Alberta is a land that seems made for helicopter flights. With towering Canadian Rockies, sparkling lakes, and expansive wilderness, a bird’s-eye view makes everything come alive. Whether you’re after a romantic ride over snow-capped peaks or an adrenaline-pumping flight into glaciers, Alberta’s helicopter tours deliver. We’re particularly drawn to the private helicopter hike, which combines intimacy with stunning scenery, and the 45-minute tour to Mt. Assiniboine, known as the “Matterhorn of the Rockies.” These experiences offer more than just sightseeing—they provide a sense of how vast and wild this part of Canada truly is.
If you’re considering a helicopter adventure, this guide highlights four of the best helicopter tours in Alberta, each offering a different way to experience the province’s breathtaking landscape. From romantic getaways to scenic explorations, there’s something here for every traveler.
1. Canadian Rockies: Private Helicopter Tour and Hike for Two
This private helicopter tour and hike for two offers a perfect blend of romance and adventure. For around $734 per group, you enjoy a 20-minute flight over the Canadian Rockies, followed by a one-hour hike in the wilderness. The flight provides magnificent bird’s-eye views of rugged peaks and lush valleys, ideal for nature lovers or couples celebrating a special occasion. The hike or snowshoe afterward lets you soak in the scenery at your own pace, sharing a truly memorable experience.
What makes this tour stand out is its intimacy—it’s designed for just two people, making it perfect for a romantic escape. The pilot ensures you see the landscape from every angle, pointing out key landmarks, and the combination of flying and walking feels like a true immersion in nature. This is a high-cost experience but one that delivers personalized, impactful memories. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect rating of 5/5 from five delighted travelers.
Bottom line: If you want a tailored, romantic adventure that combines aerial views with a walk in the wild, this tour is hard to beat. It’s ideal for couples wanting something exclusive and extraordinary.
2. 30 Minute Helicopter Tour over Lake Minnewanka, Banff
For those who want a quick but breathtaking look at Banff’s stunning scenery, the 30-minute helicopter tour over Lake Minnewanka hits the mark. Starting at about $258.69 per person, this tour takes you over Lake Minnewanka, a famous waterbody beneath towering peaks. The flight includes views of the mountains, lakes, and landmarks within Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The tour highlights include flying over the site of Bankhead town, now submerged beneath Lake Minnewanka, and passing over notable mountains like Mt. Yamnuska. The pilot shares insightful commentary, making the experience educational as well as scenic. The tour lasts about 45 minutes in total, with a group setting that allows for camaraderie among fellow travelers.
During the trip, you’ll fly into Kananaskis country, passing End Mountain and soaring over the Minnewanka Valley, offering an aerial perspective that’s hard to match. Reviewers note the spectacular views and excellent pilot commentary, with the trip earning a perfect 5/5 rating from two reviews.
Bottom line: This tour offers solid value for a shorter experience packed with iconic sights. It suits travelers with limited time but a love of dramatic landscapes.
3. 45 mins Helicopter tour to Mt Assiniboine & its Glaciers in Banff
At number 3, the 45-minute helicopter tour to Mt Assiniboine and its glaciers takes you to one of the most photogenic peaks in the Rockies. For about $391.19 per person, you’ll soar above assorted lakes, glaciers, and mountain summits, including the famed “Matterhorn of the Rockies.” This tour is unique because it’s the only operator that can fly into the heart of Kananaskis Country in just minutes, giving you exclusive access to these spectacular sights.
Highlights include flying over Banff National Park, the Assiniboine and Gloria Glaciers, and passing Mt Baldy and Barrier Lake. The pilot’s narrative enriches the experience, pointing out the Enemy Warrior Lookout and the 1988 Winter Olympics site at Nakiska. The views of glaciers and rugged peaks are often described as breathtaking. The reviews praise the expert crew and the unforgettable scenery, with a 5/5 rating from two satisfied guests.
This tour is best suited for those who want a more extensive, high-elevation experience, especially if they’re interested in glaciers or mountain panoramas. The half-hour flight strikes a good balance between in-depth exploration and manageable time.
Bottom line: A perfect choice for travelers seeking an immersive, scenic flight with expert commentary over iconic peaks and glaciers in the Rockies.
4. 20 minute Helicopter Sightseeing Tour over Kananaskis Country
Rounding out our list is the 20-minute helicopter sightseeing tour over Kananaskis Country, priced at around $171.73 per person. Though shorter, it offers a concentrated dose of spectacular scenery—flying over Barrier Lake, Mt. Baldy, and Enemy Warrior Lookout. This tour is ideal if your schedule is tight but you still want to see the highlights of this rugged area.
This flight is notable because it takes you into the heart of Kananaskis, an area renowned for its mountain vistas and outdoor activities. The pilot shares local insights, making it a rewarding experience despite its brevity. The tour ends back at the starting point, making it a convenient option for travelers with limited time. Since there are no reviews yet, it’s best suited for those who want a quick, scenic overview without the extra frills or longer commitments.
Bottom line: A budget-friendly, quick glimpse of Kananaskis’ rugged beauty—a good pick for travelers who want a scenic flight without the extra time or expense.
$171.73 per person
How to Choose the Best Helicopter Tour in Alberta
When selecting your ideal helicopter experience, consider your budget, time constraints, and what landscape excites you most. For a romantic adventure, the private helicopter hike (see details here) offers intimacy and personalized views. If you prefer a short and sweet introduction to Banff’s lakes and peaks, the 30-minute Lake Minnewanka tour (more info) is perfect. For a fuller glacier experience, the 45-minute tour to Mt Assiniboine (details) provides immersive mountain scenery. Lastly, the quick Kananaskis flight (see here) is a great choice for a short, scenic overview.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular times in summer. Think about your fitness level—some tours include hikes or snowshoes—so choose one that matches your activity comfort zone.
Final Thoughts
Alberta’s helicopter tours open up spectacular views that are impossible to appreciate from the ground. From romantic helicopter hikes to glacier-filled mountain flights, there’s an experience here for nearly every kind of traveler. For those looking for an intimate adventure, the private helicopter and hike tops the list. If you’re pressed for time but want breathtaking scenery, the Lake Minnewanka or Kananaskis tours deliver stunning highlights at a lower cost.
No matter which tour you pick, these flights promise a memorable perspective on Alberta’s majestic landscapes. Book early, bring your camera, and prepare to see the Rockies from a whole new angle.