Great Salt Lake Flying Tour

Imagine soaring over one of Utah’s most distinctive landmarks—the Great Salt Lake—with the wind in your hair and breathtaking vistas unfolding beneath you. That’s exactly what this Great Salt Lake Flying Tour offers. While we haven’t personally taken this flight, the numerous glowing reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a genuinely memorable way to see this vast, ever-changing landscape.

What we love most is the unmatched perspective on the lake’s sheer scale and the opportunity to observe local wildlife from a vantage point that ground visits simply can’t match. Plus, the small group private format means a personalized experience, far from crowded bus tours.

A potential consideration is the price point of $289 per person, which might seem steep for a 40-minute flight, but given the exclusivity and quality of the views, many travelers find it well worth the cost. This tour is ideal for those craving an adventure-packed snapshot of Utah’s top natural attractions, especially if aerial views and wildlife spotting appeal to you.

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views of the Great Salt Lake and surrounding mountains
• Wildlife sightings including elk, antelope, buffalo, deer, coyote, and eagles
• Short, engaging tour lasting about 40 minutes, perfect for a quick but immersive experience
• Private group experience for personalized attention and safety
• Affordable for what it offers — a unique perspective in a compact, well-curated flight
• Highly rated (5.0/5 from 32 reviews), with 97% recommending it

What to Expect on the Great Salt Lake Flying Tour

A Unique Perspective on Utah’s Iconic Landscape

The tour begins at the Bird’s Eye View location in West Jordan, where you’ll meet your pilot, Neil. From the moment you arrive, you’ll appreciate the emphasis on safety and personalized service — no crowded aircraft here. After a quick safety briefing, you’ll board a small plane, leaving the ground behind and heading straight into a visual feast.

The flight is designed to maximize the experience: half the time up high, offering expansive, panoramic views, and the other half “low and slow,” giving you that feeling of being in a flying car. It’s a clever way to balance the awe of vast landscapes with intimate wildlife encounters.

Overflying the Great Salt Lake

Your first glimpse will be of the lake itself, which is astonishingly large—an expansive saltwater body that has been shaping the region since the Bonneville flood over 14,500 years ago. From the air, you’ll see how the lake’s size and salinity create a surreal landscape, punctuated by salt flats, islands, and shimmering waters.

Your pilot, Neil, is praised for his enthusiasm and knowledge, often pointing out the lake’s unique architecture and explaining its formation. One reviewer noted, “Neil was very enthusiastic and made our flight a lot of fun,” emphasizing how approachable and informed the pilot is.

Wildlife and Landmarks

Seeing wildlife from the air is a major highlight. Travelers frequently spot elk, antelope, buffalo, deer, coyote, and even eagles from the cockpit. Many reviews mention how close you get to animals that are usually only seen on the ground, providing a new appreciation for the local ecosystem.

Neil often overflies Antelope Island, giving you a close enough view to appreciate its distinctive shape and wildlife that populates it. One traveler mentioned, “He let my boyfriend take over the controls for a little,” which highlights the interactive aspect that adds to the fun and memorable nature of the tour.

The Mountains and the Wildlife

The flight also takes you over the Oquirrh Mountains, where spotting a herd of elk can be quite the thrill. The experience of gliding over these natural features, with commentary on their history and ecological significance, makes the flight educational as well as visually stunning.

Special Features: “Low and Slow” Flight

The “low and slow” part of the flight is what really sets this tour apart. Imagine feeling the thrill of conquering the skies in a flying car, close enough to the landscape that you can see individual animals and even the subtle textures of salt flats and salt crystals. It’s an experience many describe as going beyond just sightseeing — it’s a personal adventure.

Practical Details and Considerations

Duration and Booking

The tour lasts approximately 40 minutes, which is a perfect length for a quick yet thorough overview of the area. Many travelers book about 17 days in advance, indicating good planning is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Price and Value

At $289 per person, this experience falls into a higher price bracket, but the value is reflected in the exclusivity and quality of the experience. This is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, creating a personalized and flexible experience.

Accessibility and Logistics

The meeting point is at Bird’s Eye View in West Jordan, easily accessible and close to public transportation options. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with the provider confirming that service animals are permitted and most participants can join.

Weather and Cancellations

Since the experience relies on good weather, it’s wise to keep an eye on the forecast. If weather conditions are poor, Neil offers rescheduling or full refunds. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, offering some peace of mind.

What the Reviews Say

The praise for this tour is consistent. One reviewer shared, “Neil was very enthusiastic and made our flight a lot of fun,” highlighting the pilot’s engaging style. Another said, “We saw more of Antelope Island in 30 min from the air than I did when I spent a day there,” illustrating the efficiency of the aerial perspective.

Many travelers appreciated the safety, trustworthiness, and fun Neil provides. Comments like “Neil even let my boyfriend take over the controls,” and “Neil was a wonderful pilot and very informative,” demonstrate both the professionalism and personal touch that makes this tour special.

The views are described as “beautiful” and “incredible,” with several noting that it was a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience. The experience’s intimate size and engaging commentary make it stand out from larger, more generic sightseeing tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a nature lover, wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique perspective on Utah’s natural beauty, this flight will likely impress. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy adventure with a side of education or want a photo-friendly experience.

It’s also perfect if you’re looking for something small-scale and personalized, away from the crowds. The friendly pilot, Neil, ensures that safety and comfort are prioritized, making it a good fit for solo travelers, couples, or small groups.

The Sum Up: Is This the Right Tour for You?

This Great Salt Lake Flying Tour offers a rare chance to see one of Utah’s most iconic landscapes from a perspective few get to experience. With its stunning views, wildlife sightings, and personalized approach, it stands out as a memorable adventure for travelers who value authentic, high-quality experiences.

While the price may be higher than some ground tours, it reflects the exclusive nature and the intimate scale of the activity. If you’re after a brief but breathtaking flyover, combined with educational tidbits and wildlife encounters, this tour is a compelling choice.

It’s best suited for those who appreciate adventure, nature, and a touch of thrill. If flying in a small aircraft over salt flats and wildlife sounds appealing, you’ll find this tour delivers far more than just a quick flight — it provides a vivid memory of Utah’s remarkable landscape.

FAQ

How long is the Great Salt Lake Flying Tour?
The flight lasts about 40 minutes, offering a concise but comprehensive aerial view of the lake and surrounding features.

What is the cost of the tour?
It’s priced at $289 per person, which many travelers see as good value for a private, personalized experience with impressive vistas.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about 17 days ahead, so planning ahead is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Is the tour suitable for most travelers?
Most participants can join, and the experience is tailored to be accessible. Service animals are allowed, and the meeting point is near public transportation.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Since the tour depends on good weather, Neil offers rescheduling options or full refunds if cancellations are necessary due to poor weather conditions.

Can I take photos during the flight?
Absolutely. The views are spectacular, and many reviews mention how great the photographic opportunities are, especially during the “low and slow” portion.

This flying tour of the Great Salt Lake promises a compact, exciting, and visually stunning experience — perfect for those wanting to see as much as possible in a short time, with an expert pilot guiding the way.