Zion National Park, Canaan Cliffs: Extended Helicopter Tour

If you’re craving a new perspective on Zion National Park’s stunning landscapes, an extended helicopter tour might just be the adventure you need. This 55-minute flight offers a sweeping aerial view of some of Utah’s most iconic rock formations, with an extra bonus — a rare loop through the Canaan Mountain Wilderness. While it’s not the cheapest way to see Zion, the experience promises unforgettable vistas and a bit of adrenaline, perfect for those who want to see Zion from above in style.

What really catches our eye is the chance to fly for approximately 100 miles over Zion’s dramatic terrain, combined with the opportunity to learn about the geology and history from experienced pilots. However, it’s worth noting that the flight does have certain weight restrictions (over 250 lbs, passengers need to purchase an extra seat), and it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues. This tour is ideal for adventure lovers, photographers, or anyone looking to add a splash of thrill to their Zion trip.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Experience panoramic sights of Zion’s famous rock formations and the Canaan Mountain Wilderness.
• Expert Guides: Pilots like Jordan and Oliver bring impressive knowledge, sharing insights into the geology and history of the landscape.
• Extra Loop: The extended flight through Canaan Mountain Wilderness offers a unique perspective rarely seen from the ground.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (max six participants) mean more personalized attention and better photo opportunities.
• Value for Price: At $499 per person, it’s a premium experience, but many find the views and thrill worth the cost.
• Safety & Comfort: Preflight safety briefing and waivers included, with bottled water and optional butte landing for added excitement.

An In-Depth Look at the Zion Helicopter Experience

Booking and Availability

This tour is priced at $499 per person for a 55-minute aerial adventure. The flight’s duration can vary slightly depending on weather, wind, and passenger weight, but you can expect nearly an hour of flying time over Zion’s spectacular scenery. Tours are scheduled at different times of the day—check availability to see specific start times that suit your plans. You’ll want to arrive 30 minutes early to check in, get your safety briefing, and have time to settle before takeoff.

The Departure Site

Flights depart from a private heliport, designed specifically for this experience. The process is straightforward, with a quick check-in and safety briefing. It’s friendly and professional, with staff eager to ensure everyone feels prepared for the flight. Bring your camera — the views are jaw-dropping, and you’ll want to capture the moments from above.

The Flight Itinerary

The core of this experience is the aerial tour of Zion, which takes you over iconic formations like Angels Landing, the Zion Canyon, and the Red Butte Mountain Range. The highlight is the additional loop through Canaan Mountain Wilderness, a less-visited area that reveals rugged, less-touched landscapes. This extra segment offers a fresh view of Zion’s grandeur, coupled with the thrill of flying through narrow canyons and over rugged peaks.

What You’ll See

Expect to soar over dark red rock fingers of Zion’s Kolob Canyons, appreciating the intricate layering and natural artistry. The Red Butte Mountain Range also features prominently, providing a vibrant contrast of colors from the air. As one reviewer noted, the weather and afternoon light can make a big difference in how spectacular the scenery appears — clear, sunny days will give you the brightest, most vivid views.

The Pilot and Commentary

Pilots like Jordan and Oliver aren’t just skilled at flying — they’re knowledgeable guides. They share insights into the geology of Zion and the history behind its formations. Sarah, one reviewer, mentioned that their pilot Jordan played a killer playlist and shared stories along the way, which added a fun, relaxed vibe to the adventure. The crew is also happy to take photos during the flight, making sure you have memories to look back on.

The Optional Butte Landing

One of the optional perks is a 30-minute landing on a butte, which many find to be a highlight — a real “pinch-me” moment to step out into the wilderness and take in the views from ground level before flying back. This adds a bit of adventure and a different perspective, perfect for photography or just soaking in the landscape.

The Group Size and Overall Atmosphere

With limited to six participants, the tour offers an intimate experience. Smaller groups mean less noise, more personalized commentary, and better chances for photos. It’s evident from reviews that the guided experience and personalized attention are appreciated, especially when pilots like Oliver and Henry go above and beyond rebooking flights after weather cancellations.

Comfort and Practicalities

The safety briefing is quick but thorough, covering waivers and weight considerations. Passengers are asked to be weighed at check-in, and those over 250 lbs (112 kg) are required to purchase an extra seat for safety and comfort. The activity isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, so plan accordingly. Remember to bring your passport or ID and your camera — you’ll want to document this once-in-a-lifetime view.

What Makes This Tour Special?

This helicopter tour stands out because of the combination of comprehensive views of Zion and the additional loop through Canaan Mountain Wilderness, an area less accessible by foot. The experience isn’t just about the views — it’s about the thrill of flying over some of the most striking landscapes in the world, paired with expert commentary that makes the scenery even more meaningful.

We loved the way the pilots shared details about Zion’s geology, making the landscape come alive from above. Sarah’s review highlighted the perfect weather, the gorgeous afternoon light, and the thorough storytelling by Jordan, which made the experience more personal and memorable.

The price might seem high for some, but when you consider the 100-mile flight, the personalized service, and the rarity of this perspective, many travelers find it offers excellent value. For photography enthusiasts or those celebrating a special occasion—like Sarah’s husband’s 65th birthday—this tour can be a true highlight.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This helicopter tour is ideal for adventure seekers, photographers, and nature lovers eager to see Zion from a new angle. It’s perfect for those celebrating a milestone or looking to add an extraordinary adventure to their Zion itinerary. However, it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those who are significantly over the weight limit, so plan accordingly.

If you’re someone who values expert guides and breathtaking views, this tour will likely be one of the most memorable parts of your Zion visit. It’s a splurge, for sure, but one that many feel is justified by the unparalleled scenery and the personalized experience offered.

Final Thoughts

The Zion National Park, Canaan Cliffs: Extended Helicopter Tour is a high-value, visually stunning experience that offers a rare chance to see Zion from above. The combination of expert pilots, small group intimacy, and the added Canaan Mountain Wilderness loop makes it stand out from more standard aerial tours.

While it’s a premium experience with a corresponding price tag, the unique perspective on Zion’s iconic formations and the thrill of flying make it worthwhile for those looking to elevate their adventure — quite literally. If you’re ready to take to the skies and see Zion in a way few others do, this helicopter tour deserves your consideration.

FAQ

How long is the helicopter tour?
The official duration is 55 minutes, but actual flying time may vary slightly due to weather and conditions.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the helicopter flight, safety briefing, waivers, bottled water, and possibly a 30-minute butte landing if you select that option. A heliport facility charge is also included.

How far do I fly during the tour?
You will fly approximately 100 miles, covering Zion National Park and the extra loop through Canaan Mountain Wilderness.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, passengers over 250 lbs (113 kg) need to purchase an additional seat. The total group weight for private tours must not exceed 1200 lbs.

Can I bring a camera?
Absolutely. Bring your camera to capture the stunning vistas from above.

Is this activity suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments.

What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable clothing and bring sunglasses and a camera. Arrive 30 minutes early for check-in and safety briefing.

Is there a minimum number of participants required?
Yes, the tour needs at least 5 participants unless booked as a private tour, which has no minimum.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In summary, this helicopter tour offers a fantastic way to see Zion’s spectacular landscapes from a perspective few get to enjoy. It’s perfect for those wanting an unforgettable experience, especially if you love photography, geology, or just the thrill of flying. The expert guides, stunning vistas, and exclusive loop through Canaan Mountain make it a memorable addition to any Zion trip.