Secret Wilderness (45+ Mile) – Sedona Helicopter Tour

Imagine soaring high above the breathtaking red rock formations of Sedona, Arizona, with only the hum of the helicopter and the wind in your ears. This 45-mile helicopter tour offers a unique perspective on one of America’s most scenic landscapes—covering over 30 minutes of flight time with plenty of opportunities to gape at iconic sights like Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Secret Canyon. For $438.30 per person, this experience is a bit of an investment, but it’s one that packs in incredible views, personalized service, and a sense of adventure that’s hard to match.

What we love most about this tour is how close you get to the formations—flying right over some of the key landmarks—and the small group size, capped at five, which makes the whole experience intimate and friendly. Plus, the included noise-reducing headsets mean you can actually hear your pilot’s commentary, making it both fun and informative. On the flip side, depending on the weather, your schedule might get rearranged, which can be a little frustrating if you’ve traveled a long way to see Sedona from the air.

This tour is perfect for travelers who crave spectacular scenery with a dash of adventure, especially those interested in seeing ancient cliff dwellings, rugged canyons, and famous hiking spots from a new vantage point. If you’re comfortable with heights and looking for an unforgettable way to experience Sedona’s natural beauty, this helicopter flight should be on your list.

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views of Sedona’s famous rock formations and canyons.
• Small group experience with only five passengers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Highlights include Cathedral Rock, Secret Canyon, Boynton Canyon, and more.
• Includes noise-canceling headsets for commentary and better listening.
• Duration of approximately 30 minutes offers a good balance of time and value.
• Weather can affect scheduling, so flexibility is helpful.

A Closer Look at the Sedona Helicopter Tour Experience

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Why It Matters

The tour begins at Sedona’s airport, where right away you get a sense of the landscape’s scale and drama. As your helicopter lifts off, you’ll immediately see the Thunder Mountain, Coffee Pot Rock, Ship Rock, and The Mitten—these are some of Sedona’s most recognizable formations, and being able to glimpse them from above offers a new appreciation for their size and shape. Many reviews mention how exciting it is to fly over these landmarks, with one traveler noting, “the views of the red rocks are breathtaking especially after snowfall.”

From there, the flight loops over Red Rock State Park, where Oak Creek, Schuerman Mountain, and Pyramid Rock are on view. Flying eye-level with Cathedral Rock, the guide explains that this is one of the only ways to truly appreciate its grandeur. Seeing the Chapel of the Holy Cross and the Praying Hands from the air makes their prominence even more striking.

The route then takes you past Bell Rock, a favorite for hikers, and the Broken Arrow Trail, featuring Chicken Point and Submarine Rock—both notable for their distinctive shapes and popularity among climbers. The guide describes these formations, adding context that enriches the visual experience. Many reviewers raved about how close the helicopter gets, allowing excellent photo opportunities.

The tour continues over Courthouse Butte, over 1,000 feet tall, which draws climbers and base jumpers alike. Flying past Snoopy Rock, the Tea Kettle, Eagle Rock, and the Cowpies, you’ll see Sedona’s whimsical natural sculptures. As you glide over Grasshopper Point, a favorite swimming spot, you’ll get a sense of the area’s outdoor appeal.

Midway, the pilot points out Midgely Bridge, an elegant arch bridge that’s significant locally. From there, the flight heads toward Wilson Mountain, offering views of Steamboat Rock, Ship Rock, and Oak Creek Canyon—a deep, spring-fed canyon that runs year-round.

The next highlights include flying over the mouth of Oak Creek Canyon, with its seasonal waterfalls and towering rock pillars. You’ll also see Ship Rock, the Fin, and a canyon full of rock formations, revealing Sedona’s geological complexity.

The Thunder Mountain Trailhead marks one of the most striking vistas with Coffee Pot Rock, Soldiers Pass, and Sphinx Rock. The iconic Devil’s Bridge, a natural stone arch, comes into view from above, giving you a new appreciation of its scale and beauty. The Seven Canyons golf course provides a surprising touch of civilization amidst the wilderness.

The most memorable part of the tour is flying through Secret Canyon and past Secret Mountain, areas accessible only by extensive hiking—seeing them from the air offers a rare glimpse into Sedona’s untouched wilderness. Along the way, the helicopter swoops over Bear Sign Canyon, revealing some of the most pristine scenery in the region. As you descend into Boynton Canyon, you fly past Sinagua cliff dwellings, evidence of ancient inhabitants, making the experience both scenic and cultural.

Next, the route continues through Long Canyon, with its own set of cliff dwellings and impressive rock formations. Flying past Mescal Mesa, home to the Birthing Cave, adds another layer of hiking allure. The flight then takes you over Doe Mountain, an excellent vantage point for views of Sedona’s iconic red rocks.

Finally, the Lower Chimney Rock Trail offers ever-changing perspectives of Chimney Rock, transforming into the three fingers from the air, adding a fun visual twist. As the tour winds down, you’ll fly back over Schuerman Mountain and get sweeping views of the entire red rock landscape—a fitting end to a memorable journey.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

All the stops are carefully selected to show off Sedona’s best features, not just from the ground but from a perspective that often can’t be matched. Flying over ancient cliff dwellings and wilderness areas that are only accessible on foot provides a sense of discovery. The small group size means you don’t feel like just another tourist; you feel like a guest in Sedona’s sky, with a pilot who is both skilled and eager to share knowledge.

The Experience: Comfort, Safety, and Personal Touches

The helicopter is equipped with noise-canceling headsets with microphones, so communication with your pilot and fellow travelers is clear. The seats face forward, giving unobstructed views of the landscape below. The air-conditioned vehicle that transports you to and from the airport adds comfort, especially in the hot Arizona sun.

Most reviewers noted the professionalism and friendliness of the pilots. One described their pilot, “Josh,” as knowledgeable and accommodating, working with them to reschedule due to weather and making the experience smooth and enjoyable. Many mention the safety measures and the friendly crew as highlights.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $438.30 per person, this isn’t the cheapest activity in Sedona. However, when you consider the personalized service, quality of the views, and the unique access to remote landmarks, it offers good value. Many travelers highlight how close they got to the formations and how their guides made the experience memorable with insightful commentary. If you’re someone who values aerial photography, breathtaking vistas, or simply an unforgettable adventure, this trip delivers.

Who Would Enjoy This?

This tour suits adventure-minded travelers who want to see Sedona’s highlights from above, especially those interested in geology, ancient ruins, or stunning landscapes. It’s ideal for those who appreciate small, personalized tours and are comfortable with a moderate amount of helicopter time. It’s also a great bucket list experience for first-timers looking for a “once-in-a-lifetime” view of Sedona.

Final thoughts

The Secret Wilderness helicopter tour combines spectacular scenery, expert guides, and a sense of adventure that makes it stand out among Sedona’s many sightseeing options. Expect breathtaking views of red rocks, canyons, and ancient dwellings, all from a vantage point few get to experience. While it’s an investment, the memories you’ll take away—of flying over Secret Canyon and flying past Cathedral Rock—are priceless.

If you’re after an authentic, personal, and visually stunning way to experience Sedona’s landscapes, this helicopter tour is a fantastic choice. It’s best suited for those who want a premium viewing experience and don’t mind sharing the sky with just a handful of fellow travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the helicopter tour?
The flight lasts approximately 30 minutes, giving you ample time to see many of Sedona’s most famous formations from above.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll see Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Secret Canyon, Boynton Canyon, Devil’s Bridge, and many more. The tour covers over 45 miles of the scenic landscape.

Is the group size small?
Yes, the helicopter holds a maximum of five passengers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the helicopter ride, noise-reducing headsets with microphones, and all seating faces forward for optimal views.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. The helicopter is air-conditioned, but temperatures can vary, so dress accordingly.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to weather are fully refunded if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to check with the provider for age restrictions or weight limits.

How early should I book?
Most bookings are made about 14 days in advance, especially in peak seasons.

Will I get good photos?
Absolutely. The helicopter’s proximity to formations and the clear view from all seats make it very camera-friendly.

Is there a weight limit?
Yes, the total weight per passenger should not exceed 400 lbs, but individual weights are not specified.

In essence, this helicopter tour offers a chance to see Sedona’s famed red rocks from a fresh angle. It’s a special experience that combines stunning visuals, knowledgeable guides, and a touch of adventure—perfect for those wanting to make their Sedona visit truly unforgettable.