West Yellowstone is a prime spot for quick aerial adventures thanks to its proximity to Yellowstone National Park’s stunning landscapes. With rugged mountains, vast lakes, and fiery geysers just a short drive away, flying offers a unique perspective that ground tours can’t match. Among the options, the 1 Hour Aerial Tour All Included Trifecta Tour really stands out for its comprehensive approach, allowing you to see multiple highlights in just an hour. Meanwhile, the 1 Hour Aerial Tour Over the Western Boundary of Yellowstone is perfect if you want a broad view of Yellowstone’s vastness without the crowds. Lastly, the West Yellowstone: 1 hour Aerial Tour The Trifecta offers a private, intimate experience in a small plane, ideal for those wanting a personalized adventure.
These tours are great because they pack a lot of scenery into a short time, making them perfect for travelers with limited schedules or those who want a quick but memorable way to appreciate Yellowstone’s grandeur. Whether you’re interested in mountain peaks, lakes, or the park’s western boundary, each of these options promises a memorable flight.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we’ll cover three top 1-hour aerial tours in West Yellowstone. From the all-encompassing Trifecta experience to the broad views of Yellowstone’s western edge, each tour offers distinct advantages. For detailed insights into what makes each one special, read on.
1. 1 Hour Aerial Tour All Included Trifecta Tour
At number one, the 1 Hour Aerial Tour All Included Trifecta Tour combines parts of three of the most popular short tours in West Yellowstone. For $386.81 per person, this tour promises a “big picture” view, flying over West Yellowstone, Hebgen Lake, Earthquake Lake, and the Continental Divide mountains. The flight is precisely one hour, making it a flexible and exciting way to see some of the most iconic landscapes.
What makes this tour unique is its blend of routes—think of it as a sampler platter for aerial sightseeing. The pilot will take you over Hebgen Lake, famous for its earthquake history, and Earthquake Lake, which was formed after a 1959 quake. The flight also includes sweeping views of the continental divide and the rugged mountains nearby. Passengers rave about the flight’s smooth operation and the pilot’s knowledge, making this a top pick for first-timers. The tour ends back at the airport, so it’s easy to fit into a busy schedule.
Bottom Line: If you want a comprehensive view that combines multiple highlight areas in a short time, this tour offers unbeatable value for the experience. It’s especially good for those who want variety without multiple bookings.
2. 1 Hour Aerial Tour Over the Western Boundary of Yellowstone
Second on the list is the 1 Hour Aerial Tour Over the Western Boundary of Yellowstone. Priced at $386.81 per person, this flight focuses on giving you a panoramic view of Yellowstone’s western edge—a less crowded area that’s just as breathtaking.
This tour is ideal if you want to see the true size of Yellowstone National Park from above. It’s especially suited for travelers who are fascinated by the park’s thermal features, mountains, and vast wilderness, but prefer to avoid the more tourist-heavy spots. The aircraft’s performance allows the pilot to fly high, giving you a sweeping perspective that’s almost impossible to replicate from the ground. Since it’s a direct flight along the park boundary, you won’t miss the park’s impressive scale or the distant peaks that define Yellowstone’s skyline.
Reviewers note that the views are exceptional, and the flight offers a “big-picture” perspective, perfect for understanding how Yellowstone fits into the larger landscape. The tour ends back at the airport, making it a convenient option for a quick sightseeing fix.
Bottom Line: This is an excellent choice for those who want a broad overview of Yellowstone from above, especially if you’re interested in seeing the park’s boundary and thermal activity from a safe distance.
$386.81 per person
3. West Yellowstone: 1 Hour Aerial Tour The Trifecta
The third option is the West Yellowstone: 1 hour Aerial Tour The Trifecta, which costs $397 per person and offers a small-plane, intimate experience. This is the only tour operating from West Yellowstone in a private, Cessna 182, with a maximum of three people onboard.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on personalization. Being a private flight, it’s ideal for travelers who value a tailored experience. The pilot, with extensive flying experience, will guide you over the major sights, including mountains, lakes, and the Yellowstone basin, all in a single flight. The tour combines features from the other shorter tours, delivering a comprehensive yet exclusive experience.
Guests often comment on the exhilaration of flying in a small plane and the chance to ask questions during the flight. Its limited group size makes it perfect for couples or small families seeking a more personal encounter with Yellowstone’s stunning scenery.
Bottom Line: If you prefer an exclusive, private experience and are willing to pay a bit more for tailored attention, this tour offers both flexibility and a memorable flight.
$397 per person
How to Choose
Choosing the right aerial tour depends on what you want to see and how much you want to spend. For a full, all-in-one experience with a good mix of sights, the Trifecta Tour is hard to beat. If your priority is broad views of Yellowstone’s western boundary, then the Western Boundary Tour will give you a sweeping perspective of the park’s size and landscape. For those seeking a more personal touch and a private flight, the Trifecta in a small plane offers a tailored adventure.
Consider factors like your budget, interest in thermal features versus mountain views, and whether you prefer a small-group or shared experience. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak months, as these tours are popular.
Final Thoughts
West Yellowstone offers a range of one-hour aerial tours that suit different interests and budgets. For comprehensive views that cover multiple highlights, the Trifecta Tour is a top choice. For broader park perspectives, the Western Boundary Tour works well, while the private small-plane option delivers a more intimate experience.
No matter which you choose, these tours promise a quick but unforgettable way to appreciate Yellowstone’s vastness and beauty from above. If you’re short on time but want a highlight reel of nature’s finest spectacles, booking your flight early is a smart move. The skies over Yellowstone are waiting.