Virgin River is a treasure trove for travelers seeking a variety of memorable experiences. Its stunning scenery, vast wilderness, and accessible location make it an ideal hub for outdoor adventures and exclusive tours. Whether you’re an avid skywatcher, thrill-seeker, or history lover, Virgin River offers something for all. For instance, the Stargazing in the New International Dark Sky of Zion National Park tour is perfect for night sky enthusiasts, giving you a chance to marvel at Saturn’s rings with high-powered telescopes and zero-gravity loungers. Meanwhile, the Zion helicopter rides provide breathtaking aerial views that are hard to match, offering a perspective only accessible from above. These experiences highlight Virgin River’s appeal as a destination with diverse, high-quality options.
In this guide, I’ll introduce you to the 8 best tours in Virgin River, covering everything from scenic flights to active pursuits like rock climbing and river tubing. Each offers a distinctive way to explore Zion’s extraordinary landscape, helping you find the perfect fit for your interests and schedule.
1. Stargazing in the New International Dark Sky of ZNP
At number 1, the Stargazing in the New International Dark Sky of Zion National Park is a standout experience. This small-group tour offers an evening of marvels in Utah’s pristine night skies, where light pollution is virtually nonexistent. You’ll meet your guide at a designated spot and walk a short distance to a carefully chosen dark-sky location. Once there, you’ll get familiar with the constellations as darkness falls, then settle into zero-gravity pods and binoculars, including Celestron Outland X Binoculars, for optimal viewing. Powerful telescopes are also on hand to help you spot planets, galaxies, and even Saturn’s rings.
What makes this tour special is the combination of high-tech equipment and expert guidance. Tour guides are knowledgeable and ready to answer questions about celestial objects, transforming a simple star-gazing session into an educational experience. The reviews are glowing, with many describing it as “very educational, entertaining, and memorable,” and praising the opportunity to see Saturn and its rings. This activity is ideal for anyone curious about the universe and seeking a peaceful, awe-inspiring night under the stars.
Bottom Line: If you want an accessible, immersive, and well-equipped night sky experience, this tour offers a rare chance to connect with the cosmos in Zion’s dark skies.
2. 35 Mile – Zion National Park Panoramic Helicopter Flight
Number 2 on our list is the 35 Mile Zion National Park Panoramic Helicopter Flight. For around $199, this 20-minute helicopter ride provides an incredible bird’s-eye view of Zion’s most iconic spots. You’ll depart from a private heliport near Springdale and soar north over Smith Mesa and Zion Canyon, with your pilot sharing stories about the land’s geology and history. The tour covers key landmarks such as the Red Butte and Kolob Canyons, giving you a perspective you simply can’t get from the ground.
What makes this tour stand out is its efficiency and intimacy. You’ll see Zion’s towering cliffs, colorful rock formations, and rugged terrain from a vantage point that enhances your understanding of the park’s scale and beauty. Many reviews praise the pilot’s professionalism and the clarity of the sights, with one reviewer calling it “thrilling and relaxing,” and noting they saw Saturn’s rings through the telescopes afterward—a nice touch that rounds out a stellar experience.
Bottom Line: This flight is perfect if you want a quick, scenic overview of Zion’s highlights, especially if you’re short on time but want a memorable aerial adventure.
3. 100 Mile Zion National Park Panoramic Helicopter Flight
Next up is the 100 Mile Zion National Park Panoramic Helicopter Flight, a 50-minute tour that offers an extensive look at Zion and its surrounding areas. This is the most comprehensive helicopter experience on our list, designed for those who want to truly appreciate Zion’s vastness. You’ll enjoy rare aerial views of Kolob Canyons, Red Butte mountain range, and even the possibility of landing on a butte for a short hike or picnic—optional upgrades available.
What makes this tour exceptional is its small-group format, capped at six participants, ensuring personalized attention and plenty of photo opportunities. During the flight, you’ll gain insights into Zion’s geology and landscape that are hard to match. Reviewers appreciate the “professional pilot and the stunning views,” with some noting it’s the best way they’ve experienced Zion.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a longer, more intimate helicopter tour with the option to land and explore, this is a top choice.
4. 55 Mile – Helicopter Tour Around Zion National Park
For those who want to cover a lot of ground in a short time, the 55 Mile Helicopter Tour Around Zion National Park is ideal. The 30-minute flight whisks you over Zion, Kolob Canyon, Smith Mesa, and the Canaan Mountain Wilderness Area. It’s a great way to see Zion’s varied terrain without the crowds on land. This tour departs from the same private heliport used for other flights, with many start times to suit your schedule.
Guests often comment on the “breathtaking views” and the pilot’s ability to point out interesting features along the way. While the shorter duration means less time in the air, it’s still a worthwhile experience for those wanting quick access to Zion’s highlights. The reviews highlight how spectacular the views are, with one calling it “unmatchable” and “best seen from the air.”
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers with limited time who still want a comprehensive aerial overview of Zion’s best sights.
5. Float Zion Virgin River Tubing Adventures
Number 5 is the Float Zion Virgin River Tubing Adventures—a relaxing 1 hour and 15-minute float that’s perfect for families or anyone wanting a gentle river experience. You’ll float down the Virgin River, enjoying spectacular panoramic views of Zion while feeling the cool water against your skin. The tour includes transportation back to the starting point, making it easy and stress-free.
What makes this adventure appealing is its combination of serenity and scenery. Reviewers note that it’s “peaceful,” with some saying they enjoyed the “beautiful views” and the opportunity to relax after active days. It’s suitable for ages 12 and up, making it accessible to most active travelers. Be prepared for some minor paddling as you navigate the river’s small rapids—more work than a lazy float, but still very enjoyable.
Bottom Line: If you’re seeking a peaceful, scenic way to see Zion from the Virgin River, this tubing trip is a perfect choice for a low-intensity, memorable outing.
6. Rock Climbing Near Zion
At number 6, the Rock Climbing Near Zion tour offers a 4-hour private climbing experience. This is ideal for those looking for a physically active, personalized adventure. The guides prioritize your experience, aiming to get everyone to the top of a climb, with flexibility on location to suit your skill level. Whether you’re a beginner or more experienced climber, guides will tailor the route and pace to your needs.
What stands out is the focus on individual achievement and safety. Reviewers mention guides being “friendly and knowledgeable,” and the personal photos sent afterward add a nice touch. This tour is best suited for those who want to challenge themselves and enjoy a unique, hands-on activity in Zion’s rugged terrain. The price of $200 per person reflects its private, tailored nature.
Bottom Line: For active travelers eager to climb Zion’s iconic rock formations, this tour delivers a customized and rewarding experience.
7. Zion Jeep Tour with Exclusive Access to Zion Cliffside Point
Number 7 is the Zion Jeep Tour with Exclusive Access to Zion Cliffside Point. This 1 hour and 15-minute private off-road journey takes you to stunning viewpoints like Zion Lava Mesa Ridge and Zion Cliffside Point, where you’ll get incredible vistas of the Virgin River Valley, Canaan Mountains, and Smithsonian Butte. The guide will share insights about the area’s geology and history, making it both scenic and educational.
Guests appreciate the “knowledgeable guide” and the private nature of the trip, which allows for personalized stops and photo opportunities. The tour is especially good for travelers who want to explore Zion’s less accessible spots without the hassle of hiking or crowds. It’s priced at $85 per person, offering excellent value for a personalized experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a quick yet in-depth look at Zion’s most stunning vistas with the comfort of private transport.
8. Exclusive Access Zion Jeep Tour including Grafton Ghost Town
Finally, the Exclusive Access Zion Jeep Tour including Grafton Ghost Town offers a 2.5-hour journey combining stunning scenery with history. This tour takes you off-road to Zion Lava Ridge Mesa, Zion Cliffside Point, and then to the historic Grafton Ghost Town, where you can learn about the area’s past and see abandoned buildings. The tour’s intimate size and exclusive access make it special for history enthusiasts and explorers alike.
Reviewers highlight the “spectacular views” and the friendly driver George, who shared stories about Grafton’s past. It’s an excellent option for travelers wanting a mix of scenic beauty and cultural history, making it both educational and adventurous. The price is $125 per person, reflecting its comprehensive nature.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those interested in Zion’s history and scenery, especially if you want a longer, more varied trip.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Virgin River
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and what kind of experience excites you most. For night sky lovers, the Stargazing tour offers a peaceful, educational night under the stars. If aerial views are your priority, the 50-minute helicopter or 35-mile flight will give you stunning perspectives of Zion’s landscape. For a more active outing, Zion’s rock climbing or jeep tours are perfect.
If you prefer relaxing and scenic, the river tubing adventure provides gentle float fun without much exertion. Meanwhile, history buffs will enjoy the Grafton Ghost Town trip, combining scenery with stories of the past.
Booking early is recommended, especially for helicopter or special private tours, which tend to fill quickly, particularly in peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Virgin River offers a wide range of tours, from awe-inspiring aerial flights to tranquil river floats and adventurous climbs. For breathtaking views, the helicopter options are hard to beat; for a relaxing day, the Virgin River tubing is perfect. If you’re after a mix of exploration and history, the jeep tours deliver.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or a curious traveler, these experiences promise to make your Virgin River visit unforgettable. Consider your interests and schedule, then book early to secure your spot—these tours fill up fast during peak seasons. Whatever your choice, you’ll leave with stories to tell and memories to cherish.