55 Mile – Helicopter Tour Around Zion National Park

If you’re planning a trip to Zion National Park and want to see its striking scenery without the hassle of crowds or lengthy hikes, a helicopter tour might just be the perfect addition to your itinerary. We’ve looked into the 55 Mile Helicopter Tour around Zion, and while we haven’t flown it ourselves, the reviews and details suggest it’s a compelling way to appreciate the park’s grandeur from a different perspective.

What really stands out is how this tour offers a quick, yet expansive, aerial glimpse of Zion’s most notable features—covering 55 miles in just half an hour. Plus, the opportunity to avoid busy trails and still see the park’s highlights is appealing, especially during peak season. On the flip side, it’s a relatively short experience and can be affected by weather or group size, so travelers should plan accordingly.

This tour is best suited for visitors who crave spectacular views, have limited time, or prefer a relaxing, scenic overview over strenuous hiking. It’s also a good fit for those who want to share a memorable experience with family or friends, all while getting a sense of Zion’s vast beauty from above.

Key Points

• The 30-minute helicopter ride covers 55 miles around Zion, including spots like Kolob Canyon and Smith Mesa.
• It’s an excellent way to see Zion’s scenery from a safe distance, avoiding crowded land trails.
• Many travelers praise the experience for its stunning views and knowledgeable pilots.
• The tour departs from a private heliport just minutes from Zion’s main entrance.
• The experience is suitable for most travelers, with a weight limit of 250 lbs per passenger.
• Booking is usually done about 28 days in advance, indicating a popular but well-organized activity.

What’s Included and How It Works

Starting at Zion Helicopters’ private heliport near Springdale, you’ll check in quickly before being escorted to your helicopter. The departure point is conveniently close to both the town and the park entrance, making logistics straightforward. After a brief safety check, your pilot, who can offer insights into Zion’s geology and history, will take you on a flight that’s approximately 30 minutes long.

You’ll see Zion’s famous terraced canyons and cliffs from the air, as well as lesser-known but equally impressive sites like Kolob Canyon and Smith Mesa. The tour is designed to give you a broad perspective of Zion’s rugged landscape, stretching out over 55 miles—an overview that’s impossible from the ground or in a car.

The helicopter’s altitude is kept at a level that allows you to enjoy wide, sweeping views without flying directly over the park itself, respecting restrictions that protect Zion’s natural environment.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins at Zion’s private heliport, located just a few minutes from the main park entrance. After check-in and a safety briefing, you’ll board a helicopter that can accommodate up to six travelers, making for a relatively intimate experience. The pilot will give a brief introduction before your flight.

Once airborne, the real magic begins. As the helicopter lifts off, you’ll immediately notice Zion’s kaleidoscope of colors—reds, oranges, and browns—unfolding beneath you. Flying north between Smith Mesa and Zion, the pilot will share facts about the geology and formation of the park, enriching the experience.

One of the highlights is the view of Kolob Canyon, which offers dramatic, jagged cliffs that aren’t always visible from the ground. Smith Mesa, with its expansive flat-topped appearance, is another impressive sight. The Canaan Mountain Wilderness Area, with its rugged terrain, rounds out the flight plan.

While the flight is swift, it’s packed with visual drama. Many reviewers mention how the experience exceeds expectations—seeing Zion’s landscape from above offers a perspective that’s both awe-inspiring and humbling.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

The majority of reviews are glowing about the vistas and the professionalism of the crew. For example, one traveler recalled that “the pilot was so great” and appreciated sharing this moment with family. Others describe the views as “breath-taking,” emphasizing how seeing Zion from above reveals details impossible to appreciate from land.

A common phrase among reviewers is that the pilot’s commentary made the trip more meaningful—describing geological features and park history. Several mention that this experience is “a fantastic way to see Zion” without walking or waiting in lines, particularly during busy seasons.

Of course, not everyone’s experience was perfect. Some reviews note that the nature of helicopter tours means you’re limited to perimeter views and can’t fly directly over Zion’s park. Also, if the helicopter isn’t full, you might be assigned a different group or a shorter, modified tour—something to keep in mind when booking.

Cost-wise, at $299 per person, it’s not cheap, but considering the exclusive vantage point and the short duration, many find it offers good value—particularly for those seeking a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime view.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Booking ahead is recommended—most travelers book about 28 days in advance. The tour departs from Zion Helicopters’ private heliport, a short drive from Springdale and the park entrance.

The tour requires a minimum of five passengers to operate, so it may be necessary to wait for enough bookings, or you might be grouped with others. Passengers are limited to 250 lbs each; larger travelers will need to purchase an additional seat, payable on the day of the tour.

The experience lasts approximately 30 minutes, with actual flight time being about that length. The entire process from check-in to disembarkation generally takes longer, allowing for safety briefings and some choice of start times. Many travelers appreciate the flexibility of numerous departure options.

Weather can influence the schedule—poor conditions will result in rescheduling or full refunds. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled tour, which is helpful if weather looks suspect.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This helicopter ride is ideal for those who value scenic beauty but don’t want the physical exertion of hiking. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager for a panoramic snapshot of Zion’s highlights. If you’re short on time but still want a taste of Zion’s grandeur, this is a smart choice.

It’s also well-suited for visitors who appreciate expert narration and want to learn a bit about Zion’s geology and landscape from an experienced pilot. However, if you’re looking for more in-depth land-based experiences or long hikes, this tour should be viewed as a spectacular complement rather than a replacement.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience

In the end, the 55 Mile Zion helicopter tour offers a unique, visually stunning perspective on one of the United States’ most beautiful parks. It’s a quick, comfortable way to see Zion’s towering cliffs, sprawling canyons, and rugged wilderness from above, providing a fresh appreciation for the park’s scale and beauty.

It’s best suited for travelers who want an unforgettable, photo-worthy experience without the physical effort. Families, first-time visitors, or anyone pressed for time will find this a worthwhile splurge—especially if they’re eager to see Zion’s highlights from a perspective few get to enjoy.

While it isn’t a substitute for hiking or exploring Zion’s trails, it’s a memorable addition that can deepen your understanding of the landscape and leave you with incredible vistas etched into your memory. Just be sure to book ahead and keep an eye on the weather—this is a weather-dependent activity, and the views are worth the wait.

FAQ

How long is the helicopter tour?
The flight itself lasts approximately 30 minutes, providing ample time to enjoy the scenery from above.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Zion Helicopters’ private heliport, located at 3050 East UT-9, Virgin, UT, just minutes from Zion’s main entrance.

What is the maximum group size?
The helicopter accommodates up to six travelers, making for a relatively intimate experience.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, passengers must weigh less than 250 lbs. If over, an additional seat must be purchased on the day of the tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if the weather is bad?
Poor weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling. The tour is weather-dependent, so check the forecast.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable in a helicopter environment and able to sit for 30 minutes.

Can I book last minute?
Most bookings are made about 28 days in advance, but check availability closer to your travel dates.

Is tipping included?
No, gratuities are not included but are appreciated for excellent service.

This Zion helicopter tour offers a remarkable way to see the park’s stunning landscapes from a fresh angle—perfect for making your visit truly unforgettable.