We Rank The 3 Best Helicopter Flights & Tours In Duluth

Duluth offers a spectacular backdrop for helicopter flights, thanks to its dramatic shoreline along Lake Superior, iconic landmarks like the Aerial Lift Bridge, and rugged North Shore scenery. Flying high over Duluth lets you see the city from a fresh perspective, revealing its unique blend of industrial charm and natural beauty. From short introductory tours ideal for first-timers to longer adventures that take you over waterfalls and state parks, there’s a helicopter experience suited to every interest. These tours are a fantastic way to capture memorable views of Duluth’s waterfront, historic sites, and wilderness areas.

What makes Duluth especially appealing for helicopter tours is the variety of scenery within a manageable distance. You can hover over the Aerial Lift Bridge, cruise along the North Shore, or explore the waterways and waterfalls of Jay Cooke State Park—all from the comfort of a helicopter. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to see Duluth from above, these flights deliver a memorable perspective that’s hard to match with ground-bound sightseeing.

Quick Overview

Our list features three top helicopter tours, each offering a different experience based on distance, duration, and sights. The 15-Mile Aerial Helicopter Tour is perfect for a quick introduction, offering 7-9 minutes of scenic views over Duluth and Lake Superior. The 30-Mile North Shore Helicopter Tour expands your perspective with an 18-22 minute flight along the North Shore, highlighting landmarks like the Glensheen Mansion and Hawks Ridge. For those seeking a truly immersive experience, the 60-Mile Ultimate Helicopter Tour offers 40-45 minutes of private sightseeing, including waterfalls, dams, and the Saint Louis River.

Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour, helping you decide which is best suited for your interests and schedule.

1. 15-Mile Aerial Helicopter Tour over Duluth and Superior

At number 1 on our list, the 15-Mile Aerial Helicopter Tour offers a quick but comprehensive view of Duluth’s most iconic sights. This roughly 7 to 9-minute flight packs a punch, providing unobstructed views of Enger Tower, the Aerial Lift Bridge, and downtown Duluth from above. The tour departs throughout the day, making it flexible for most schedules, and includes live commentary through headsets, so you’ll learn about the landmarks as you fly.

What makes this tour stand out is its accessibility and the fact that it’s perfect for first-timers or those with limited time. Passengers hover over Lake Superior, catching glimpses of the shoreline and cityscape. Reviewers consistently praise the pilot’s informative narration and the feeling of soaring over familiar sights from a perspective most never get. The flight is short but packed with scenery, making it excellent for family outings or a quick romantic adventure.

Bottom Line: If you want a memorable overview of Duluth’s highlights without a big time commitment, this short helicopter flight offers excellent value and stunning views.

2. 30-Mile North Shore Helicopter Tour

Sitting at the middle of our list, the 30-Mile North Shore Helicopter Tour gives you a longer, more detailed experience. Lasting about 18 to 22 minutes, this small-group tour takes you along the north shore of Lake Superior, offering spectacular views of the Glensheen Mansion, Hawks Ridge, Lester River, and the Port Terminal. You’ll enjoy unobstructed sights of the lake, the city, and rugged shoreline from a comfortable window seat, with noise-canceling headsets enhancing your experience.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on both Duluth and the lush, scenic areas further north. The small group size—just three passengers—means more personalized attention and fewer distractions. During the flight, you’ll fly over Park Point, the Hartley Nature Center, and take in the sweeping views of Lake Superior and the North Shore forested hills. Reviewers note the importance of tying long hair back and bringing a jacket for temperature changes, but overall, the experience is praised for its clarity and scenic variety.

Bottom Line: For travelers who want a more detailed, intimate aerial tour that covers both city and shoreline landmarks, this tour offers a great combination of scenery and comfort.

3. 60-Mile Ultimate Helicopter Tour over Duluth and Lake Superior’s North Shore

At the top end of our list, the 60-Mile Ultimate Helicopter Tour is the ultimate way to explore Duluth and its surroundings in depth. Lasting 40 to 45 minutes, this private flight offers incredible views of Jay Cooke State Park waterfalls, the Saint Louis River, Spirit Mountain, and the Port of Duluth. You’ll soar over dams, reservoirs, and lush forests, gaining a comprehensive perspective of the area’s natural features.

This tour is tailored for those who want to see as much as possible in one flight. The pilot shares insights about waterfalls, dams, and the region’s geography, making it both an adventure and an educational experience. Guests mention the pilot “Geo,” who’s fun and informative, and highlight the sense of exclusivity in a private helicopter. The price reflects the extended duration and personalized service, but it’s a worthwhile investment for keen scenery lovers or travelers celebrating special occasions.

Bottom Line: If you’re after a comprehensive, private experience that covers waterfalls, dams, and rugged shoreline views, this tour offers unmatched scope and comfort.

How to Choose Your Helicopter Experience in Duluth

Deciding among these options depends on your time, budget, and what you want to see. For a quick taste of Duluth’s skyline, the 15-Mile Tour is perfect. If you want to explore both Duluth and the North Shore in a bit more detail, the 30-Mile Tour strikes a good balance. For those seeking a full, private adventure with longer flight time and diverse scenery, the 60-Mile Tour is the top choice.

Consider your physical comfort—if you’re sensitive to wind or cold, the longer tours provide more space and comfort, but they come at a higher price. Booking early is advised, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred time slot and helicopter type.

Final Thoughts

Duluth offers a range of helicopter tours that deliver stunning aerial views—whether it’s a quick overview or an extensive private flight. For those on a tight schedule, the 15-mile ride provides an excellent introduction, while the 30-mile strikes a good middle ground for more scenery and comfort. If you’re after the ultimate experience with a private helicopter encompassing waterfalls, dams, and lakes, the 60-mile tour is hard to beat.

Whether you’re celebrating a special moment, seeking a new perspective, or simply on a quest for the best aerial views of Lake Superior, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these unforgettable experiences. Each of these tours brings its own flavor of adventure—so pick the one that matches your interests, and get ready for a memorable flight over Duluth.