Virgin Utah is a fantastic base for exploring Zion National Park and its surrounding wilderness. With its proximity to stunning rock formations, rugged mountains, and historic sites, Virgin offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests and activity levels. Our favorites include aerial adventures for panoramic views and off-road excursions that bring you closer to the terrain. We especially love the Zion helicopter tours for their spectacular vistas and the off-road trips to Grafton Ghost Town for a touch of history. If you’re after a unique perspective on Zion’s geology and natural beauty, these tours won’t disappoint.
Quick Overview
Below, we’ve rounded up the best options for your Virgin Utah adventure. Whether you prefer soaring above the landscape or exploring on wheels, this list has something for you:
- Zion National Park: 10- or 20-Minute Scenic Helicopter Tour
- Zion National Park and Canaan Cliffs: Helicopter Tour
- Virgin: Canaan Mountains & Grafton Ghost Town Off Road Tour
- Zion National Park, Canaan Cliffs: Extended Helicopter Tour
1. Zion National Park: 10- or 20-Minute Scenic Helicopter Tour
For around $125 per person, this short helicopter ride offers a quick but breathtaking flight over Zion’s most iconic sights. The tour lasts between 10 and 20 minutes, during which you’ll see the Virgin River valley and the impressive West Temple from above. The pilot provides informative narration about Zion’s geology and landmarks, making this a great choice for travelers who want a taste of aerial perspective without spending hours in the air.
What makes this flight special is its focus on Zion’s most recognizable features, like the Crater Hill Volcano and the towering cliffs that define the park’s landscape. The views are truly breathtaking and impossible to fully appreciate from the ground, especially in a compact timeframe. It’s perfect for those with limited time or for families looking for a memorable introduction to Zion’s grandeur. Reviewers love the professionalism of the pilot and the clear vistas, rating it 4.9 out of 5 based on 54 reviews.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a quick yet spectacular overview of Zion, ideal for first-timers or anyone wanting a scenic thrill with minimal time commitment.
2. Zion National Park and Canaan Cliffs: Helicopter Tour
At 30 minutes and priced at $299 per person, the “Zion National Park and Canaan Cliffs” helicopter tour provides a more immersive aerial experience. Flying over Zion’s stunning landscape and venturing into the Canaan Mountain Wilderness, this tour is designed for travelers eager to see more of the park’s wilderness and diverse terrain. The flight covers about 55 miles, taking you northward over Smith Mesa and Kolob Canyon.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on less-accessible areas, giving you a bird’s-eye view of Zion’s impressive cliffs and remote wilderness. The pilot offers rich commentary about the landscape, enhancing your appreciation of the terrain. This tour is suitable for anyone who wants a more comprehensive view of Zion and the surrounding mountains—an ideal pick if you’re considering a longer helicopter experience.
Reviewers highlight the amazing scenery and the chance to see parts of Zion not visible from the ground. The flight’s longer duration and wider scope make it a great value for those wanting a detailed aerial perspective.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a deeper look at Zion’s wilderness from above, this tour balances length and scenery for an unforgettable experience.
3. Virgin: Canaan Mountains & Grafton Ghost Town Off Road Tour
This 2-hour off-road adventure costs $129 per person and offers a hands-on exploration of Virgin’s rugged backcountry. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll traverse the scenic Canaan Mountain Wilderness and visit the historic Grafton Ghost Town, a well-preserved Mormon settlement abandoned in the early 1900s. The tour provides exclusive access to panoramic observation points that are otherwise difficult to reach.
What makes this tour unique is its combination of wilderness exploration and history. Your guide shares insights into the topography and natural features of the Virgin River Valley, enriching your understanding of the landscape’s formation. The visit to Grafton includes walking through the restored buildings and imagining what life was like for early settlers.
Guests describe this tour as “breathtaking” and appreciate the personalized experience with a small group. The off-road vehicle handles well over rough terrain, making it accessible for most active travelers. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a combination of outdoor adventure and history.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded choice for adventure lovers and history enthusiasts alike, offering a glimpse into Virgin’s pioneering past amid stunning scenery.
4. Zion National Park, Canaan Cliffs: Extended Helicopter Tour
For travelers wanting the ultimate aerial experience, this 55-minute extended helicopter tour costs $499 per person. It circles all of Zion National Park, offering magnificent views of the park’s famous rock formations and the less-frequented Canaan Mountain Wilderness. Covering about 100 miles, this flight provides a rundown of Zion’s natural wonders, including areas inaccessible from the ground.
The extended duration allows for a more relaxed experience, with opportunities to appreciate Zion’s colorful cliffs, deep canyons, and rugged terrain. The pilot shares stories about the park’s geology and natural features, adding depth to the visual spectacle. It’s an ideal choice for those who want a bird’s-eye tour that truly captures the scale and diversity of Zion.
Reviewers note the “breathtaking views” and that this tour is “worth every penny” for its full-circle perspective. It’s best suited for travelers with a bigger budget and a keen interest in Zion’s largest scenery.
Bottom Line: For the most comprehensive aerial tour in Zion, this extended flight offers an unforgettable look at the park’s grandeur.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, time availability, and interest level. If you’re after a quick overview, the 10- or 20-minute scenic helicopter is an excellent introduction. For a more detailed aerial view, the extended helicopter offers a full 55-minute experience.
If you prefer exploring on the ground and want a taste of Zion’s wilderness and history, the off-road Grafton Ghost Town tour provides a personalized adventure with a local guide. Meanwhile, the Canaan Cliffs helicopter strikes a balance, giving you a broader aerial perspective over Zion and nearby wilderness areas.
Book early, especially for the longer helicopter tours, as they tend to fill quickly. Consider your fitness level and interest in history or scenery to pick the right option for your trip.
Final thoughts
Virgin Utah offers a wide array of tours that suit different kinds of travelers. For those wanting quick, stunning views, the scenic helicopter is hard to beat, while adventure seekers may prefer the immersive off-road Grafton Ghost Town. For a true wow factor, the extended Zion helicopter will provide a full panoramic experience.
Whatever your interest, these tours are worth planning ahead for, especially if you want to secure a spot during peak seasons. With so many ways to see Zion’s stunning scenery, Virgin Utah is truly a gateway to unforgettable landscapes.