Arizona Desert Helicopter Tour Including Tower Butte Landing

Arizona Desert Helicopter Tour Including Tower Butte Landing: An In-Depth Review

Thinking about soaring above one of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest? This helicopter tour in Page, Arizona, offers a thrilling chance to see Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend, and Glen Canyon from a perspective few get to enjoy. It’s a compact, well-reviewed experience that combines scenic flight with a landing on the stunning Tower Butte, providing a blend of adventure and picture-perfect views.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the small group size, which ensures a more personal experience, and the opportunity to land on Tower Butte, giving you a chance to step onto a dramatic rock formation and take in the vista from above. That said, one consideration is the tour’s duration—at just about 40 minutes, it’s a short window, but the impact is significant.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love outdoor adventure, photography, and unique perspectives on natural wonders. It’s also great for those who want to skip the crowds and get an exclusive view of this rugged landscape.

Key Points

• Breathtaking aerial views of Horseshoe Bend, Lake Powell, and Glen Canyon.
• Landing on Tower Butte offers a rare opportunity for close-up photos and panoramic views.
• Small group size enhances intimacy and personalized commentary.
• Flexible departure times in the morning or afternoon suit different schedules.
• High safety and professionalism demonstrated by experienced pilots.
• Great value for the price when considering the unique experience of a helicopter flight and landing.

An Overview of the Experience

This helicopter tour provides an around 40-minute flight, during which you’ll witness some of the Southwest’s most stunning natural formations. The experience begins at a small, friendly airport in Page, Arizona, a town well known as a gateway to nearby attractions. You’ll fly over Lake Powell, a sprawling reservoir on the Colorado River, which is as much a part of the scenery as the land itself.

As you ascend, your pilot will guide you over Glen Canyon, revealing its layered sedimentary rock formations and vibrant colors that change with the light. The flight then continues over Horseshoe Bend, a world-famous meander of the Colorado River that forms a dramatic horseshoe-shaped curve—perfect for photographs.

The Landing on Tower Butte

The highlight for many travelers is the landing on Tower Butte, a striking monolithic formation that juts out of the surrounding landscape. From its summit, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Glen Canyon Recreation Area and the surrounding desert. It’s a rare chance to step onto a natural “skyscraper” of stone and take in the sweeping vistas that stretch for miles.

Guests have raved about this part of the tour—”The decollage from Tower Butte is extraordinary,” one reviewer notes, highlighting the thrill of getting out of the helicopter and exploring the rugged terrain firsthand. Photos from the butte are often described as “amazing” and “photo-worthy.”

What Makes the Flight Special?

Flying over Antelope Canyon is a key feature, giving travelers an aerial view of this famous slot canyon without the need to hike or book a separate tour. You’ll also see Vermillion Cliffs, Kaiparowitz Plateau, and other geological marvels. The small group size—a maximum of six travelers—means you’re less likely to feel rushed or overlooked, and you get more tailored commentary from the pilot.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour kicks off at the airport, where you’ll meet your pilot and fellow travelers. After a safety briefing, the chopper lifts off, giving you an instant sense of adventure. The initial flight over Lake Powell offers a stunning view of the reservoir’s vivid blue waters against the rugged terrain.

Next, you’ll glide over Glen Canyon, observing the layers of sedimentary rock carved by water and wind over millions of years. The pilot will point out notable features, turning what could be a simple aerial view into an engaging lesson about the landscape.

Horseshoe Bend is next—this sweeping bend of the Colorado River is breathtaking from above, and many travelers find it even more impressive when viewed from the sky. You’ll have ample time to appreciate the scale and beauty of the formation.

The flight then circles toward Tower Butte. Once you land, you can step out to explore the top of the butte, soak in the panoramic vistas, and snap photos of the vibrant landscape below. The experience of being on top of this isolated formation, surrounded by desert and canyon, is a highlight many reviews mention as unforgettable.

Flight Details & Group Size

The tour lasts approximately 40 minutes, giving enough time to see the key sights without feeling rushed. The small group size (up to 6 persons) ensures a more relaxed experience, with personalized attention from the pilot. This intimate setting often leads to more detailed explanations and better photo opportunities.

Practical Considerations

The price of $299 per person is reasonable when you consider the uniqueness of the experience—flying over major landmarks and landing on a remote butte. The tour operates in either the morning or afternoon, allowing you to choose based on weather and lighting conditions. Morning flights tend to offer better lighting for photographs and a quieter atmosphere, but both times are popular.

Note that all passengers 18+ need government-issued photo ID, and those over 300 lbs will need to purchase an additional seat, a standard safety requirement in small aircraft. Transportation to the airport isn’t included, so expect to arrange your own ride.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Reviewers consistently mention the knowledgeable pilots and friendly staff. “Our pilot Jared was friendly and highlighted the different areas we flew over,” says one reviewer, emphasizing the informative aspect of the tour. Many mention the stunning views and the value for money—”It was a wonderful way to see the water,” notes one guest. Several repeat the sentiment that the landing on Tower Butte was the real highlight—a rare opportunity to step onto a geological marvel and see the landscape from a unique vantage point.

A few reviews mention rebooking options—“The staff offered us a rebooking for a better time because of the hot weather,” which shows flexibility and concern for passenger comfort. Only one reviewer expressed disappointment over a canceled trip with short notice, underscoring that weather can affect scheduling but that safety always comes first.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a short but impactful adventure, this helicopter trip offers a high-value experience. It’s perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and those seeking a memorable bird’s-eye view of some of Arizona’s most famous sights. The landing on Tower Butte adds a special touch that sets it apart from many other aerial tours.

Those who value small groups and knowledgeable pilots will find this tour particularly satisfying. It’s a fantastic way to see the iconic geology of Lake Powell and Horseshoe Bend without the physical exertion of hikes or long boat rides. The price reflects the specialized experience, and with reviews praising the stunning views and friendly service, it’s clear many travelers find it worth every penny.

However, if you’re sensitive to shorter tours or weather-dependent activities, keep in mind that the experience is about 40 minutes long, and weather could impact scheduling. Still, for a once-in-a-lifetime perspective on this breathtaking landscape, this helicopter tour delivers.

FAQs

How long is the helicopter tour?
The flight lasts approximately 40 minutes, including the time spent flying over key landmarks and the landing on Tower Butte.

What sites will I see during the tour?
You’ll see Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend, Glen Canyon, the Kaiparowitz Plateau, and Vermillion Cliffs from the air. The tour also includes a landing on Tower Butte.

Can I choose what time to depart?
Yes, you can select either a morning or afternoon departure, depending on your schedule and weather preferences.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but all passengers 18+ must present government-issued photo ID. Some weight restrictions apply.

What if I weigh more than 300 lbs?
Passengers over 300 lbs will be required to purchase an extra seat, paid directly to the operator on the day of the tour.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 6 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and comfortable experience.

Is transportation to the airport included?
No, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the starting point at 238 10th St, Page, AZ.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 3 days before the tour will not be refunded, and weather-related cancellations are fully refundable or can be rebooked.

Are there any safety considerations?
Safety is a priority. The tour is operated by professionals, and the aircraft’s weight and balance are carefully managed. If weather conditions are poor, the flight may be canceled for safety reasons.

This helicopter tour in Page, Arizona, offers a rare and exhilarating way to appreciate the grandeur of this desert landscape. Whether you’re seeking jaw-dropping photo ops or just want to see these famous landmarks from a fresh angle, it’s a solid choice. Approach it with an open mind, a camera ready, and a sense of adventure—you won’t be disappointed.