Backcountry Beer Tasting Heli-Tour & Landing (Depart SKY Hangar)

Travelers seeking a blend of stunning scenery, exclusive access, and craft beer might find this Backcountry Beer Tasting Heli-Tour in Vancouver quite compelling. The idea of soaring over rugged peaks and lush forests before landing in a remote mountain spot for a craft beer tasting is certainly not your average outing. This experience is as much about the thrill of flight and the beauty of the Canadian wilderness as it is about enjoying a curated beer experience in the wild.

What we love most about this tour is the scenic helicopter flight—which promises spectacular views that are hard to match—and the personalized beer tasting curated by Twin Sails Brewery, adding a local craft touch to the adventure. The remote landings provide a sense of exclusivity and untouched nature, making it perfect for those craving an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience.

One potential drawback is the minimum booking requirement—single travelers need to book at least two seats, which might mean waiting to be paired with others or possibly canceling if you’re flying solo. Also, with a price of $382.58 per person, it’s a premium experience, so it’s best suited for those ready to spend on a memorable, one-of-a-kind outing. If you’re after a luxury adventure that combines breathtaking landscapes, expert guides, and craft beer, this tour could be just right.

This experience will appeal most to adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and craft beer fans who want to add a splash of excitement to their Vancouver trip. It’s also a good option for celebrating special occasions with a flair that’s both exhilarating and laid-back.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: The flight offers a 30-minute scenic tour over forests, peaks, and lakes in the Coast Mountains.
• Exclusive Landings: You’ll land in a remote mountain spot, enjoying around 30 minutes of peaceful nature.
• Craft Beer Tasting: Curated by Twin Sails Brewery, the beer complements the scenery and enhances the experience.
• Expert Guides: Multiple reviews emphasize the knowledgeable, friendly pilots and guides who enrich the experience with commentary and fun facts.
• Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 10 travelers, it maintains an intimate, personalized atmosphere.
• Price and Booking: While on the higher end at roughly $382, the value comes from the combination of scenery, exclusivity, and craft beer.

An Authentic Take on a Unique Vancouver Adventure

The Backcountry Beer Tasting Heli-Tour offers a chance to see the Canadian wilderness from a perspective few get—climbing into a helicopter and soaring over the Coast Mountains. The flight itself is approximately 30 minutes, which may seem short but packs in enough jaw-dropping vistas to make it worth every penny. As you hover above the treetops and alpine lakes, you’ll get a real sense of the scale and beauty of this remote landscape, something that’s often difficult to appreciate from the ground.

A highlight for many travelers is the remote landing in the mountains. The landing spots vary depending on the day, but the common thread is their stunning natural setting. Guests describe the landings as scenic and peaceful, providing a perfect backdrop for unwinding and taking photos. Reviewers often mention a sense of being in a private slice of nature, away from crowds and noise. One reviewer noted, “The place where we went was perfect, like in the movie Twilight,” underscoring just how cinematic the scenery can be.

Once on the ground, you get around 30 minutes to soak in the tranquility of the wilderness. Whether it’s sitting quietly, taking photos, or just listening to the sounds of nature, this pause provides a refreshing contrast to the high-energy flight. It’s a rare moment of serenity in the mountains.

The craft beer tasting completes the experience. Curated by Twin Sails Brewery, the selection is designed to match the majestic scenery. Many reviews highlight how the beers are thoughtfully curated, making for a fun and flavorful complement to the outdoor setting. Plus, non-alcoholic options are available for those who prefer or need them.

The guides and pilots earn high praise. Guests consistently describe them as knowledgeable, personable, and passionate about the region. One reviewer mentioned, “Kyle described various landmarks and history, making the flight not just beautiful but educational.” The personal touch from guides who love sharing stories and facts helps elevate the journey from just a scenic flight to a memorable storytelling experience.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

The tour begins at the SKY Hangar in Pitt Meadows, located about a 30-minute drive from Vancouver’s city center. After a brief safety briefing, you’ll board a helicopter for the 30-minute scenic flight. The route varies depending on the day, but you can anticipate views of the remote wilderness, including glacial lakes, rugged peaks, and lush forests.

The highlight of the flight is the landing in a remote mountain spot. The exact location shifts daily, which adds a sense of adventure—no two landings are quite the same. Each landing spot offers a unique perspective of the region’s natural beauty, and many travelers remark on how untouched and pristine these areas feel.

After exploring the landing site, you’ll enjoy a 30-minute tasting session of craft beers from Twin Sails Brewery. The tasting is curated to match the scenery, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the outdoors. You can expect to sample some of their best brews, designed to complement the mountain environment and add a fun, flavorful element to the adventure.

The tour wraps up with a return flight to the hangar, where you’ll leave with photos, memories, and perhaps a new appreciation for local craft beer. The whole experience lasts about an hour, though the actual flight time is roughly 30 minutes.

Authentic, Balanced Experience

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeability of the guides and pilots, especially for their ability to combine storytelling with safety. One reviewer called the guide Roger “a very friendly and cheerful companion” who made the experience both fun and informative.

The views are described as nothing short of spectacular. Several reviewers mention feeling like they’re in a movie scene, thanks to the stunning landscape. Even in rainy weather, guests report that the scenery remained beautiful, and the experience was still worthwhile.

Practical Considerations

The tour is priced at $382.58 per person, which may seem steep but is justified by the exclusivity, the scenic quality, and the craft beer component. It’s important to note that single passengers need to book at least two seats, which could mean waiting for a group or possibly canceling if flying alone. The tour operates with a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a comfortable, less crowded environment.

The tour is weather-dependent—poor weather could lead to cancellations, but you have the option for a full refund or rescheduling. This flexibility helps mitigate some risk, but travelers should keep an eye on the forecast.

For those who want to participate, participants must be 19 or older to consume alcohol in BC, but non-alcoholic beverages are available.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This helicopter adventure is ideal for adventure-seeking travelers who want more than just sightseeing. It’s perfect for nature lovers eager to see the rugged beauty of BC’s mountains from a fresh perspective, and craft beer enthusiasts who enjoy pairing local brews with extraordinary experiences. It also suits those celebrating special occasions—birthdays, anniversaries, or just a desire for a memorable day out—especially since it combines thrill, peace, and a touch of luxury.

It’s designed for small groups, so if you prefer intimate, personalized experiences and don’t mind paying a premium, this tour hits the mark. While not suitable for those on a tight budget, the value lies in the once-in-a-lifetime scenery, the expertise of the guides, and the unique opportunity to enjoy local craft beer in the wild.

FAQs

How long does the entire experience last?
The experience is about 1 hour total, with around 30 minutes of flight and 30 minutes for the landings and tasting.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the fuel surcharge, landing and facility fees, and the craft beer tasting. Non-alcoholic beverages are available upon request.

Can I participate if I’m a solo traveler?
Yes, but you need to book at least two seats. The operator will try to pair you with other passengers, or your booking could be canceled if you’re the only one.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, participants must be 19 or older to consume alcohol in BC, though non-alcoholic options are available.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for outdoor conditions in the mountains—layers are advisable, especially if the weather changes.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If cancelled due to poor weather, you can reschedule or receive a full refund.

Final Thoughts

For those ready to combine adventure, stunning scenery, and a taste of local craft beer, this helicopter tour offers an experience that’s both exhilarating and relaxing. The knowledgeable guides and spectacular views provide a sense of immersion that’s hard to find elsewhere. Whether celebrating a special day or simply seeking a unique story to tell, it’s a memorable way to see the wild side of Vancouver’s surroundings.

While it’s a spendier option, the combination of private landings, expert commentary, and a curated beer tasting justifies the price for many travelers. It’s best suited for those who want a luxury adventure with a authentic, natural twist—an experience that’s as much about the scenery as it is about the moment.

This tour isn’t for everyone—those seeking budget-friendly options or casual sightseeing might prefer simpler excursions. But for adventurers and craft beer fans craving a once-in-a-lifetime outing, this helicopter trip into the mountains could easily become a highlight of your Vancouver visit.