The 2 Best Helicopter Flights & Tours in Ketchikan
Ketchikan is a haven for lovers of wildlife, rugged landscapes, and breathtaking views. While exploring on land offers plenty of surprises, nothing compares to the thrill of seeing it all from above. Helicopter tours give you access to remote spots like Mahoney Falls or the Canadian Rockies, where the scenery is so spectacular you’ll want to pinch yourself. With a reputation for friendly pilots and scenic vistas that can’t be matched from the ground, Ketchikan’s helicopter experiences are a must for adventurous travelers.
Whether you’re craving a quick flight over waterfalls or an extended tour that includes mountain top landings, this guide will help you choose between the top-rated helicopter tours. We’ve looked at reviews, itineraries, and value for money to bring you the best options for your Alaska adventure.
Quick Overview of Ketchikan Helicopter Tours
Our list features two highly-rated helicopter experiences, each offering a different flavor of adventure. The Ketchikan Helicopter Tour, Mahoney Falls is a 50-minute flight that provides incredible views of the Tongass National Forest and the towering Mahoney Falls. The Ketchikan Helicopter Tour, COMBO is a full hour that combines a waterfall flyover with a mountain-top land visit, perfect for those wanting a more comprehensive experience. Both tours give you the chance to spot wildlife like mountain goats and eagles, and include knowledgeable guides and friendly pilots. Now, let’s dive into each option.
1. Ketchikan Helicopter Tour, Mahoney Falls
This tour offers a 50-minute helicopter ride over the stunning wilderness surrounding Ketchikan. You’ll soar above the Tongass National Forest, one of the largest temperate rainforests in the world, with a chance to spot wildlife like bald eagles, mountain goats, and deer. The highlight is flying over Mahoney Falls, a spectacular 1,500-foot waterfall that cascades down rugged cliffs. The helicopter provides a perspective that’s impossible from land, revealing mountain lakes and dense forests stretching as far as the eye can see.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on the natural landscape, combined with informative narration from your pilot. Many reviewers mention the “amazing views” and “friendly, professional staff”. You’ll get roughly 20 minutes flying over the forest and waterfalls, with time to ask questions and learn about the region’s ecology. If you’re hoping for a quick but immersive helicopter experience packed with wildlife sightings and stunning scenery, this is a top choice.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a shorter, scenic flight with emphasis on waterfalls and forest views, plus the chance to see local wildlife up close.
2. Ketchikan Helicopter Tour, COMBO
For those wanting a more extensive adventure, the Ketchikan Helicopter Tour, COMBO offers a full hour of flight time. It begins with a scenic flyover of Mahoney Falls before taking you along the George Inlet and up to a mountaintop helipad. From this elevated perch at around 2,000 feet, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies and Prince of Wales Island. After landing on the mountain, you’ll have 10 to 20 minutes to soak in the silence and panoramic vistas.
This tour is especially appealing because it combines the waterfall experience with a land landing on a mountain top, giving you a sense of truly being on top of the world. Many reviews praise the “smooth, comfortable ride” and the “friendly, knowledgeable pilots”. The inclusion of a helicopter ride over snow-capped peaks, plus wildlife sightings below, makes it a comprehensive option. It’s a great pick for travelers wanting a longer experience or those who want a picture-perfect moment on a mountaintop.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a broader, more diverse helicopter experience that includes both waterfalls and mountain landings, with stellar panoramic views.
How to Choose Between These Ketchikan Helicopter Tours
If you’re short on time but still want an unforgettable aerial view, the Mahoney Falls tour delivers a solid dose of natural beauty in about 50 minutes. It’s especially good for wildlife watchers and those who want a quick, scenic thrill.
For a more immersive day in the skies, the COMBO tour offers a full hour with more diverse scenery—including mountain top landings and views of the Canadian Rockies. It’s ideal if you’re a seasoned viewer, want a photo-worthy experience, or simply crave more time in the air.
Consider your budget, schedule, and interests — and book early, especially during peak summer months, since these tours are popular and fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Both helicopter experiences in Ketchikan are excellent choices, each with its own strengths. The Ketchikan Helicopter Tour, Mahoney Falls is perfect for a quick, wildlife-rich adventure centered around a stunning waterfall. Meanwhile, the COMBO provides a more expansive, panoramic view, including mountain top landings and a broader scope of the scenery.
If you’re visiting with family, seeking a short but memorable flight, or want a chance to spot eagles and mountain goats, the first option is ideal. For those wanting a more in-depth, awe-inspiring experience, the second tour delivers a full hour of spectacular sights and memorable moments.
Either way, booking ahead ensures you secure a spot on these popular flights. Take your pick, and get ready for an unforgettable perspective on the wilderness that makes Ketchikan so special.