Mogollon Rim – 80 Mile Helicopter Tour in Sedona

Imagine soaring high above Arizona’s rugged landscape, taking in sweeping views of cliffs, forests, and winding hills — all in just under an hour. This Mogollon Rim helicopter tour offers the chance to see one of Sedona’s most impressive natural features from an exhilarating vantage point. Priced at $713 per person, the 50-minute flight in a Turbine Helicopter seats only six passengers, making it a surprisingly intimate experience for such a grand spectacle.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the knowledgeable pilot-guides who make the landscape come alive with stories, and the high-quality helicopter that ensures a smooth, quiet ride. You’ll find the views are remarkably clear, perfect for snapping photos before or after the flight. That said, a possible consideration is the price — at over $700, it’s an investment, but one that often pays off with unforgettable memories and stunning visuals.

This tour is ideal for anyone who wants a quick but immersive glimpse of Sedona’s natural beauty from above. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a one-of-a-kind perspective on Arizona’s landscape, you’ll find this experience worth considering. Just be sure you’re comfortable with the weight restrictions and the small group setting.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Experience expansive vistas of cliffs, forests, and hills from a helicopter.
• Small Group: Limited to six participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable pilot provides a guided commentary on the landscape.
• Convenient Meeting Point: Easy to find after the all red building on the left at the designated stop.
• Premium Experience: Noise-reducing headsets and air conditioning enhance comfort.
• Flexibility: Book now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

When we think about sightseeing tours in Sedona, many focus on land-based activities, such as jeep rides or hiking. This helicopter tour stands out because it offers a completely different perspective, one that highlights the scale and grandeur of the Mogollon Rim — a dramatic escarpment that’s part of the Colorado Plateau.

Your journey begins at a clearly marked meeting point, just beyond a four-way stop, where you’ll walk into an all-red building to check in. The check-in process is straightforward, and you won’t need to worry about heavy luggage or large bags, as they are not permitted onboard.

The helicopter itself is a Turbine model, designed for stability and comfort, with noise-reducing features and air conditioning. This ensures that even in the Arizona heat, the ride remains pleasant. Because the group is limited to just six guests, you’ll likely enjoy a more relaxed, less crowded experience — ideal if you’re looking to avoid large tours or buses.

During the 50-minute flight, you’ll fly over Sedona’s impressive cliffs and lush forests, with the pilot providing commentary in English. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable and engaging the guides are — for example, one traveler noted, “Our pilot, Lisa, was fantastic, sharing stories about the landscape that made the views even more meaningful.” Photos taken before or after the ride let you capture the moment without rushing.

The route often includes a broad overview of the Mogollon Rim, showcasing its rugged cliffs and sweeping hills. The views are breathtaking, especially if you’re lucky with the lighting, which many reviewers say is best in the morning or late afternoon.

Breaking Down the Itinerary and What Makes It Special

While the tour’s primary highlight is the flight itself, the experience is carefully structured to maximize your enjoyment and understanding of this remarkable landscape. The check-in process is quick and efficient, and the small group size means you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and take photos.

Once airborne, expect a guided narration from your pilot, who will point out notable landmarks and share insights about the geology and natural history of the region. Since the aircraft is equipped with noise-canceling headsets, you can easily converse or listen to the guide without distraction.

The route offers a panoramic overview of the Mogollon Rim, a 200-mile-long escarpment that forms a natural boundary in Arizona. The Rim’s cliffs plunge into lush forests, and from above, the contrast between rough terrain and green canopy is striking. Many reviewers mention how the vastness of the landscape makes them feel like tiny specks in a giant world, which is a rare and humbling experience.

Photographers will love the chance to snap high-quality images of the expansive scenery, especially with the aircraft’s large windows and the opportunity to take pictures before or after the flight. We liked the thoughtful touch of providing a quiet environment with air conditioning, which adds to the overall comfort during the 50-minute adventure.

What You Can Expect in Terms of Value

While the price of $713 per person might seem steep at first glance, consider what’s included: a guided tour in a modern helicopter, small group size, and professional narration. The intimate nature of the experience ensures you’re not just a passenger but part of a personalized adventure.

Many travelers note that the quality of the views and the expertise of the pilot make this a worthwhile splurge. They also appreciate the flexibility of booking with a “reserve now, pay later” option and the ease of cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The fact that the tour operates in the morning, afternoon, or evening means you can choose a time that best suits your sightseeing schedule or preferred lighting conditions for photos.

Practical Tips for Your Flight

• Weight Restrictions: Standard seats are for those 229 lbs and below. If you’re heavier, you’ll need to pay for a comfort seat, which costs 1.5x, or a comfort plus seat, which is 2x. This is important to plan ahead.
• No food or drinks: Remember, no outside food or large bags are allowed onboard, so plan accordingly.
• Weather considerations: The tour is weather-dependent, so check your schedule and be flexible if conditions are cloudy or stormy.
• Best time to fly: Many reviewers suggest mornings or late afternoons for the best lighting and more dramatic views.

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Who Would Love This Tour?

This helicopter flight is ideal for travelers who love unique viewpoints and want a brief but impactful experience. It’s perfect for those celebrating a special occasion, like a honeymoon or anniversary, or for anyone wanting to see Sedona’s landscape from a completely new angle.

It’s also well-suited for those comfortable with small groups and willing to invest in a premium adventure that combines comfort with breathtaking scenery. If you’re interested in geology, natural landscapes, or just want a memorable story to tell, this tour will check those boxes.

Final Thoughts

The Mogollon Rim helicopter tour offers a rare bird’s-eye view of Arizona’s rugged beauty. It combines expert narration, comfortable aircraft, and an intimate group setting to create a memorable experience. While the price might be on the higher side, the quality of the scenery and the professionalism of the guide make it a worthwhile splurge for most travelers.

If you’re looking for a visual feast, love adventure, or simply want to see Sedona from a fresh perspective, this tour can deliver that and more. Just be ready for a small group, a bit of a splurge, and an hour of awe-inspiring views that will stay with you long after you return home.

FAQs

How long is the helicopter tour?
The flight lasts approximately 50 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the views without feeling rushed.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is past a four-way stop, in front of an all-red building on the left. Just walk in to check in.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes the guided helicopter tour, noise-reducing headsets, and the opportunity to take photos before or after your flight.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, standard seats are for those under 229 lbs. Heavier passengers may need to pay for comfort or comfort plus seats, which cost more.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your scheduled tour for a full refund.

What languages are available for the narration?
The tour is conducted in English, with an English audio guide provided during the flight.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the small group setting and nature of the experience suggest it’s best for older children and adults comfortable with helicopter rides.

This tour offers a rare chance to see Sedona’s spectacular landscape from an exciting perspective. Whether you’re a photography buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a memorable adventure, it’s an experience worth considering during your Arizona visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: