Moab: Backcountry Arches Helicopter Tour

If you’re looking for a way to see some of Utah’s most iconic landscapes without the stress of hiking or driving, the Moab: Backcountry Arches Helicopter Tour offers an exhilarating alternative. This 30-minute flight takes you over the rugged splendor of Canyonlands and the Arches National Park backcountry, providing a perspective few get to experience firsthand.

What we love about this tour is its ability to combine the thrill of flying with the chance to see jaw-dropping red rock formations, natural arches, and remote canyon scenery. The small-group setting offers a more intimate experience, and the narration helps you understand what you’re seeing. On the flip side, keep in mind that this is a brief experience—perfect if you’re short on time or want a quick adrenaline boost, but not ideal if you’re craving an in-depth exploration. This tour suits travelers who want a memorable, scenic highlight to their Utah trip and don’t mind the altitude or the price.

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views of seven arches and Canyonlands’ Island in the Sky District.
• Private helicopter experience with narration, making it personalized and informative.
• Limited group size (up to three participants), enhancing comfort and engagement.
• Ideal for those seeking a quick, scenic adventure rather than a full-day tour.
• Includes all fees and taxes, ensuring straightforward pricing.
• Weather-dependent—cancellations or rescheduling might occur if conditions are poor.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Moab Helicopter Tour

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

The journey begins at Canyonlands Field Airport, about 15 miles north of Moab. After checking in at the Pinnacle Helicopters desk inside the main terminal, you’ll receive a safety briefing, and then it’s time to step into the helicopter. The aircraft is small and designed for a personalized experience—up to three passengers per flight, which means plenty of space to enjoy the views.

Once airborne, the first sights are the Determination Towers—tall, dramatic spires that seem to rise straight out of the landscape. From there, your pilot will take you over the Gemini Bridges, a spectacular rock formation that’s popular with off-roaders and photographers alike. The Behind the Rocks Wilderness follows, where you’ll see fins and arches that are only fully appreciated from above. This part of the flight highlights Utah’s geological complexity—layers of rock folded and fractured into an extraordinary landscape.

Next, you’ll fly into Castle Valley, home to the Castleton Tower, a pinnacle famous among climbers. From the air, it looks like a natural skyscraper rising amid the desert. Then, the tour heads toward the Colorado River canyon, where you’ll spot rugged 4×4 trails bustling with Jeeps, and the vast waterway carving through the landscape.

Before returning to Moab, the pilot will point out famous arches such as Corona Arch, Jeep Arch, and Uranium Arch—all visible from the sky, emphasizing their scale and beauty in a way impossible from the ground. The entire flight lasts about 30 minutes, packing a lot of scenery into a concise window.

What Makes This Tour Special?

One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is the knowledgeable narration. The pilot doesn’t just fly; they provide context, history, and fun facts that deepen the experience. This makes the flight not just a sightseeing trip but also a mini-lesson in the geology and natural history of the area.

The views themselves are breathtaking. Seeing seven arches from above allows you to grasp their scale—something that photos or ground visits can’t quite capture. The remote arches and red rocks seen from the helicopter evoke a sense of exploration and awe, especially when contrasted with the vastness of the Colorado River.

Practical Details and Considerations

Pricing is $349 per person, which can seem steep for a half-hour experience. However, considering that the price includes all fees and taxes for a private flight, many travelers find the cost justifiable for something so unique and memorable. The small group size—limited to three—means you won’t be sharing your views with strangers, adding to the sense of exclusivity.

The tour departs mostly in the morning, which typically offers the best lighting and calmer weather conditions. Keep in mind that weather can affect the schedule—if conditions are poor, your flight might be canceled or rescheduled, so flexibility is recommended.

The experience is wheelchair accessible, a thoughtful touch that makes this adventure available to more travelers. However, there is a weight limit—individuals over 299 pounds may need to consider other options.

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What to Keep in Mind

• The tour is not suitable for anyone over 300 lbs.
• You’ll need to discrete weigh-in at check-in.
• The duration is just 30 minutes, so if you’re expecting a long scenic flight, this is more of a highlight reel.
• No food or drinks are included, so plan accordingly before or after the flight.
• The experience is best for those who enjoy aerial views and natural wonders, rather than detailed ground explorations.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This helicopter experience offers a rare vantage point that elevates your appreciation of Utah’s stunning landscapes. If you love spectacular vistas, geological formations, or just want a thrill, this tour delivers all that in a short, well-organized package.

The private aspect and friendly narration mean you’re not just a passenger—you’re part of a tailored experience that leaves you with incredible photos and memories. For photographers or travelers craving a bird’s-eye perspective of formations like Corona Arch and Castleton Tower, this is a real treat.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a quick but immersive taste of the area’s grandeur. It’s perfect for those who want to see Utah’s iconic formations from above without embarking on long hikes or drives. It also suits small groups or couples wanting a more private, personalized adventure.

However, if you’re not comfortable with heights or have significant weight restrictions, it’s worth considering alternative ways to explore the area. Also, those who prefer longer tours or ground-based exploration might find this flight too brief as a standalone experience.

Final Thoughts

The Moab: Backcountry Arches Helicopter Tour is a valuable addition for anyone wanting an unforgettable view of Utah’s famous red rocks. It’s a well-organized, intimate, scenic adventure that combines spectacular scenery with expert narration. While it’s a premium experience in pricing, the memories and photo opportunities make it worthwhile for many travelers.

If you’re short on time but want to see as much as possible from a perspective few get to enjoy, this tour can be a real highlight of your Utah visit. It’s especially perfect for those who love nature, adventure, and a touch of luxury.

FAQ

What is the duration of the helicopter tour?
The flight lasts approximately 30 minutes, offering a quick but comprehensive aerial view of the area.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the flight is private and limited to three participants, providing a more personal and less crowded experience.

What sights will I see?
You’ll see seven arches, Canyonlands’ Island in the Sky District, Determination Towers, Gemini Bridges, Behind the Rocks Wilderness, Castle Valley, Castleton Tower, and the Colorado River canyon.

Does the price include taxes and fees?
Yes, the $349 per person price covers all fees and taxes for the private flight.

Are there any age or weight restrictions?
While children are not specifically mentioned, individuals over 299 pounds are not suitable for the experience. Discrete weight checks are part of the check-in process.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Weather conditions may cause cancellations or rescheduling.

Is food or drinks included?
No, passengers need to arrange their own food and drinks before or after the tour.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Check-in is at the Redtail Air/Pinnacle Helicopters desk inside Canyonlands Field Airport, about 15 miles north of Moab.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for the weather, and consider sunglasses and sunscreen for sun protection.

Is wheelchair accessibility available?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm specific needs with the provider beforehand.

To sum it up, the Moab helicopter tour offers a thrilling, intimate peek into one of Utah’s most scenic regions. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a quick but spectacular aerial overview of the area’s iconic formations and wilderness. While it’s a premium experience, the views and narration provide a memorable highlight that many will cherish long after they’ve returned home.

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