Helicopter Tour of the North Canyon with Optional Hummer Excursion

Experience the Grand Canyon’s North Rim from the Air for $289

This helicopter tour of the North Canyon offers an impressive way to see the Grand Canyon from above, starting at $289 per person. The flight lasts approximately 25 to 30 minutes, taking you over some of the most stunning and less accessible parts of the canyon, including Kaibab National Forest and the Dragon Corridor, the deepest and widest stretch of the canyon. This tour departs from Papillon Helicopters near Grand Canyon Village, making it a convenient choice for visitors already in the area.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join. While hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, the meeting point offers free parking. Many book this experience about 47 days in advance, highlighting its popularity. The group size is limited to 36 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience. The tour’s average rating of 4.6 out of 5, based on 184 reviews, reflects strong guest satisfaction, especially praising the guides, views, and overall value.

Key Points

• 25-minute helicopter flights provide expansive aerial views of the North and South Rims of the Grand Canyon.
• Optional Hummer tour adds approximately 2 hours of exploring Moran Point, Grandview Point, and other rim highlights after the helicopter ride.
• The tour departs from Papillon Helicopters in Grand Canyon Village, with parking available.
• Most travelers book 1-2 months in advance, emphasizing the importance of early planning.
• All passengers must be under 300 lbs; those exceeding this weight must purchase an extra seat.
• No hotel pickup is included, so guests need to arrange their own transportation to the meeting point.

The Grand Canyon North Rim Helicopter Experience

The key feature of this tour is the chance to soar over the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, a less crowded and often more tranquil part of this natural wonder. The state-of-the-art Bell Helicopter offers a smooth, safe flight, with professional pilots at the controls. The visual experience is amplified by the colorful vistas visible from the helicopter, which are only accessible via aerial view.

While the flight duration is about 25 to 30 minutes, it’s packed with unmatched perspectives of the canyon’s vastness. Travelers often mention the breathtaking scenery and steady piloting as highlights, with many wishing the flight could be longer to absorb more of the canyon’s beauty.

From the Helipad to the Canyon: Meeting and Arrival Details

The tour begins at Papillon Helicopters, located at 3568 Airport Rd in Grand Canyon Village. Guests are advised to arrive 30 minutes early for check-in, ensuring a smooth boarding process. Parking is free, making it simple for those driving themselves, but no hotel pickup is provided. The entire process is streamlined, with confirmation received within 48 hours after booking, depending on availability.

The group size maxes out at 36, which helps maintain a comfortable environment. The tour is suitable for most travelers aged 18 and older, who must present government-issued photo ID at check-in. Children under 2 fly free as lap children, but children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Scenic Highlights: Flying Over the Kaibab Forest and Dragon Corridor

The flight path takes travelers over Kaibab National Forest, offering a lush contrast to the canyon’s arid landscape. The Dragon Corridor, the canyon’s deepest and widest section, is a standout feature visible from the air. Guests often remark on the colorful vistas and vast scale that leave a lasting impression.

These sights are only visible from a helicopter, making this tour particularly special. The aerial perspective reveals the canyon’s intricate formations, providing a unique appreciation of its grandeur that ground-based viewpoints can’t match.

Optional Hummer Tour: Exploring the Rim in Comfort

For those who choose the Hummer upgrade, the experience continues after the helicopter flight with a two-hour tour along the rim. The expert guide leads travelers through Moran Point, Grandview Point, and additional scenic stops. The Hummer provides a comfortable and exciting way to see more of the canyon’s rim, with commentary explaining the area’s highlights.

This extension is ideal for visitors who want to combine aerial views with ground-level exploration, gaining a more comprehensive understanding of the Grand Canyon’s beauty and geology.

Practical Details and Booking Considerations

This tour is most popular when booked about 47 days in advance. The total weight per passenger is limited to 300 lbs, with additional seats available for heavier guests, payable on the day of the tour. All passengers must arrive 30 minutes early to check in, and the entire experience lasts from 25 minutes up to 4.5 hours with the optional Hummer segment.

Weather conditions can impact the schedule—poor weather may lead to cancellations, with options for rescheduling or refunds. The tour requires good weather for safety reasons, and the pilots make the final call on flight viability.

What Past Guests Say About This Tour

Reviews consistently highlight the stunning views and professional guides as major strengths. Many travelers note that the pilot’s steady hand and friendly demeanor enhance the experience. Several mention the beautiful scenery as a memory they cherish, with some wishing the flight duration was longer.

Guests also appreciate the value for money, especially when combined with the optional Hummer tour. The easy check-in process and well-maintained facilities receive praise, along with the professionalism of the team.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This helicopter tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting an overview of the canyon’s most breathtaking vistas. It’s also a great choice for returning visitors seeking a different perspective. The optional Hummer upgrade appeals to those interested in a ground-level exploration with added comfort.

Travelers with an interest in photography will find the aerial views ideal for capturing the canyon’s vibrant colors and vastness. The tour suits most people, but those over 300 lbs will need to purchase an extra seat, and guests should be comfortable with a small group helicopter environment.

Limitations and Considerations

While the flight experience is highly praised, some reviewers mention that only 25 minutes is spent over the canyon, with additional time spent flying over plateau areas. No hotel pickup means travelers are responsible for reaching the departure point. The lack of in-flight commentary is noted by some, although others enjoy the peaceful, music-accompanied flight.

Weather can cause cancellations, so flexible plans are advised. The seating in the helicopter is assigned based on weight and balance, which might impact seat choice unless special requests are made.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For those eager to see the Grand Canyon from the air, this helicopter tour of the North Rim delivers spectacular views and a smooth flying experience. The optional Hummer tour adds an extra layer of exploration, making it a comprehensive canyon adventure.

While not the longest flight available, the quality of the scenery and professionalism of the operator make this experience stand out. It’s best suited for travelers who want a high-impact, memorable way to appreciate the canyon’s immense scale and beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a minimum age to fly on this tour?
Children under 2 years old are considered lap children and fly free. All passengers 18 and older need to present government-issued photo ID.

Can I bring a child without an adult?
Children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

What aircraft is used for this tour?
The tour operates with state-of-the-art EC-130 Eco-Star helicopters, known for their comfort and safety.

How long is the flight?
The actual flying time is approximately 25 to 30 minutes.

What is included in the tour price?
The aircraft flight and professional pilot are included. If the Hummer option is selected, a two-hour rim exploration follows the helicopter ride.

Are there any restrictions on weight?
Yes, passengers over 300 lbs must purchase an additional seat, payable on the tour day.

Can I book a private helicopter?
Yes, you can reserve the entire helicopter by purchasing all seats.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring valid photo ID, cameras, and sunglasses. Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Flights may be canceled due to poor weather conditions. In such cases, you’ll be offered rescheduling or a full refund.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, guests need to arrange their own transportation to the Papillon Helicopters departure point.

Can I bring luggage or backpacks?
Due to limited space, baggage is not permitted onboard. Leave your items at the terminal for safekeeping.

This helicopter tour of the North Canyon offers a remarkable perspective of the Grand Canyon’s sprawling beauty. With professional pilots, stunning vistas, and the option to extend the experience with a Hummer tour, it stands out as a memorable way to explore this natural marvel.