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Adventure Collective Journal

Soar Above Zion: The Ultimate 100-Mile Panoramic Helicopter Flight Experience

Soar Above Zion: The Ultimate 100-Mile Panoramic Helicopter Flight Experience

Experience Zion National Park as few ever do—soaring above its breathtaking sandstone cliffs on a 100-mile panoramic helicopter tour that reveals hidden wilderness and geological wonders. This immersive flight circles the park’s edges, offering unparalleled views of Kolob Canyons and Canaan Mountain Wilderness.

Virgin, Utah
50 minutes
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Book Morning or Late Afternoon Flights

To capture the best light and minimize heat shimmer affecting visibility, schedule your flight early or near sunset.

Weight Restrictions Apply

Passengers over 250 lbs must purchase an additional seat for balance and safety; maximum per passenger is 375 lbs.

Bring a Good Camera

Use a camera with fast shutter speed to capture sharp images through the helicopter windows.

Dress Comfortably

Wear layered clothing to adjust to temperature changes during the flight and at the landing site if you opt for the butte landing upgrade.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Canaan Mountain Wilderness rarely seen from the ground, showcasing unique rock formations
  • Kolob Canyons’ remote reaches accessible by aerial view but often missed on standard park hikes

Wildlife

  • Golden eagles soaring in high air currents
  • Desert bighorn sheep navigating steep cliffs

Conservation Note

Flight paths avoid the park’s interior to minimize noise and environmental disturbance, preserving natural habitats below.

Zion National Park’s iconic cliffs formed from Navajo sandstone deposited nearly 180 million years ago, revealing a rich geological archive beneath the desert sky.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Morning light, Late afternoon, Golden hour
Key viewpoints:
  • Above Kolob Canyons
  • Edge of Red Butte mountain range
  • Over Canaan Mountain Wilderness
Subjects to capture:Expansive rock formations, Cliffside wildlife, Layered desert landscapes

What to Bring

Camera with Fast Shutter SpeedEssential

Essential for capturing sharp aerial images through windows with minimal motion blur.

SunglassesEssential

Protects eyes from glare during bright daylight flights.

Layered ClothingEssential

Light Jacket

Useful especially if you upgrade to the butte landing for brief outdoor time.

Common Questions

Can I fly directly over Zion National Park’s landmarks?

No, due to park regulations, low-altitude passenger aircraft are not permitted to fly directly over Zion National Park. The tour circles the park edges to provide spectacular views without disturbing the protected airspace.

Is the helicopter flight safe for children and infants?

Infants under two must sit on an adult’s lap, but the experience is suitable for all ages. However, young children should be prepared for the noise and confined space inside the helicopter.

What is the maximum weight allowed per passenger?

The maximum weight per passenger is 375 pounds (170 kilograms). Passengers over 250 pounds are required to purchase an additional seat for safety and balance.

Can I upgrade the flight to include a landing and hike?

Yes, there is an option to upgrade the flight to include a landing on one of Zion’s buttes, allowing time for a short hike or picnic opportunity.

How early should I arrive before my scheduled flight?

Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled departure for check-in and safety briefing.

What happens if the minimum passenger count is not met?

If fewer than five passengers book the flight, you’ll be offered an alternate date, time, or a full refund.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

50 minutes

Location

Virgin, Utah

Difficulty

easy

Fitness Level

No strenuous activity required; suitable for all fitness levels

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Virgin?

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

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