Why Not Take A Grand Canyon National Park Helicopter Tour?

Overview of Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours

The Grand Canyon, recognized as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, offers landscapes that are best appreciated from an aerial view. Helicopter tours provide a spectacular perspective of the canyon’s vastness, intricate rock formations, and vibrant colors that are not as visible from the ground.

South Rim Tours

Helicopter tours from the South Rim depart from Grand Canyon National Park Airport in Tusayan, Arizona. These tours offer two main flight options:

1. Standard Flight: Covers central regions of the canyon, providing views of landmarks like Grand Canyon Village and the Colorado River.
2. Extended Flight: Lasts nearly an hour and includes additional sights such as Imperial Point, the Zuni Corridor, and the Painted Desert. This tour also flies through the Dragoon Corridor, the deepest part of the canyon.

West Rim Tours

Departing from airfields near Las Vegas, the West Rim helicopter tours typically include a 45-minute flight to the rim. Unique features of the West Rim tours include:

• Landing Tours: Unlike other parts of the park, helicopters can land on the canyon floor at the West Rim. Many tours offer a champagne picnic on the canyon floor.
• Skywalk Access: Tours can include VIP access to the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass cantilevered bridge standing 4,000 feet above the canyon floor and extending 70 feet beyond the rim.

Key Attractions

• Hoover Dam and Lake Mead: On the way to the West Rim, flights often pass over these iconic landmarks.
• Colorado River Float Trip: Some tours combine a helicopter flight with a smooth-water float trip down the Colorado River.
• Cultural Sites: Visits to Eagle Point, Hualapai Ranch, Guano Point, and the Indian Cultural Center are often part of the itinerary.

Choosing the Right Helicopter

Most deluxe tours utilize the EcoStar 130 helicopter, known for its large, comfortable passenger cabin, climate control, wraparound windshields, and stadium-style seating. These features significantly enhance the sightseeing experience, making the EcoStar 130 a preferred choice for those seeking comfort and unobstructed views.

Booking Your Tour

For the best rates, book directly through the tour operator’s website. This not only ensures that you receive the lowest possible price but also guarantees that your reservation is secure. Many operators offer discounts for online bookings, making it more affordable to experience this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Why a Helicopter Tour?

Here are a few compelling reasons to consider a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon:

• Comprehensive Views: Cover more ground and see parts of the canyon that are inaccessible by foot.
• Unique Perspective: Gain a bird’s-eye view of the canyon’s architecture and geology.
• Time Efficient: Explore vast areas of the canyon in a fraction of the time it would take to hike.

Conclusion

A helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon offers an unparalleled way to experience one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders. Whether you choose a flight over the South Rim or the West Rim, the breathtaking views and the thrill of flying over this majestic landscape make for an unforgettable adventure. Don’t miss the chance to see the Grand Canyon from this extraordinary vantage point.