Virgin River is a prime gateway to some of Utah’s most breathtaking scenery, and it’s an ideal base for exploring Zion National Park from the sky. From panoramic views to exclusive landings, these helicopter tours let you see the towering cliffs, colorful canyons, and unique rock formations that make Zion a must-visit. Whether you’re after a quick overview or a more in-depth experience, Virgin River offers options that suit different interests and budgets. We especially love the 35 Mile Zion National Park Panoramic Helicopter Flight for its quick, stunning overview, and the 100 Mile Zion National Park Panoramic Helicopter Flight for those wanting a more comprehensive bird’s-eye view.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best helicopter tours around Zion, highlighting what makes each one special. We’ll help you decide whether a short flight or an extended exploration suits your style. If you’re planning a trip to Zion, booking early is smart—these tours are popular and can fill up fast.
1. 35 Mile – Zion National Park Panoramic Helicopter Flight
For a 20-minute flight that packs a punch, the 35 Mile Zion National Park Panoramic Helicopter Flight is a fantastic choice. This tour offers a swift but breathtaking overview of Zion’s most iconic sights, covering 35 miles of the park from the air. Departing from a private heliport just minutes from Springdale, you’ll be airborne quickly, soaring north between Smith Mesa and Zion’s towering rock formations. The flight provides spectacular views of landmarks like Red Butte and Kolob Canyons, with commentary from your pilot about the land’s history and geology.
What makes this tour stand out is its intimacy and focus. It’s perfect if you want a quick, memorable experience without taking too much time out of your day. The reviews speak volumes—guests praise the thrilling yet relaxing ride and the pilot’s engaging storytelling. Many consider this a “must-do” for Zion visitors, especially given the affordable price of $199 per person.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for travelers on a tight schedule who want a high-impact view of Zion’s highlights without breaking the bank.
2. 100 Mile Zion National Park Panoramic Helicopter Flight
For those looking to see Zion in more depth, the 100 Mile Zion National Park Panoramic Helicopter Flight offers a 50-minute adventure for $499. This tour expands the view to cover more ground and includes rare perspectives of key features like Kolob Canyons and the Red Butte range. The flight is limited to just six passengers, ensuring a personalized experience, and offers the opportunity to upgrade for a butte landing—giving you time to hike or enjoy a picnic on a mountain top.
What makes this tour unique is the ability to see Zion’s grandeur from angles few land visitors ever experience. The pilot’s detailed commentary makes it both an exciting ride and an educational one. Reviews highlight the spectacular maneuverability of the helicopter and the breathtaking views. Travelers who upgrade to the landing often rave about the intimate connection to the landscape, as well as the chance to enjoy food or champagne at the top.
Bottom line: This is a great option for those wanting a more immersive and personalized experience, especially if you’re comfortable splurging on extra time and exclusivity.
3. 55 Mile – Helicopter Tour Around Zion National Park
If you want a middle ground between speed and scope, the 55 Mile Helicopter Tour provides a 30-minute flyby that covers more than just the highlights. Covering 55 miles around Zion, this tour takes you over popular sights like Kolob Canyon, Smith Mesa, and the Canaan Mountain Wilderness Area. It departs from a private heliport close to Springdale and offers several start times, making it flexible for busy schedules.
What makes this tour attractive is its balance—covering a significant part of Zion’s dramatic landscape while avoiding the crowds on land. The helicopter’s route between Zion’s major formations provides impressive views and insightful narration from the pilot. Guests generally find the experience worthwhile, with many noting how the flying distance allows for an excellent overview without the expense of longer flights.
Guests also mention that the helicopter is exceptionally maneuverable and the service is friendly and professional. With a price of $299, it offers good value for travelers who want a comprehensive glimpse of Zion without a full-length experience.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for those seeking a comfortable, scenic overview with enough time to appreciate Zion’s key features.
How to Choose the Best Zion Helicopter Tour for You
When selecting a Zion helicopter tour, consider your time constraints, budget, and how much of the park you want to see from above.** The shorter 35-mile flight is ideal if you want a quick, dramatic view without a big investment. For a more detailed, intimate experience, the 100-mile option with a potential land visit offers a unique perspective and a touch of adventure. If you prefer a balanced experience that covers more ground than the shortest tour but isn’t as lengthy as the full 100-mile flight, the 55-mile tour hits that sweet spot.
Booking early is essential, especially in peak seasons, as these tours tend to fill up fast. Check the available times and whether the tour includes upgrades like a land visit or special amenities.
Final Thoughts
Virgin River’s proximity to Zion makes it an excellent base for airborne explorations of the park’s dramatic scenery. Whether you’re after a quick overview, an up-close land landing, or a comprehensive 50-minute flight, there’s a helicopter tour to suit your taste. The 35-mile flight is perfect for a fast, affordable thrill, while the 100-mile adventure appeals to those craving a deeper connection with Zion’s landscape. The 55-mile trip strikes a balance for travelers who want more than just a quick view but less time commitment.
No matter which option you choose, these tours offer a unique perspective and a memorable way to see Zion’s towering cliffs and winding canyons. If you’re eager to elevate your Zion experience, book early and prepare for some truly breathtaking views from above.