35 Minute Mt Assiniboine & Glaciers Helicopter Tour

Experience the Canadian Rockies from the Sky: A Deep Dive Into the 35-Minute Mt Assiniboine & Glaciers Helicopter Tour

Imagine soaring above the towering peaks and shimmering glaciers of Alberta, Canada, with nothing between you and the rugged wilderness but the whir of a helicopter blade. This 35-minute helicopter tour offers just that—an airborne adventure that takes you close to some of the most iconic sights in the Canadian Rockies. For approximately 50 minutes in total, with 35 minutes of flight, you’ll be whisked from Canmore to gaze upon the famous Three Sisters Peaks, then onward to the majestic Mount Assiniboine, often called the “Matterhorn of the Canadian Rockies.” The experience is truly a feast for the eyes, with stunning vistas of glaciers and ice falls that make every second in the air worthwhile.

What we love about this tour is how it combines accessible flight time with extraordinary views. First, the chance to see Spray Lakes from above adds a scenic prelude and a different perspective on this well-loved natural feature. Then, the highlight—Mount Assiniboine itself, an imposing peak rising to 3,611 meters (11,870 feet)—offers a glimpse of wilderness at its most dramatic. The closeness to glaciers and ice falls is a rare privilege, giving you an intimate look at the icy forces shaping this landscape.

A key consideration is that this tour requires good weather, as helicopter flights are highly dependent on clear skies and stable conditions. Also, with a maximum group size of five travelers, it’s a more intimate experience—great for those who prefer personal space and a more private feel. The price of $332.77 per person might seem steep at first glance, but given the stunning views, unique access, and the effort it takes to reach these remote spots by air, many find it to be a worthwhile splurge. This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers with an appreciation for natural beauty who want to see the Rockies from a perspective few get to enjoy.

Key Points

• Unmatched Views: Offers close-up vistas of Mount Assiniboine, glaciers, and the surrounding peaks.
• Intimate Group Size: Limited to just 5 travelers, providing a more personalized experience.
• Scenic Highlights: Includes flying over Spray Lakes and the icy glaciers on Mount Assiniboine.
• Weather-dependent: Clear skies are essential for safety and optimal viewing.
• Duration & Value: About 50 minutes total, with a 35-minute flight, making it a compact but memorable adventure.
• Booking in Advance: Most travelers book around 161 days ahead, highlighting its popularity.

The Experience in Detail

Meeting and Starting Point

The adventure begins at 91 Bow Valley Trail in Canmore, a conveniently accessible location for many travelers exploring the Rockies. The meeting process is straightforward, with a mobile ticket allowing for flexible arrangements. The staff is known for being professional, and the confirmation is received at booking, so there’s no last-minute guesswork.

The Flight Itself: What You’ll See

Once aboard, you’ll take off and be immediately greeted by spectacular views. The first part of the flight circles around Mount Assiniboine, the tallest peak in the Southern Canadian Rockies. Its pyramidal shape is striking—often compared to the Matterhorn, and it’s a picture-perfect icon of Canadian wilderness. The glaciers and ice falls surrounding the mountain are visible from up close, offering a fascinating look at the icy terrain that feeds the glaciers below.

The Three Sisters and Spray Lakes

Before heading to Mount Assiniboine, the flight passes over Spray Lakes—a series of shimmering bodies of water nestled among forested slopes. From the air, these lakes appear as glossy, mirror-like surfaces framed by rugged terrain. It’s a wonderful chance to see the landscape from a fresh angle and appreciate the scale of these natural features.

Mount Assiniboine and the Glaciers

The star of the show is Mount Assiniboine itself—rising dramatically from the surrounding terrain. Its icy glaciers and hanging ice falls create a scene that seems almost sculpted from a fantasy. Passengers report being “amazed by the stunning views” and the up-close experience with glaciers that are usually hidden from the ground. The flight allows for a sense of scale and grandeur that photos simply can’t capture.

Return Route and Final Views

On the way back, you’ll revisit Spray Lakes from a different perspective, appreciating the landscape’s breadth and diversity. The flight is smooth, with ample time to take photos, soak in the scenery, and maybe even share a few excited whispers with your travel companions.

Practicalities and Size of the Group

Because the tour is limited to five travelers, the experience feels tailored and less crowded than larger group tours. This also means more opportunity for personalized attention from your pilot, who often shares insights about the landscape and the geography of the Rockies.

Weather and Rescheduling

The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are poor—cloudy, rainy, or windy—the flight will be canceled or rescheduled. The policy offers a full refund or alternative date, which provides peace of mind when planning your trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This helicopter tour is ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers who crave a bird’s-eye view of the Rockies’ most iconic peaks and glaciers. It’s especially suited for travelers who value intimate group sizes and are willing to pay a premium for a truly memorable experience. If you’re interested in photography, the views are spectacular and worth every penny. However, it’s best for those who are comfortable with helicopter travel and understand that good weather is essential for the best experience.

How Does It Compare Value-wise?

While $332.77 per person may seem high, the value lies in the access and exclusivity. The experience offers views that are impossible to see from the ground and the opportunity to get close to glaciers and ice falls without needing mountaineering skills. For many, the emotional impact of soaring above such majestic scenery justifies the cost, especially given the limited group size and the unique perspective provided.

Final Thoughts

Choosing to take this 35-minute helicopter tour over Mount Assiniboine and glaciers is about more than just seeing mountains—it’s about feeling like you’re part of an untouched wilderness. If you’re seeking a unique photo opportunity, a private, intimate experience, or simply want to see the Canadian Rockies from a breathtaking perspective, this tour delivers.

The scenery is stunning, the experience memorable, and the moments you’ll capture will stay with you long after you’ve returned to solid ground. It’s a perfect adventure for those who value authentic natural beauty and are prepared for an extraordinary journey through the skies.

FAQ

How long is the helicopter flight?
The flight itself lasts about 35 minutes, with the total experience spanning roughly 50 minutes from start to finish.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 91 Bow Valley Trail in Canmore, a convenient location for visitors exploring the Rockies.

What can I expect to see during the flight?
You’ll see Mount Assiniboine, the Three Sisters Peaks, Spray Lakes, and the glaciers and ice falls surrounding Mount Assiniboine.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but you should be comfortable with helicopter travel and understand that good weather is necessary for the tour to proceed.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 161 days in advance, indicating its popularity and the importance of early planning.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a rescheduled date or a full refund.

How many people can join the tour?
A maximum of five travelers can join, making it a more intimate experience.

What is the price?
Per person, the cost is $332.77, which reflects the exclusivity and the scenic value of the experience.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the experience are non-refundable.

Is this experience suitable for photography?
Absolutely. The views are stunning and provide excellent opportunities for memorable photos, especially of glaciers and mountain peaks from above.

In summary, the 35-minute Mt Assiniboine & Glaciers Helicopter Tour offers a rare window into Canada’s rugged beauty—perfect for travelers who want a personalized, scenic adventure that highlights the grandeur of the Canadian Rockies. Whether for a special occasion or just to treat yourself to an unforgettable perspective, this flight provides stunning views and a sense of awe that will stay with you long after the engines have stopped.