45-minute Family Special Tour of Moab Backcountry by Plane

A 45-minute flight over Moab’s stunning backcountry offers a perspective you won’t forget. For just $258 per person, you get a quick yet immersive aerial tour that covers some of the most famous landmarks in Utah’s Canyon Country — including Arches National Park, Canyonlands, and the Colorado River. If you’re traveling with family, especially with kids, this is a rare treat that combines adventure with spectacular scenery.

What we love about this experience is how it manages to fit so much into a short window: soaring above towering redrock spires and delicate arches that are almost too perfect to be real. Plus, the chance for children to fly free when accompanied by two adults makes it an excellent value for families looking for an unforgettable memory. The safety record of Redtail Air and their experienced pilots add peace of mind to this adventure.

One thing to keep in mind is that, at just 45 minutes, this is a quick trip — if you’re craving a longer, more leisurely flight, you might find this a bit brief. Also, weather can always impact plans, so clear skies are ideal for the best views.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a taste of Moab’s incredible landscape from above without committing to a full-day tour or strenuous activity. Kids who giggle and shout with excitement, as one reviewer described, will find this an especially joyful introduction to the region.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: Fly over iconic landmarks like Corona Arch, Dead Horse Point State Park, and the Potash Evaporation Ponds.
• Family Friendly: One child up to 12 years flies free with two adults, making it a great value for families.
• Expert Pilots: The company has over 40 years of experience, ensuring safety and professional guidance.
• Quick Yet Complete: The 45-minute duration covers major sights without feeling rushed.
• Weather-Dependent: Good weather is essential—cancelations are possible if conditions aren’t ideal.
• Convenient Meeting Point: Start and end at the same location in Moab, simplifying logistics.

An In-Depth Look at the Moab Backcountry Flight

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Why It Matters

This tour begins at 91 W Aviation Way in Moab, a convenient spot for most travelers staying nearby. Once aboard, you’ll immediately notice your pilot’s professionalism and enthusiasm, setting the tone for a memorable flight.

Your first views will be of Arches National Park, famous for its incredible natural stone arches like the well-known Landscape Arch. From above, you’ll appreciate the scale and complexity of these formations far more than from the ground. The aerial perspective reveals how the natural forces carved these structures over millennia, making it a visual feast for geography buffs and casual viewers alike.

Next, the flight takes you over Canyonlands National Park — a vast wilderness of canyons, mesas, and rivers. The sheer size of this park becomes apparent from the air, with its deep gorges and layered cliffs. The guide mentioned that “the scenery in and around Moab is unlike anywhere else in the world,” and this is especially true when you fly over these sprawling, rugged terrains.

One of the highlights is a flyover of Corona Arch, an impressive natural formation that’s less crowded than the more famous arches but equally stunning. The pilot will give you a close-up view of this gorgeous, curved stone, often with a bit of a thrill as you pass right overhead.

The tour also includes a flyover of Mineral Canyon and the Green River, where you can see the winding waterway cutting through the redrock landscape, and the Potash Evaporation Ponds, which add a splash of industrial activity to the scenic mix. These ponds are a fascinating sight, especially for those interested in how the land and industry coexist in this remote area.

Finally, the flight passes The Moab Fault, Behind the Rocks, and the Determination Towers. These geological features demonstrate the region’s dynamic history, with fault lines and towering formations showcasing billions of years of Earth’s evolution.

What Travelers Experience from the Air

Many reviews describe how breathtaking the scenery appears from above. One traveler wrote, “My daughter couldn’t stop giggling and shouting ‘amazing!’ into the microphone,” highlighting how engaging and joyful the flight can be for kids. The ability to see the Colorado and Green Rivers flowing through the canyon floor offers a perspective only accessible from the sky, emphasizing the vastness of this landscape.

Safety, Comfort, and Group Size

Redtail Air boasts over 40 years of experience, with a solid safety record and well-maintained aircraft. The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, which means you won’t be squeezed into a crowded plane. This small group size allows for a more personalized experience, with the pilot often sharing interesting facts and answering questions along the way.

The aircraft is designed to provide clear views, and with a mobile ticket, the process is straightforward. The tour duration of about 45 minutes is perfect for those with tight schedules or wanting a quick overview without feeling rushed.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participation

• Book early, especially during peak summer months, since this is a popular experience.
• Confirm your weather conditions beforehand; poor weather might lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
• If traveling with children, note the “fly free” policy for kids up to 12 yrs when accompanied by two adults—this can add substantial value.
• The meeting point is straightforward, and since the tour ends where it begins, logistics are simple.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This flight suits those seeking a bird’s-eye view of Moab’s dramatic landscape without the physical exertion of hiking or driving. It’s ideal for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a quick yet rundown of the region’s highlights. If you’re interested in photography, the aerial vantage point provides unique opportunities for capturing the vastness and detail of Canyon Country.

Travelers with limited time in Moab or those looking for an experience that combines excitement, education, and stunning scenery will find this tour to be a highlight of their trip. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate the safety and professionalism of experienced pilots, ensuring peace of mind throughout the flight.

The Sum Up

In essence, the 45-minute Family Special Tour of Moab Backcountry by Plane delivers a compact but immersive glimpse into one of America’s most striking landscapes. From the moment you lift off, you’ll be treated to views of world-famous arches, deep canyon vistas, and winding rivers—all in a safe, comfortable aircraft flown by seasoned pilots.

While it’s a quick experience, the richness of the scenery and the ability to see landmarks from above make it exceptionally valuable. It’s especially well-suited for families with kids, or travelers eager to get a broad sense of Moab’s geology and geography without a full day of activity.

If you’re craving a fresh perspective and unforgettable photo opportunities, this tour hits the sweet spot of convenience, spectacle, and authenticity. Just make sure to check the weather, book in advance, and prepare for a truly memorable adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, and in fact, one child up to 12 years flies free with two adults, making it an excellent family option. Kids are often delighted by the views and the experience of flying.

How long does the flight last?
The flight duration is approximately 45 minutes, providing a quick but thorough overview of Moab’s most famous sights.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll see Arches National Park, Canyonlands, Corona Arch, Mineral Canyon, Green River, Potash Evaporation Ponds, The Moab Fault, Behind the Rocks, and Determination Towers.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at 91 W Aviation Way in Moab, simplifying logistics.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. If weather conditions are unfavorable, the tour will be canceled or rescheduled.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is six, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Is the aircraft safe and well-maintained?
Yes, Redtail Air has over 40 years of operating experience with an excellent safety record and meticulously maintained aircraft.

What’s the best time to book?
Peak summer months fill quickly, so booking early is recommended to secure your preferred date and time.

This flight provides an eye-opening way to see Moab’s natural beauty from a perspective that’s both exhilarating and informative. Whether you’re traveling with family or exploring solo, it’s a truly memorable way to connect with some of the most iconic landscapes in the American West.