A Quick Look at the 20-Minute Scenic Helicopter Tour in Ontario

If you’re craving a brief but breathtaking escape from the usual sightseeing routine, this 20-minute private helicopter tour in Ontario might just be your perfect pick. Operating from Nottawa, near Collingwood, this experience whisks you over some of the most captivating scenery in the region — from the historic town of Collingwood with its shimmering blue waters to the sprawling Niagara Escarpment, dotted with ski hills and resorts. Priced at around $207 per person, it’s a bit of an investment but one that offers something rare: exclusive, front-row views on a private flight.
What we love most about this experience is how personalized it feels—with only your group on board, you’re free to soak in the scenery without the crowds. Plus, the 20-minute duration makes it manageable even for those with tight schedules or looking to try helicopter riding for the first time. That said, since it’s a short flight, it’s not a deep dive into the region but rather a quick, high-impact glimpse of Ontario’s natural beauty. This tour suits travelers with a sense of adventure, a love for panoramic views, and an appreciation for well-organized, customer-focused experiences. If you’re looking to tick “helicopter ride” off your bucket list with a manageable commitment, this could be just what you need.
Key Points

- Private Tour: Only your group participates, ensuring a more intimate experience.
- Stunning Views: Over Collingwood, Blue Mountain, and Niagara shoreline—ideal for photography and memorable moments.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it inclusive for families and all travelers.
- Duration & Timing: A 20-minute flight that fits comfortably into a busy day.
- Includes Headset: For clear communication with your pilot and a better understanding of what you’re seeing.
- Booking & Weather: Most book 14 days in advance; weather-dependent with full refund if canceled due to poor conditions.
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An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect
This helicopter adventure begins at 1973 Nottawasaga Concession 6, Nottawa, where you’ll meet your pilot—most reviews mention friendly, professional staff who make the process smooth and reassuring. Once aboard, your first stop is a flight over Collingwood, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the historic town and its distinctive blue waters. Many travelers comment on how beautiful and clear the scenery is, with one reviewer noting it was a “great ride” with impressive views.
Next, you’ll fly over the Niagara Escarpment—a UNESCO biosphere reserve—where you’ll see ski hills, resorts, and the shoreline stretching along Lake Huron. These vistas are especially striking during the right weather, and several reviews highlight how smooth and comfortable the ride was, even for nervous first-timers. One reviewer appreciated how their pilot Marcus made them feel at ease from start to finish, which is worth noting if you’re worried about flying.
The Highlights: Why This Tour Stands Out
What makes this helicopter tour special is its exclusivity—because it’s a private experience, you’re not sharing the sky with strangers. This is a significant advantage for those looking for a personalized adventure or celebrating a special occasion, such as birthdays or anniversaries, as many reviews mention. The inclusion of headsets enhances the experience, allowing you to hear the pilot clearly and ask questions about the scenery you’re flying over.
The short duration is a plus for travelers who want a taste of helicopter flight without the commitment of longer tours. It’s also wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it more inclusive than many other adventure activities in the region.
The Experience: Real Traveler Insights
Multiple reviews rave about the scenery—“the views are beautiful,” and “the landscape was simply amazing,” seem to be common themes. Several travelers mention feeling nervous initially but feeling completely at ease thanks to the pilot’s professionalism and smooth ride, including one who said, “there was nothing to worry about.”
Others highlight the view of Lake Huron’s shoreline and the ski hills, describing it as “a lifetime experience” and “perfect for families or couples,” particularly if you’re celebrating a special day. One review even called it “one of the best experiences of my life,” which speaks volumes about how memorable and impactful this brief flight can be.
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Price and Value: Is It Worth It?
At $207.11 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest activity in Ontario, but the value depends on what you’re looking for. If you truly want to see the region from an exclusive vantage point, with a private, well-organized operation, it’s a fair price. The fact that it’s a 20-minute private flight means you’re paying for personalized service and premium views—not just a touristy thrill.
Many reviews praise the professionalism of the staff and the smoothness of the ride, which can justify the cost for those seeking a special, memorable experience. It’s also worth considering that most book 14 days in advance, so planning ahead is wise.
Summary: Who Should Consider This Tour?
This helicopter tour is perfect for first-timers curious about flying, families looking for a memorable adventure, or couples celebrating a special occasion. If you value personalized experiences and breathtaking scenery in a short, manageable window, you’ll likely love this tour. It’s equally suitable for those with limited time but a desire to see Ontario from above.
It’s a good choice for adventurers, nature lovers, and photography enthusiasts, thanks to the spectacular vistas that unfold below. Travelers who want a comfortable, accessible experience with friendly pilots will also find it appealing.
Who Might Not Love It?
If you’re seeking a longer tour or want an in-depth exploration of the area, this might feel a bit rushed. Plus, if weather conditions are poor—since this is weather-dependent—you’ll need to be flexible with your schedule or prepared for possible cancellations.
FAQs

How long is the helicopter tour?
The flight lasts approximately 20 minutes, making it a quick but impactful experience.
Is the tour private?
Yes, it is a private tour—only your group will participate, ensuring a more exclusive experience.
What is included in the price?
The price covers the 20-minute flight and a headset for clear communication with your pilot.
Is the tour accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair and stroller accessible, accommodating a variety of travelers.
Where do we meet?
The tour starts and ends at 1973 Nottawasaga Concession 6, Nottawa, ON.
Do I need to book in advance?
Most travelers book about 14 days in advance, though last-minute bookings might be possible depending on availability.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a reschedule or a full refund.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.
In The Sum Up
This 20-minute private helicopter tour offers a unique opportunity to see some of Ontario’s most stunning landscapes from a bird’s-eye view. The combination of personalized service, spectacular scenery, and accessible features makes it a standout experience for those seeking a memorable, manageable adventure. While it’s a short flight, many travelers leave with a big impression, often describing it as one of the best experiences of their lives.
If you’re after a special treat that balances comfort and adventure, and want to capture incredible photos, this tour deserves serious consideration. It’s especially suited for first-time helicopter riders, families, or couples celebrating something special. Just remember to book early, check the weather forecast, and be ready for a thrilling view of Ontario’s natural beauty.
Note: For more options or longer tours, you might explore other cruises or sightseeing adventures, but for a quick, high-quality aerial view, this helicopter experience hits the mark.
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- Self Guided Driving Taste Tour – Brantford & Paris, ON – Private
- 3-Hour 1000 Islands Cruise from Gananoque with views of Boldt Castle
- Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Cambridge by Zombie Scavengers
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- Private Singhampton Caves Hiking Tour, Collingwood/Blue Mountain
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