Exploring Zion National Park by Helicopter: A 55-Mile Aerial Adventure
Difficulty
easy
Duration
30 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness and mobility levels, including young children and older adults.
Overview
Take to the skies for a 55-mile helicopter tour showcasing Zion National Park’s towering red cliffs and wild wilderness areas. Discover the park’s geology and history from a breathtaking aerial perspective just minutes from Springdale.
Exploring Zion National Park by Helicopter: A 55-Mile Aerial Adventure
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Launching from the Riverside Heliport just minutes from Springdale, this 30-minute helicopter flight offers a rare vantage point over the iconic sandstone cliffs and rugged wilderness of Zion National Park. As the rotors hum to life, the helicopter ascends along the park’s northern edge where Smith Mesa and the jagged ridges of Zion’s famed Kolob Canyons come into clear view. The red rock formations, carved by millions of years of geology, stretch out like fingers pointing skyward, their textures and colors shifting in the desert sunlight.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Book Early for Peak Seasons
Spring and fall fill quickly; reserve your spot in advance to secure preferred times with clear skies.
Weight Restrictions Apply
Passengers over 250 lbs may need to purchase an additional seat; weigh-in required prior to flight for safety.
Arrive 15 Minutes Early
Check-in promptly at the heliport located at 3050 East UT-9 to ensure a smooth boarding process.
Bring a Camera with a Polarizing Filter
Reduce glare from rock surfaces and enhance red rock hues in your aerial photos.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Desert bighorn sheep spotted on canyon ledges
- Golden eagles soaring along canyon thermals
History
The Navajo and Paiute tribes originally inhabited this region, drawing upon the canyon resources for shelter and sustenance.
Conservation
The tour avoids flying over Zion's core to minimize noise pollution and protect the park's fragile ecosystem.
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Adventure Hotspots in Springdale
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from bright sunlight reflecting off canyon walls during midday flights.
summer specific
Light Jacket
Mornings and evenings can be chilly near the heliport; layer accordingly.
spring specific
Camera with Zoom Lens
Capture detailed aerial shots of cliffs and wilderness expanses from the cockpit.
Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for walking around the heliport and brief outdoor time between flights.