Zion National Park, Canaan Cliffs: Extended Helicopter Tour

Discover the Zion National Park Helicopter Tour with Extended Canaan Cliffs Loop

This 55-minute helicopter tour offers an unforgettable way to see Zion National Park from above, including a rare extended loop through Canaan Mountain Wilderness. Priced at $499 per person, it provides panoramic views of some of the most striking rock formations and geological features in Utah. The tour departs from a private heliport and is suitable for small groups of up to 6 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

What makes this tour stand out is the additional loop through Canaan Mountain Wilderness, giving viewers an exclusive perspective rarely seen from the ground. While the flight is roughly 55 minutes, it covers 100 miles of scenic territory, making it an efficient but comprehensive aerial tour. The experience is ideal for those who crave a combination of stunning vistas, educational commentary, and a touch of adventure, including an optional 30-minute butte landing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Duration: 55 minutes of helicopter flight over Zion and Canaan Mountain Wilderness
• Price: $499 per person with options for private tours and a butte landing
• Group Size: Limited to 6 participants for a more intimate experience
• Highlights: Breathtaking rock formations, geology insights, and aerial views of Zion’s colorful landscape
• Departures: Usually available in the morning and afternoon
• Booking Flexibility: Reserve now, pay later with free cancellation up to 24 hours before

The Starting Point: Private Heliport in Utah

The tour begins at a private heliport in Utah, where you check in 30 minutes before the scheduled flight. This check-in process involves a safety briefing and waivers. Arriving early ensures smooth boarding and time to prepare for the flight. The private setting helps avoid crowds, creating a relaxed atmosphere for the adventure ahead.

The Helicopter Flight Itself: Panoramic Zion and Canaan Mountain Views

Once airborne, the helicopter soars over Zion National Park, revealing a kaleidoscope of colors on the park’s impressive rock formations. The flight offers a comprehensive view of Zion’s dark red rock fingers of Kolob Canyons and the Red Butte Mountain Range.

The extended loop through Canaan Mountain Wilderness adds a unique element to this tour, providing perspectives that are seldom accessible from the ground. The aerial vantage point allows for a complete appreciation of Zion’s landscape, from sweeping cliffs to winding canyons, all bathed in the changing light of the day.

Geology and Landscape Insights from Your Pilot

Throughout the flight, knowledgeable pilots share insights about Zion’s geology, explaining the formation of the brilliant rock formations and the significance of their colors. The pilots also discuss Zion’s key features, such as the Kolob Canyons and Red Butte Mountain Range, enhancing the visual experience with educational commentary.

More Great Tours Nearby

Optional Butte Landing: An Extra Touch of Adventure

For those who select the butte landing option, the tour includes a 30-minute stop on a remote butte within Zion. This landing provides a rare opportunity to step out of the helicopter, enjoy the landscape up close, and take photos. The landing adds a memorable element to the experience, though it requires prior booking and understanding of the weight restrictions.

Logistics and Practical Tips for the Tour

Arrive 30 minutes early at the private heliport for check-in and safety briefings. Passengers are weighed during check-in to ensure safety, with guests over 250 lbs (113 kg) required to purchase an additional seat.

The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or those over 250 lbs. Booking a private tour eliminates the minimum passenger requirement and allows for a more personalized experience, with a total group weight limit of 1200 lbs.

Travelers are encouraged to bring a camera to capture the stunning views, and a passport or ID may be required for check-in. The flight’s timing is influenced by weather and wind conditions, so some variability in duration may occur.

The Experience: Small Group and Personalized Attention

This small group tour ensures a more personalized, less crowded experience, with a maximum of 6 participants. The flight is led by an English-speaking pilot, who acts as both guide and storyteller, sharing interesting details about Zion’s geology and landscape features.

The 55-minute flight is usually scheduled in the morning or afternoon, giving flexibility in planning. The tour is designed to give a rundown of Zion’s natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities for photos and learning.

The Value: Combining Scenic Views and Educational Insights

At $499 per person, this helicopter tour offers a premium experience that combines awe-inspiring vistas with educational commentary from an experienced pilot. The optional butte landing provides additional value for those seeking an adventurous touch. The inclusion of waivers, safety briefing, bottled water, and the heliport facility charge makes the pricing transparent.

Compared to ground-based tours, this aerial experience provides a unique perspective on Zion’s colorful rock formations and geological features. It’s especially appealing to visitors wanting a quick but impactful overview of Zion’s landscape from the sky.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This helicopter experience suits those who value scenic beauty, are interested in geology, and prefer a short, guided aerial tour. It’s perfect for visitors celebrating special occasions, like birthdays or anniversaries, as the pilot’s storytelling and photo opportunities create memorable moments.

However, the activity’s physical requirements and weight restrictions mean it’s best suited for most able-bodied travelers under 250 lbs. The small group setting ensures an intimate adventure, ideal for those wanting more personal attention.

Zion Helicopters LLC: The Experience Provider

The tour is operated by Zion Helicopters LLC, known for their professional service and engaging pilots. Their reputation is reflected in the reviews praising the knowledgeable pilots like Oliver and Jordan, who make the experience both informative and fun.

Similar Zion Helicopter Tours and Alternatives

For travelers interested in exploring Zion from the air or on the ground, several other options are available. These include scenic helicopter tours of Zion, jeep tours, and night sky experiences. Each offers a different way to see Zion’s natural beauty, but the Canaan Cliffs extended helicopter tour remains a top choice for those seeking a comprehensive aerial overview with a unique extended route.

Zion National Park, Canaan Cliffs: Extended Helicopter Tour – Final Thoughts

This 55-minute helicopter tour offers a balanced mix of spectacular views, educational narration, and optional adventure with the butte landing. The private heliport, small group size, and professional pilots contribute to a comfortable and memorable experience for those eager to see Zion from above.

While the price point reflects a premium experience, the opportunity to fly over Zion’s most iconic formations and explore Canaan Mountain Wilderness from the air makes it worthwhile for many visitors. It’s particularly suited for photo enthusiasts, geology buffs, and anyone celebrating a special occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this helicopter tour suitable for children or people with mobility impairments?
This activity is not suitable for people with mobility impairments. Children under a certain age may not be recommended, and guests over 250 lbs must purchase an additional seat.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a camera to capture the views and a passport or ID for check-in purposes. Arrive 30 minutes early to complete check-in and safety procedures.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility for changing plans.

Is there an option for a private tour?
Yes, private tours are available, with no minimum passenger requirement and a total group weight limit of 1200 lbs. They also do not require a minimum number of participants.

How long does the helicopter flight last?
The flight duration is approximately 55 minutes, covering 100 miles of Zion’s landscape and the extended loop through Canaan Mountain Wilderness.

What makes this tour stand out from other Zion aerial tours?
The extended loop through Canaan Mountain Wilderness is a unique feature, offering views seldom seen from the ground. Coupled with insightful commentary from experienced pilots, it provides a comprehensive aerial experience of Zion.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, the tour can be booked with flexible reservation options and pay later, making last-minute plans feasible, provided minimum participation requirements are met.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby