Virginia, Utah, is a prime spot for exploring Zion National Park, thanks to its proximity to dramatic rock formations and expansive wilderness. While hiking and driving are obvious ways to see the park, a helicopter tour offers a unique perspective that’s hard to match from the ground. With options that vary from quick 10-minute flights to extensive 55-minute loops, there’s something for every thrill-seeker and scenery lover. These aerial tours are a fantastic way to capture the vast scale and stunning geology of Zion without the strain of a long hike, especially if you’re limited on time or prefer a bird’s-eye view.
Be aware that helicopters don’t fly directly over Zion National Park itself—federal regulations restrict that—but many tours circle around the park’s outskirts, providing impressive views of major landmarks like the Virgin River valley, West Temple, and Canaan Mountain Wilderness. When choosing your tour, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend in the air, and whether you’re interested in a quick snapshot or a more in-depth aerial experience.
Quick Overview
Below, you’ll find three top-rated helicopter tours around Zion Utah, each with distinctive features: from a short, breathtaking 10-minute flight to a 55-minute extended loop over Zion and Canaan Mountain Wilderness. Whether you’re after a cost-effective introduction to Zion’s vistas or a comprehensive aerial experience, these tours offer memorable views and different levels of adventure.
1. Zion National Park: 10- or 20-Minute Scenic Helicopter Tour
At number 1 on our list, the Zion National Park: 10- or 20-Minute Scenic Helicopter Tour offers a quick but stunning glimpse of Zion’s key sights. For around $119 per person, you’ll take a 10 to 20-minute flight that showcases the Virgin River valley and the West Temple, with the option to upgrade to a longer ride.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on famous Zion landmarks like Crater Hill Volcano and the breathtaking views that are difficult to see from the ground. The pilot’s narration adds context, making this a great choice for travelers who want a taste of Zion’s grandeur without investing a lot of time. Reviews highlight the spectacular scenery and the professionalism of the pilot, with one caller describing it as “breathtaking,” despite noting that helicopter flights are only around the perimeter, not over Zion itself.
Bottom line: This tour offers excellent value for a quick, scenic overview suitable for families or first-time visitors who want a memorable introduction without breaking the bank.
2. Zion National Park and Canaan Cliffs: Helicopter Tour
Next up, the Zion National Park and Canaan Cliffs Helicopter Tour is a 30-minute journey priced at $299 per person. This flight takes you further north toward Smith Mesa and over the spectacular Kolob Canyon, providing a more comprehensive aerial view of Zion and surrounding wilderness areas.
This tour is perfect for those wanting a more immersive experience, flying over 55 miles of rugged terrain, including the Canaan Mountain Wilderness. Travelers appreciate the knowledgeable pilot and the impressive vistas, with one reviewer mentioning how Jordan, the pilot, was both entertaining and educational. It’s a good choice if you’re interested in seeing more of Zion’s varied landscapes without a multi-hour commitment.
However, some advise bringing anti-nausea medication due to the strong winds, which can make the flight a bit bumpy. The overall experience is highly rated, with comments praising the professionalism and scenic quality.
Bottom line: This tour suits travelers who want a more detailed aerial view and are comfortable with slightly longer flights that explore Zion’s broader wilderness.
3. Zion National Park, Canaan Cliffs: Extended Helicopter Tour
Finally, the Zion National Park, Canaan Cliffs: Extended Helicopter Tour offers a 55-minute flight at $499 per person, circling all of Zion and taking you on a rarely-seen loop through Canaan Mountain Wilderness. This is Zion’s most comprehensive aerial tour, covering around 100 miles of rugged terrain, with extensive views of famous rock formations and wilderness areas.
This experience is ideal for travelers who want a fuller, more detailed aerial perspective. Reviewers describe it as “phenomenal,” with the pilot Jordan providing entertaining commentary and even taking photos for their trip. The extended duration allows for a more relaxed pace and the chance to see hidden corners of Zion that are inaccessible from land. The flight’s highlight is the approach over the butte landing, which offers a true adventure feel.
If you’re looking for a luxury experience and a chance to see Zion’s landscape in its entirety, this tour stands out as the best value for those seeking an in-depth aerial adventure.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a comprehensive look at Zion’s landscape, with the added thrill of a longer, more immersive flight.
How to Choose
When selecting among these Zion helicopter tours, consider your budget, available time, and how much of the park’s scenery you want to see from the sky. A quick 10-minute scenic flight might be best for first-timers or families on a tight schedule. If you’d like a more detailed view, the 30-minute tour is a good middle ground, while the extended 55-minute flight is ideal for seasoned travelers or those eager for a full Zion aerial experience.
Booking early, especially during peak seasons, is a smart move since these tours are popular. Also, check the weather forecast — clear days lead to the best visibility—and bring your camera to capture Zion’s stunning vistas from above.
Final thoughts
In Virgin, Utah, the proximity to Zion makes helicopter tours an appealing way to see the park’s spectacular geology and vast wilderness. For a quick, budget-friendly overview, the 10- or 20-minute flight offers memorable views without much fuss. Those wanting a deeper look at Zion’s mountains and wilderness should opt for the 30-minute or extended tours, which deliver a more comprehensive experience. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a luxurious aerial adventure, the longer extended flight is unmatched.
No matter your choice, booking your helicopter tour early and preparing for the flight will ensure you enjoy this thrilling way to see Zion. These aerial views will stay with you long after you leave Virgin Utah.