Adventure Collective Journal

National Park Guide delivers travel features and guided trip insights for exploring America's national parks, from epic hikes to unforgettable tours.

← Back to Journal

Adventure Collective Journal

Experience Zion National Park’s Majesty: A 55-Mile Helicopter Tour

Experience Zion National Park’s Majesty: A 55-Mile Helicopter Tour

Soar over Zion National Park’s towering cliffs and vast wilderness on a 55-mile helicopter tour departing near Springdale. Discover sweeping vistas of Kolob Canyons and Canaan Mountain that redefine adventure from above.

Virgin, Utah
30 minutes
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Book Early to Secure Your Spot

Tours require a minimum of five passengers and often fill quickly during peak seasons; reserve well in advance.

Arrive Early for Check-In

Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure to complete check-in and weight/balance procedures.

Dress in Layers

High desert mornings can be cool but the helicopter cabin warms quickly; layering helps you stay comfortable.

Prepare for Weight Restrictions

Passengers over 250 lbs may need to purchase an additional seat; notify the operator beforehand.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Canaan Mountain Wilderness’s lesser-known ridgelines visible only from the air
  • Smith Mesa’s isolated desert pockets with stunning seasonal blooms

Wildlife

  • Desert bighorn sheep along cliff faces
  • Golden eagles soaring near canyons

Conservation Note

The tour avoids flying low over the park to minimize disturbance to wildlife and preserve the natural quiet of wilderness areas.

Zion’s sandstone cliffs record over 200 million years of geological history, shaped by shifting seas and ancient rivers that eventually formed the Colorado Plateau.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Morning for clear skies, Golden hour for warm light, Midday for vivid colors
Key viewpoints:
  • Over Kolob Canyons’ intricate rock formations
  • Alongside Smith Mesa’s rugged terrain
  • Above Canaan Mountain’s sheer cliffs
Subjects to capture:Red sandstone cliffs, Desert wildlife, Expansive wilderness landscapes

What to Bring

Sun ProtectionEssential

Sunglasses and sunscreen shield you from intense desert sun during the flight.

Camera with Zoom LensEssential

A zoom lens helps capture detailed aerial views without window glare.

Light Layered ClothingEssential

Layering keeps you comfortable amid fluctuating temperatures on takeoff and landing.

Closed-Toe Shoes

Secure footwear recommended for ground stability at the heliport.

Common Questions

Can I book this helicopter tour if I weigh over 250 pounds?

Passengers over 250 pounds need to purchase an additional seat for balance and safety reasons; this is payable directly to the operator on the day of the flight.

Is this tour suitable for children and infants?

Infants under two must sit on an adult’s lap and are not issued their own seat; children over two require a paid ticket.

What happens if the tour doesn’t reach the minimum number of passengers?

If fewer than five passengers book the tour for a given time, you will be offered an alternate date or a full refund.

Are there any health restrictions for passengers?

Passengers with poor cardiovascular health or heart conditions are advised not to take the flight due to altitude and stress factors.

Does the helicopter fly directly over Zion National Park?

No, federal regulations prohibit low-altitude passenger flights directly over the park; the route skirts the perimeter providing spectacular views in compliance.

How do I get to the departure location?

The heliport is located at 3050 East UT-9 in Virgin, about 10 minutes from Springdale and the Zion National Park entrance.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

30 minutes

Location

Virgin, Utah

Difficulty

easy

Fitness Level

No physical fitness required; suitable for all levels, including those with mobility concerns.

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Virgin?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

Check Availability & Book Now