7 Outstanding Helicopter Flights & Tours In West Yellowstone

West Yellowstone offers some of the most impressive mountain scenery and geological wonders in the United States. While road trips and hiking give you a ground-level view, nothing beats soaring above the rugged landscape in a helicopter or small plane for a truly unforgettable perspective. With options ranging from scenic flights over the Continental Divide to in-depth tours of Yellowstone’s geological features, you’ll find something to match your curiosity and comfort level.

The area’s dramatic peaks, pristine lakes, and volcanic formations come alive from the air, revealing details often missed at ground level. Whether you’re after a quick 30-minute jaunt or a comprehensive hour-long adventure, these helicopter flights and small-plane tours showcase the natural beauty and geological marvels that make West Yellowstone a top destination for aerial sightseeing.

Quick Overview

This list includes a variety of aerial experiences, from 1-hour comprehensive trips to shorter 30-minute flights. Some tours combine multiple highlights, like the All-Inclusive Trifecta, which mixes parts of the Skyline, Continental Divide, and Rugged Mountain tours. Others focus on specific features, such as Yellowstone Skyline for stunning mountain vistas or Earthquake Lake to learn about seismic activity.

Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each top-rated tour, helping you match your interests and schedule with the right experience.

1. 1 Hour Aerial Tour All Included Trifecta Tour

This comprehensive flight is perfect if you want to see the best of West Yellowstone’s natural highlights in one go. Over approximately 60 minutes, your pilot will take you over West Yellowstone, Hebgen Lake, Earthquake Lake, and the Continental Divide mountains. It’s a blend of three popular tours—Skyline, Continental Divide, and Rugged Mountain—giving you a broad overview of the region’s geological and scenic features.

What makes the Trifecta Tour stand out is its versatility. It combines mountains, lakes, and fault lines into a single, seamless flight. The pilot’s expertise ensures you get a detailed look at landmarks like Earthquake Lake, formed by the 1959 earthquake, which is a fascinating sight from above. The tour is highly rated (5.0/5 from 3 reviews), and at $386.81 per person, it’s a solid investment for those seeking the full aerial experience.

This private, small-plane trip is ideal for travelers wanting a broad, immersive view of Yellowstone’s rugged landscape. It’s well-suited for photography enthusiasts and geology buffs alike. The only downside might be the price, but considering the scope and quality, it offers excellent value for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Bottom Line: If you want an all-encompassing flight that hits multiple highlights and doesn’t skimp on scenery, this is the tour for you.

2. West Yellowstone: 30 Minute Aerial Tour Yellowstone Siesmic

For those interested in Yellowstone’s seismic history and stunning landscapes, this 30-minute private flight in a Cessna 182 is a perfect choice. Starting from West Yellowstone Airport, your pilot will guide you over Hebgen Lake, Earthquake Lake, and the surrounding geography that tells the story of the 1959 earthquake. It’s a focused yet rich experience, especially for history and geology enthusiasts.

What sets this tour apart is its intimate scale—up to three adults can enjoy a private experience, allowing for personalized commentary. The pilot shares insights about the earthquake’s impact and the landscape’s features, making it both educational and awe-inspiring. Reviews are strong (4.8/5), praising the views and the opportunity to learn about earthquake history firsthand.

At only 30 minutes, this tour is a great quick hit for travelers with limited time or those wanting a more detailed look at Earthquake Lake, which is truly a striking sight from the air. The flight offers a clear view of Hebgen Lake and the seismic rupture zone, providing a memorable perspective that ground tours cannot match.

Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs and those seeking a quick, focused aerial adventure with educational value.

3. West Yellowstone:1 Hour Aerial Tour The Trifecta

If you’re after a comprehensive view of West Yellowstone and its surroundings, this one-hour flight is your best bet. Similar to the all-inclusive version, this tour combines aspects of the Skyline, Continental Divide, and Rugged Mountain tours, but in a single, extended flight. It’s the only small-plane tour company operating from West Yellowstone that offers such an in-depth experience.

The “Trifecta” immerses you in the region’s most dramatic landscapes—from the soaring peaks of the Continental Divide to the rugged, jagged mountains and serene lakes. The pilot, with their skill and knowledge, makes this tour a vivid, engaging experience. The reviews are favorable (4.8/5), and the price at $397 per person reflects the extensive scope of scenery covered.

This private tour is best suited for those wanting a fuller, layered understanding of the region’s geology and scenery. It’s ideal for photography, geology, and mountain lovers who want to see it all in one go without rushing.

Bottom Line: For travelers craving a deep dive into Yellowstone’s mountainous beauty, this tour offers the most comprehensive small-plane experience.

4. West Yellowstone: 45 Minute Aerial Tour Rugged Mountains

This 45-minute private tour showcases the spectacular rugged mountains that dominate West Yellowstone’s landscape. Flying in a Cessna 182, you’ll enjoy remarkable views of steep cliffs, jagged ridges, and high peaks that reach over 2 miles above sea level. It’s a fantastic choice if natural terrain is your focus.

While the tour emphasizes mountain scenery, it also offers a glimpse of the surrounding landscape, providing a more intimate connection with the natural landmarks. The tour is limited to three people, ensuring a quiet, personalized experience. At $332 per person, it provides excellent value considering the quality of views and the private setting.

The highlight is the opportunity to see terrain that very few people get close to, including the steep mountains that form the valley. It’s especially appealing to those interested in mountain geology and dramatic natural features.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want close-up views of rugged peaks and mountain terrain, with the flexibility of a private flight.

5. West Yellowstone: 30 Minute Aerial Tour Yellowstone Skyline

This shorter, 30-minute “Skyline” tour offers a bird’s-eye view of the towering mountains that define the Yellowstone Valley. Taking off from West Yellowstone, your pilot will guide you over the mountain faces, jagged cliffs, and dramatic ridges that create the iconic skyline.

While it doesn’t include detailed geological commentary, it’s an excellent option for visual lovers who want to see the scope of the mountain range in a brief window. The tour is priced at $257.44 per person, making it a more affordable way to experience Yellowstone’s grandeur from the air.

This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a quick, scenic overview rather than an in-depth exploration. It’s perfect for those with limited time or as a prelude to other Yellowstone activities, allowing you to appreciate the scale and beauty of the landscape.

Bottom Line: For a swift, stunning aerial introduction to Yellowstone’s mountain skyline, this tour delivers excellent views at a reasonable price.

6. West Yellowstone: 45 Minute Aerial Tour Continental Divide Highlights

This 45-minute flight focuses on the geographical importance of the Continental Divide, which splits water flowing into the Pacific and Atlantic basins. Starting from West Yellowstone, your pilot will take you over the top of the divide and across the Greater Yellowstone Area, highlighting the region’s key watersheds and mountain features.

While there are no reviews yet, the tour’s focus on the dividing line of North America’s waterways makes it particularly interesting for those curious about hydrology, geography, and the natural split of waters. The experience offers a unique perspective on how the landscape influences the flow of rivers like the Mississippi and those heading to the Pacific.

At $322 per person, it provides a geologically oriented experience that combines scenery with educational content. A good choice for travelers who want a more scientific angle on Yellowstone’s landscape.

Bottom Line: An excellent pick for geography buffs and those interested in understanding how water shapes this region.

7. West Yellowstone: 45 Minute Aerial Tour Over West Yellowstone’s Rugged Mountains

This flight focuses on the rugged mountain terrain surrounding West Yellowstone, reaching up to 2 miles above sea level. It offers a close look at jagged cliffs and steep slopes, with a focus on the natural terrain that forms the valley.

The tour is private, limited to three people, and priced at $322.13 per person. It provides a personalized experience with plenty of photo opportunities. The focus on the mountain landscapes makes this a great choice for those who want a detailed aerial view of the terrain that shapes the region’s character.

If you’re passionate about mountain scenery and want to feel the thrill of soaring near some of the highest peaks, this tour hits the mark.

Bottom Line: Ideal for mountain lovers wanting a focused, close-up view of West Yellowstone’s rugged peaks.

How to Choose the Right Helicopter or Small Plane Tour

When selecting a tour, consider your interests and schedule. If you want a full regional overview, the All-Inclusive Trifecta is unmatched. For history and seismic features, the Earthquake Lake tour offers a focused experience. Budget travelers might prefer the Yellowstone Skyline for a shorter, scenic flight.

Think about whether you value private, small-group experiences** or are comfortable with shared flights. Weather can also influence your choice—mid-summer clear days tend to be best for visibility and smooth flying.

Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, as these tours tend to fill quickly. Be sure to confirm the availability and specific starting points to match your itinerary.

Final Thoughts

West Yellowstone provides a fantastic range of aerial tours to suit different interests and schedules. For a comprehensive experience, the All-Inclusive Trifecta delivers the most diverse scenery. For those wanting a quick, impressive overview, the Yellowstone Skyline and Earthquake Lake tours are excellent choices.

Mountain lovers and geology buffs will appreciate the Rugged Mountain options, while history enthusiasts can indulge in the seismic tour. Whichever you choose, early booking is key to securing your spot and ensuring a memorable aerial adventure over one of America’s most striking landscapes.