Colorado Vertical & Royal Gorge Helitours Adventure - Colorado Springs

Colorado Vertical & Royal Gorge Helitours Adventure

Colorado Springseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

30 minutes – 1 hour

Fitness Level

No special fitness required as the experience is seated in the helicopter with minimal physical activity.

Overview

Take to the skies above Colorado’s Royal Gorge and historic mining districts on an unforgettable private helicopter tour. Discover breathtaking views and unique wildlife from a new perspective.

Details

Experience the thrill of soaring over some of Colorado’s most iconic landscapes with Colorado Vertical and Royal Gorge Helitours. This private helicopter tour offers a rare bird’s-eye view of the majestic Royal Gorge, a breathtaking canyon carved by the Arkansas River, as well as a glimpse of the historic Cripple Creek Mining District. Flying above alpine lakes, rugged canyons, and dense forests, guests are treated to a spectacular display of nature’s grandeur paired with slow-moving wildlife sightings from the sky. Whether it’s the jagged cliffs of the gorge or the expansive views of the surrounding mountains, this adventure invites travelers to discover the beauty of Colorado’s mountainous region from a unique perspective. Ideal for thrill-seekers, nature lovers, photographers, and those wanting a memorable experience beyond traditional hiking or driving tours, these helitours provide both excitement and serenity with personalized service and knowledgeable pilots. Encounter dramatic landscapes and watch the changing terrain beneath you while learning about the region’s natural features and history. This is a remarkable, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore Colorado’s wilderness and landmarks from above with unparalleled comfort and style.

Adventure Tips

Book Early for Best Flight Times

Reserve your tour well in advance to secure popular time slots, especially during peak seasons.

Bring a Camera with a Fast Shutter

To capture sharp aerial photos, use a camera with a quick shutter speed to minimize motion blur.

Dress in Layers

Mountain air can be cool even in summer, so wear layers for comfort during the flight.

Prepare for Motion Sensitivity

If you are prone to motion sickness, consider taking precautions before the flight.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • The secluded Phantom Canyon Road for scenic drives after your flight
  • The Cripple Creek Heritage Center for local mining history

Wildlife

  • Bighorn sheep
  • Golden eagles

History

The Royal Gorge area was developed in the late 19th century as a mining and railroad hub, playing a significant role in Colorado's expansion.

Conservation

Efforts are underway to preserve the delicate ecosystems around Royal Gorge, including minimizing noise pollution and habitat disruption from tourism.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Mid-morning
Late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Above Royal Gorge Bridge
  • Cripple Creek Mining District from air
  • Arkansas River bends

What to Photograph

Canyon landscapes
Mountain wildlife
Historic mining structures

Recommended Gear

Polarized Sunglasses

Essential

Reduces glare and enhances view through the helicopter windows.

summer specific

Camera with Zoom Lens

Essential

Capture detailed photos of distant landscapes and wildlife.

Windbreaker Jacket

Keeps you comfortable against cool mountain winds during early season flights.

spring specific

Travel Motion Sickness Remedies

Helpful to minimize discomfort for those sensitive to helicopter motion.