often outweighs the cost difference, especially for time-sensitive travel.

Tip 2: Consider Alternative Airports: While Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Portland International Airport (PDX) offer the most frequent flights, exploring smaller regional airports like Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) or Ontario International Airport (ONT) can sometimes yield shorter flight times and reduced airport congestion. However, factoring in ground transportation time to and from these alternative airports is essential.

Tip 3: Fly During Off-Peak Hours: Opting for flights outside peak travel times, such as early mornings or late evenings, can minimize the impact of air traffic congestion, potentially reducing delays and overall travel time. Avoiding peak hours also often translates to less crowded airports and a smoother travel experience.

Tip 4: Monitor Weather Forecasts and Flight Statuses: Weather significantly impacts flight operations. Staying informed about weather forecasts and monitoring real-time flight statuses allows for proactive adjustments to travel plans, minimizing the disruption of potential weather-related delays.

Tip 5: Leverage Flight Tracking Applications: Utilizing flight tracking apps provides real-time updates on flight progress, gate information, and potential delays. This information empowers travelers to adapt to changing circumstances and make informed decisions regarding connecting flights or ground transportation arrangements.

Tip 6: Research Airline On-Time Performance: Airlines vary in their on-time performance records. Choosing an airline with a strong track record of punctuality reduces the likelihood of delays impacting overall travel time and minimizing disruptions to connecting flights.

Tip 7: Factor in Ground Transportation Time: Accurately estimating ground transportation time to and from airports is crucial for realistic travel planning. Consider factors such as traffic congestion, distance, and available transportation options (car rental, ride-sharing, public transport) when calculating overall travel duration.

Implementing these strategies enhances travel efficiency, minimizing potential delays and maximizing productive time at the destination. Informed planning based on these insights contributes to a smoother and more predictable travel experience.

The following conclusion synthesizes key takeaways and emphasizes the importance of proactive planning for efficient travel between Los Angeles and Portland.

Conclusion

Flight duration between Los Angeles and Portland represents a multifaceted topic influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While direct flights typically range from one hour and 45 minutes to two hours and 15 minutes, actual travel time experiences considerable variation. Factors such as connecting flights, airline choices, weather conditions, air traffic congestion, time of year, airport selections, departure times, and specific flight routes all contribute to the overall duration of the journey. Understanding these elements proves crucial for accurate travel planning and effective management of potential delays. Choosing direct flights, flying during off-peak hours, monitoring weather patterns, and selecting airlines with strong on-time performance records represent proactive strategies for minimizing travel time and disruptions. Furthermore, considering alternative airports and factoring in ground transportation time contribute to a comprehensive understanding of overall travel duration.

Efficient travel between Los Angeles and Portland relies on informed decision-making based on a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing flight times. Proactive planning, incorporating flexibility to accommodate potential delays, and utilizing available resources such as flight tracking applications and real-time weather updates empower travelers to navigate the complexities of air travel effectively. By recognizing the dynamic nature of flight durations and implementing strategic planning techniques, travelers optimize their travel experiences, minimizing potential disruptions and maximizing productive time at their destination. Ultimately, a thorough understanding of the variables affecting flight times empowers informed choices and facilitates a smoother, more predictable, and efficient journey between Los Angeles and Portland.