Moab: Grand Helicopter Tour

If you’re considering a way to see some of Utah’s most stunning landscapes without hiking or driving all day, the Moab: Grand Helicopter Tour offers a spectacular alternative. This one-hour, private helicopter flight provides a bird’s-eye view of the region’s famous red rocks, towering arches, and rugged canyons. While we haven’t flown it ourselves, reviews and details paint a vivid picture of what this adventure is all about.

What immediately stands out about this tour is the personalized experience — only your party in the helicopter, with a knowledgeable pilot providing commentary. The second highlight is the incredible variety of sights you’ll see, from iconic arches to the winding Colorado River. A potential drawback? The price tag of $649 per person isn’t cheap, but for many, the unforgettable vistas and exclusive nature of the flight make it worth considering.

This tour will suit travelers who crave an authentic, immersive perspective of Moab’s landscapes — especially those who value comfort, expert insights, and a touch of adventure. It’s perfect for those celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to elevate their Utah trip with a memorable experience.

Key Points

• Exclusive private flight for your party ensures a personalized experience.
• Spectacular views of seven arches, canyons, and the Colorado River from the air.
• Expert narration from your pilot enhances understanding of the landscape.
• Convenient location at Canyonlands Field Airport with no parking fees.
• Duration of about 1 hour offers enough time for a comprehensive aerial overview.
• Limited group size (up to 3 participants) maximizes comfort and intimacy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Moab Helicopter Tour

Walking onto the tarmac at Canyonlands Field Airport, you’re met with anticipation. Check-in at the Redtail Air/Pinnacle Helicopters desk is straightforward, and after a quick safety briefing, you’re ushered to your helicopter. The flight lasts approximately one hour, which strikes a good balance — enough time to take in many sights without it feeling rushed.

Starting the Flight: Determining Your Viewpoints

As you lift off, the scenery begins to unfold. The pilot guides you over some of the most striking formations in the region. Your first impression might be the Determination Towers, tall spires that symbolize Utah’s rugged geology. From there, the flight takes you to the Gemini Bridges, two natural rock spans that are quite a sight from above.

The Canyonlands Panorama

Soon, you’ll arrive at the Deadhorse Point State Park, a viewpoint that offers sweeping vistas of layered cliffs and the Colorado River. Here, the pilot might point out Thelma and Louise Point, where the climactic movie scene was filmed — a real treat for film buffs or anyone interested in the area’s pop culture.

Into the Depths of Canyonlands

Next, the tour dives into the heart of Canyonlands National Park, flying over the Island in the Sky District. You’ll see the Colorado River winding through deep canyons, a truly mesmerizing sight. If weather permits, the pilot might even dip the helicopter below canyon walls, offering a perspective rarely seen from the ground.

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Unique Landmarks and Trails

The flight then ventures into the Behind the Rocks Wilderness, an area known for its dramatic sandstone formations. A highlight is the Castleton Tower, a famous sandstone spire that’s a favorite among climbers. The pilot may also fly over the Hell’s Revenge Jeep Trail, a rugged route renowned among off-road enthusiasts, teeming with jeeps and adventure-seekers.

The Return: Arch Views and Final Sights

As your aircraft heads back toward Moab, you’ll glimpse several remarkable arches like Corona Arch, Jeep Arch, and Uranium Arch. These formations are best appreciated from the air, where their grandeur is fully revealed.

The Experience: What Sets It Apart

The personalized, private nature of this tour is perhaps its most enticing feature. Unlike larger group helicopter rides, only your party shares the aircraft, allowing for more interaction with the pilot and a tailored experience. Many reviews praise the pilot’s deep knowledge of the area, adding layers of context and making the flight both educational and awe-inspiring.

The ** views are truly spectacular**. From the air, you get a sense of the scale and complexity of Utah’s red rock country — a perspective impossible from the ground. The flight offers a variety of scenic highlights: from towering formations and natural bridges to the winding river and rugged wilderness.

The clarity of narration helps to explain what you’re seeing, turning a visual spectacle into a richer understanding of the geology and history. Several reviewers mention how this extra layer of insight enhances the enjoyment. One noted, “Our pilot Michael was amazing! He was very interactive and extremely knowledgeable.”

Comfort and Logistics

The tour is about one hour long, a duration that lets you see many key sites without the fatigue of a longer flight. It departs usually in the morning, which is prime time for good lighting and fewer clouds.

The group size is limited to three participants, ensuring a more intimate experience. The check-in process is simple, and amenities like restrooms are available at the airport before takeoff. No parking fees add to the convenience.

Costs and Value

At $649 per person, this experience isn’t inexpensive. However, considering it’s a private flight, the scenery involved, and the expert narration, many travelers find it offers good value. The personalized nature means you’re not just a passenger, but part of a tailored adventure.

Considerations for Travelers

One of the few limitations is the weight restriction, with individual passengers unable to weigh more than 299 pounds. Also, weather can cause cancellations or rescheduling, so flexibility in your plans is advisable. For those uncomfortable with heights or flying, this may not be the ideal excursion.

Authentic Perspectives from Past Travelers

Many reviewers emphasize the quality of the pilot and the stunning views. One mentions, “John was a very good pilot and we highly recommend this helicopter tour,” showcasing the importance of skilled guides. Another raved about the magnificent perspective the helicopter provides, stating, “Seeing the natural wonders of rock from above is absolutely worth it.”

The visual scope of the tour seems to resonate most: “It was such a magnificent way to see Canyonlands,” and “Helicopter was the best way to see it,” are common sentiments.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This helicopter tour is ideal for travelers seeking a luxurious, personalized view of Utah’s iconic landscapes. It’s perfect for those celebrating special occasions, photography enthusiasts, or anyone who wants to see the most dramatic scenery without extensive hiking or driving. It’s a good choice for those comfortable with heights and looking for a once-in-a-lifetime perspective.

It’s not suited for travelers over 300 lbs or those with certain mobility restrictions, but for most, it offers an accessible, exhilarating experience.

The Sum Up

The Moab: Grand Helicopter Tour combines exclusivity, incredible scenery, and expert narration into a memorable adventure. It’s a perfect way to see some of Utah’s most famous natural landmarks from a vantage point that reveals their true scale and grandeur. While it comes at a premium, the intimate, guided experience makes it a worthwhile splurge for many travelers.

If you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime view of Moab’s stunning red rocks and arches, this aerial journey could be the highlight of your Utah trip. It offers a mix of comfort, awe-inspiring sights, and storytelling that’s hard to match — just be prepared for the price and the weight restrictions.

For those who value unique experiences, crave scenic beauty, and appreciate expert guides, this helicopter tour hits the mark with flying colors.

FAQ

Is transportation included to the airport?
No, the tour starts at Canyonlands Field Airport, and travelers are responsible for getting there. Parking is free, and the check-in process is straightforward.

How long is the helicopter tour?
The flight lasts approximately one hour — enough time to see many key sites without it feeling rushed.

Can I share the helicopter with others?
This is a private tour, limited to just your party, ensuring a more intimate experience and personalized narration.

What is the best time of day to fly?
Most flights are available in the morning, which tends to offer better lighting for scenery and fewer weather-related delays.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, individual passengers cannot weigh more than 299 pounds. The total combined weight of all passengers cannot exceed 600 pounds.

What sights will I see during the flight?
You can expect to fly over seven arches, see Deadhorse Point, the Gemini Bridges, and the Colorado River, along with formations like Castleton Tower and views of Hell’s Revenge Jeep Trail.

What should I bring or wear?
Bring layers suitable for the weather, sunglasses, and a camera. Restrooms are available at the airport before departure.

In essence, this helicopter tour delivers an authentic, breathtaking view of Moab’s natural treasures, guided by knowledgeable pilots in a private setting. It’s a splurge, yes, but one that promises an unforgettable perspective on Utah’s iconic landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby