Virgin Utah isn’t just a scenic destination; it’s a natural playground that lends itself perfectly to helicopter tours. The areas around Zion National Park, with its towering rock formations, winding river valleys, and wilderness areas like Canaan Mountain, are best appreciated from above. We especially love the Zion National Park: 10- or 20-Minute Scenic Helicopter Tour because it offers a quick, breathtaking overview of Zion’s most iconic sights, perfect if you’re short on time but still want a glimpse of its stunning landscape.
If you’re craving a more in-depth experience, the Zion National Park and Canaan Cliffs: Helicopter Tour takes you farther afield, over wilderness areas and into the Kolob Canyons, offering a richer aerial adventure. For the most comprehensive view, the Zion National Park, Canaan Cliffs: Extended Helicopter Tour delivers a full-circle experience of Zion, Canaan Mountain, and beyond, flying for nearly an hour over 100 miles of rugged terrain. Whether you want a quick peek or an extended flight, Virgin Utah’s helicopter tours are a fantastic way to see Zion from a new perspective.
1. Zion National Park: 10- or 20-Minute Scenic Helicopter Tour
At the top of our list is this short but spectacular helicopter ride that gives you the essence of Zion’s grandeur in just 10 or 20 minutes. Prices start at $125 per person, making it an accessible way to see Zion’s Virgin River valley and the West Temple from the air. The tour includes views of Crater Hill Volcano, a notable geological feature that isn’t visible from the ground.
This experience is perfect for travelers who want a quick, stunning overview of Zion without committing to a longer flight. The pilot offers an informative narration, pointing out landmarks like the South-West side of Zion, which is often missed from ground tours. The 10-minute option is ideal if your schedule is tight, while the 20-minute flight provides a slightly more expansive view. Reviewers give it a high rating of 4.9 out of 5, praising the breathtaking scenery and knowledgeable pilots. It’s a solid pick for first-timers or those with limited time who still want to see Zion’s best features from above.
Bottom Line: A short, scenic flight that captures Zion’s iconic landscape at an affordable price, perfect for travelers who want a quick but memorable experience.
2. Zion National Park and Canaan Cliffs: Helicopter Tour
Taking a step up in duration and scope, this 30-minute tour combines the majesty of Zion with the rugged beauty of the Canaan Mountain Wilderness. At $299 per person, it’s an investment in a more comprehensive aerial view. The tour covers 55 miles and takes you over Zion’s main attractions, including the stunning Kolob Canyon area, which is often overlooked by ground visitors.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to see Zion’s impressive landscapes along with the less-visited wilderness areas. The flight is designed to highlight the West Zion region, revealing hidden valleys and dramatic cliffs that can’t be appreciated from the ground. Guests consistently comment on the impressive scenery and the pilot’s ability to point out geological features and wilderness areas. It’s particularly suited for travelers eager to get a more extensive overview without the time commitment of longer flights, offering a good balance of value and experience.
Bottom Line: A mid-length helicopter ride that expands your view of Zion beyond the typical spots, ideal for those who want a richer aerial experience.
3. Zion National Park, Canaan Cliffs: Extended Helicopter Tour
For the ultimate Zion aerial adventure, this 55-minute tour circles the entire park and includes a rare extended loop through the Canaan Mountain Wilderness. Priced at $499 per person, it offers a comprehensive journey over 100 miles of some of the most breathtaking scenery in the area. This tour is perfect for dedicated photography buffs or anyone who wants to truly soak in Zion’s awe-inspiring rock formations and wilderness from the air.
What makes this tour special is the ability to see magnificent views of Zion and Canaan Mountain Wilderness in one extended flight, along with informative commentary about the park’s geology and landscape evolution. One recent review described it as “an unforgettable experience,” noting that the views of rock spires, deep canyons, and wilderness are unlike anything seen from the ground. It’s best suited for travelers who want a fuller, more detailed aerial perspective and are comfortable with a longer, more expensive tour.
Bottom Line: The most complete helicopter experience in Zion, offering a full 55-minute flight that covers the park’s most stunning landscapes and wilderness areas.
How to Choose the Right Helicopter Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, available time, and what you hope to see. The short scenic tour is perfect if you want a quick highlight reel, while the mid-length and extended tours suit those seeking a deeper experience. If you’re a photography enthusiast or love comprehensive adventures, the longer flight is worth the extra cost.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons in spring and fall. Think about your fitness level—longer flights can be more physically demanding—and whether you prefer a quick overview or an in-depth aerial journey. Remember, Zion’s panoramic views are best enjoyed from above, so investing in a helicopter tour can greatly enrich your visit.
To sum it up, Virgin Utah offers a variety of helicopter tours that cater to different interests and schedules. For a quick taste of Zion’s stunning landscape, the 10- or 20-minute scenic flight is hard to beat. If you want a more detailed look at Zion’s wilderness, the 30-minute or 55-minute tours provide spectacular views and a memorable experience. Whichever you choose, booking early ensures you’ll secure your spot for one of these unforgettable aerial adventures.