Backcountry Beer Tasting Heli-Tour & Landing (Depart SKY Hangar)

Imagine soaring over the rugged Coast Mountains of British Columbia, landing in a remote mountain spot, and then sipping craft beer while soaking in nature’s untouched beauty. That’s pretty much what this Backcountry Beer Tasting Heli-Tour offers, starting from the SKY Hangar in Pitt Meadows. For $382.58 per person, you get about 30 minutes of helicopter flight, a 30-minute mountain landing, and a curated craft beer tasting featuring Twin Sails Brewery. It’s a mix of adventure, scenery, and local flavor packed into roughly one hour.

What we really love about this experience is the chance to see Vancouver’s surrounding wilderness from the air, combined with the relaxing pleasure of tasting excellent local beers in the middle of nowhere. The knowledgeable guides and spectacular views make this a memorable outing. On the flip side, the tour requires a minimum of two booked seats to depart, which might be a bump if you’re solo or traveling alone.

This tour suits travelers looking for a high-adrenaline experience that’s also laid-back and social. If you’re a fan of helicopter rides, outdoor adventures, or craft beer lovers wanting a taste of the mountains, this is right up your alley.

Key Points

• Stunning Aerial Views: Fly over lush forests, rugged peaks, and alpine lakes of the Coast Mountains.
• Unique Mountain Landing: Experience exclusive access in a remote mountain spot for 30 minutes.
• Craft Beer Tasting: Enjoy curated brews from Twin Sails Brewery, perfectly paired with the scenery.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Kyle and Roger add depth with interesting facts and friendly service.
• Limited Solo Opportunities: Minimum two passengers per booking, pairing may be possible.
• Weather Dependence: Tours are weather-dependent, with options for rescheduling or refunds.

The Experience: A Close Look at What You Can Expect

The Start at Sky Hangar in Pitt Meadows

The adventure begins at the Sky Hangar, just a short drive from Vancouver. The meeting point offers easy access and a relaxed pre-flight atmosphere. You’ll check in, get briefed, and meet your small group—up to ten fellow travelers—ready for an hour of mountain magic. Most travelers find the process straightforward, and the check-in process is smooth, especially since the experience is booked fairly far in advance—about 23 days on average.

The Scenic Flight: A Glimpse of Vancouver’s Wild Side

Once aboard the helicopter, the fun starts. The flight time is about 30 minutes, providing a generous window to admire the views without feeling rushed. The pilot will describe landmarks, the natural features of the region, and share tidbits about local history—adding an educational touch to the ride.

You’ll soar over remote Canadian wilderness, including temperate rainforests and glacial lakes, which are often inaccessible by land. The views are nothing short of spectacular—vast forests stretching to the horizon, jagged mountain peaks piercing the sky, and shimmering lakes reflecting the sun. Many reviews mention how spectacular and unforgettable the scenery is, with one guest noting the “place where we went was perfect, like in the movie Twilight”—a nod to the otherworldly beauty of this landscape.

The Mountain Landing: Quiet and Exclusive

After the flight, you’ll land in a remote mountain location—the exact spot varies depending on conditions but is always breathtaking. Here, you get about 30 minutes to unwind in nature, with no crowds, just the quiet sounds of the wilderness. It’s a perfect chance to take photos, relax, and really feel the scale of the mountains around you.

Guests often comment on how peaceful and pristine the area is, making it an ideal setting for a brief escape from city life. The landing feels like a secret escape, only accessible by helicopter.

The Beer Tasting: Local Flavors in the Wilderness

Back in the helicopter or at a designated spot, you’ll enjoy a curated craft beer tasting featuring Twin Sails Brewery. The selection is chosen to complement the scenery, enhancing the experience of being in this pristine environment. For those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks, options are available upon request.

Guests have described this part as “the best patio in town”, combining the rugged outdoors with the relaxed pleasure of tasting local brews. It’s a clever pairing—craft beer and mountain vistas—making this a truly memorable experience.

Wrap-Up and Return

The tour concludes back at the SKY Hangar after another brief flight. The whole experience, including transport to and from Vancouver, is efficient and well-organized, with most travelers feeling they’ve added a one-of-a-kind adventure to their trip.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The most praised aspects are the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. Guests often mention how guides like Kyle and Roger make the experience friendly, informative, and fun. Their insights into the landscape, history, and landmarks really add depth to the flight, elevating it beyond just sightseeing.

On top of that, the photo opportunities are fantastic—standing in the middle of the mountains with a cold craft beer in hand, surrounded by untouched wilderness, is something you won’t forget.

The value of this experience is noteworthy. For roughly an hour of activity, you get a scenic flight, a mountain landing, and a local beer tasting—all curated to give you a taste of British Columbia’s natural beauty and local flavor.

Possible Considerations

The main drawback is the weather dependency. If fog, rain, or poor visibility occur, the tour may be canceled, though operators offer rescheduling or refunds. Also, because a minimum of two booked seats is required, solo travelers might need to wait for a partner or join a group. This could be a slight hurdle if you’re traveling alone and hoping for a spontaneous adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous spirits who enjoy helicopter rides and want a unique perspective of Vancouver’s wild landscape. It’s also ideal if you’re a craft beer enthusiast eager to combine local flavors with outdoor scenery. Travelers who appreciate well-guided tours and don’t mind some weather unpredictability will find this a rewarding, memorable outing.

Final Thoughts

The Backcountry Beer Tasting Heli-Tour offers an exciting balance of flight, scenery, and flavor. With friendly guides, breathtaking landscapes, and a chance to sip local beer in an untouched mountain setting, it’s a fantastic way to see British Columbia from a different angle.

If you’re craving a small-group experience with a touch of luxury and adventure, this tour delivers a genuine sense of discovery. It’s especially well-suited for those who value authentic, off-the-beaten-path moments—and who aren’t afraid of a little altitude to get that perfect view.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, this helicopter trip ticks all the boxes for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The full experience lasts about one hour, including the flights, landings, and tasting.

What is the flight duration?
The flight time is approximately 30 minutes, giving plenty of time to see the scenery from above.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 18799 Airport Wy #170, Pitt Meadows, BC—close to Vancouver but with a more relaxed vibe.

Is there a minimum number of participants?
Yes, a minimum of two passengers is required to depart. Solo travelers might be paired with others or need to wait for a second booking.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to weather are covered; you can reschedule or get a full refund if conditions aren’t suitable.

Are non-alcoholic drinks available?
Absolutely, non-alcoholic beverage options can be provided upon request.

What if I’m worried about flying?
The reviews highlight how guides like Kyle and Evert make first-time flyers feel comfortable and safe.

Is this suitable for children?
The tour requires participants to be 19 years or older for alcohol consumption, but more general age restrictions aren’t specified.

How accessible is the landing spot?
The landing is in a remote mountain location, accessible only by helicopter, offering a truly secluded experience.

What should I bring?
Dress appropriately for mountain weather—layers help—and bring your camera for the countless photo opportunities.

If you’re craving a blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and local flavor, the Backcountry Beer Tasting Heli-Tour is an experience you’ll remember for a lifetime.