Grand Canyon Helicopter Trips That Let You See Everything

Overview of Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours

The Grand Canyon, with its impressive landscape and geological formations, spans over 1,904 square miles. The South Rim, accessible from cities like Phoenix and Sedona, offers some of the most stunning views of the canyon. Although Las Vegas is closer to the West Rim, travelers can still reach the South Rim by plane, followed by a helicopter tour.

Types of South Rim Helicopter Tours

There are primarily two helicopter tour durations available at the South Rim:

1. 30-minute flight: This shorter tour is more budget-friendly and covers significant landmarks, including a flight to the North Rim and back, passing over the Dragoon Corridor—the widest and deepest part of the canyon.

2. 50-minute flight: This extended tour offers a more comprehensive experience, covering three-fourths of the National Park. It starts at the Grand Canyon National Park Airport, heads to the eastern edge, crosses over to the North Rim, and returns via the Dragoon Corridor.

Additionally, there is a special package that combines a 30-minute helicopter flight with a 2-hour Jeep tour, enhancing the ground-level exploration of the park. This option is particularly popular for its sunset tour, providing spectacular photo opportunities at Grandview Point and other scenic spots.

Choosing the Right Aircraft

Two main types of helicopters are used for these tours:

• Bell Ranger: Generally used for the more economical flights.
• EcoStar 130: Offers a premium experience with enhanced comfort, larger personal space, wraparound windshields, stadium-style seating, and quieter engines.

It's advisable to opt for the EcoStar 130 for the best experience, despite the higher cost.

Booking Tips and Best Practices

Due to the popularity of these tours, especially during the peak summer tourist season, it is crucial to book at least a week in advance. Last-minute bookings might result in missing out on this incredible experience. Here are a few additional tips:

• Camera: Ensure your camera is fully charged; the photo opportunities are endless.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable, non-reflective clothing to avoid glare in photos.
• Language Needs: Request a pre-recorded narration in your native language if necessary, to enhance your understanding of the tour.

Why Choose a Helicopter Tour?

Helicopter tours provide a unique perspective that ground-based tours cannot match. According to the National Park Service, the Grand Canyon receives over six million visitors annually, but only a small percentage experience it from the air. A helicopter tour offers an unparalleled view of the park’s vastness and geological diversity, making it a truly memorable part of your visit.

Environmental Considerations

While enjoying aerial tours, it's also important to consider the environmental impact. Operators like the ones using EcoStar helicopters are taking steps to reduce noise and fuel emissions, helping to preserve the natural tranquility of the Grand Canyon.

Conclusion

Whether you choose a quick aerial tour or combine it with a Jeep adventure, a helicopter tour of the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is an unforgettable experience. With careful planning and the right choice of tour, you can ensure a comfortable, breathtaking adventure that offers a deeper appreciation of this majestic natural wonder. For more information on planning your visit, check the official Grand Canyon National Park website.