West Yellowstone:1 Hour Aerial Tour the Trifecta

West Yellowstone’s "1 Hour Aerial Tour the Trifecta" offers a unique chance to experience the region’s breathtaking beauty from above. Soaring over the Continental Divide and West Yellowstone Valley, this private aerial adventure showcases the area’s natural wonders and uncovers insights into its remarkable geological history. With a knowledgeable guide providing engaging commentary, travelers embark on an unforgettable journey that promises to leave them in awe of this remarkable corner of the world.

This experience made our article of West Yellowstone’s 7 Top Helicopter Flights & Tours.

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Key Points

This 1-hour private aerial tour in a Cessna 182 showcases the Continental Divide, West Yellowstone Valley, and the 1959 earthquake’s impact.
The tour is priced from $397.34 per person and departs from Yellowstone Airport in Gallatin County, Montana.
The tour provides a unique perspective as the only small plane aerial tour company in West Yellowstone.
Booking is available with a pay later option, and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
Participants should consider their physical capabilities, as the tour is not suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The West Yellowstone: 1 Hour Aerial Tour – The Trifecta is a private aerial tour that accommodates up to 3 people in a Cessna 182 aircraft.

A private aerial tour accommodating up to 3 people in a Cessna 182 aircraft.

Priced from $397.34 per person, this 1-hour tour departs from the Yellowstone Airport in Gallatin County, Montana.

Led by an English-speaking live guide, the tour highlights the Continental Divide, West Yellowstone Valley, and the 1959 earthquake.

Bookings can be made with a reservation policy that allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for those with claustrophobia, fear of heights, motion sickness, or babies under 1 year.

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Tour Highlights

This aerial tour offers a unique perspective, being the only small plane aerial tour company operating from West Yellowstone.

It combines elements from three different tours, providing aerial views of the Continental Divide, West Yellowstone Valley, and historical insights about the 1959 earthquake.

Passengers will soar over the rugged landscapes, witnessing the stunning natural beauty from above.

The combination tour allows visitors to experience the highlights of the area in a single, efficient excursion.

With a live tour guide providing commentary, guests can gain a deeper understanding of the region’s geology and significance.

Booking Information

To book the West Yellowstone: 1 Hour Aerial Tour – The Trifecta, visitors can reserve their spot now and pay later, without having to pay anything today.

The tour offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

However, there’s a weight limit – the maximum combined weight of all participants mustn’t exceed 600 lbs.

Certain individuals, such as those with claustrophobia, fear of heights, vertigo, altitude sickness, or motion sickness, as well as babies under 1 year, aren’t suitable for this tour.

Participant Restrictions

Individuals with claustrophobia, fear of heights, vertigo, altitude sickness, or motion sickness may not be suitable for this aerial tour.

The small Cessna aircraft can feel confining, and the high-altitude flight may trigger discomfort for those prone to these conditions.

Plus, the tour isn’t recommended for babies under one year old.

Safety is the top priority, and participants must be able to handle the physical aspects of the flight.

The tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to anyone they deem unfit for the aerial experience.

Participants should carefully consider their own limitations before booking this tour.

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Preparation and Meeting Point

Participants should bring weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes for the West Yellowstone aerial tour.

The meeting point is at the Fly Yellowstone sign upon entering the airport. Participants should park directly in front of the sign, as going past the main terminal means they’ve gone too far.

The tour includes the following:

A live tour guide to provide historical insights and commentary during the flight.
A Cessna 182 aircraft that can accommodate up to 3 people for a private aerial experience.
Stunning aerial views of the Continental Divide, West Yellowstone Valley, and the 1959 earthquake site.

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Aerial Views of the Continental Divide

The aerial tour provides breathtaking views of the Continental Divide, the majestic natural boundary that separates the Pacific and Atlantic watersheds.

Soaring above the rugged, snow-capped peaks, guests witness the grandeur of this iconic geological feature. The tour offers a unique perspective, allowing visitors to appreciate the sheer scale and striking beauty of the Continental Divide.

Guests can trace the meandering ridgeline, identifying the craggy summits that define this continental watershed. This aerial vantage point offers an unparalleled opportunity to understand the immense geological forces that have shaped the landscape over millennia.

Taking in the West Yellowstone Valley

As the aerial tour leaves the Continental Divide behind, it immerses guests in the stunning West Yellowstone Valley.

The valley boasts:

Sweeping vistas of rolling hills and lush meadows.
Serene rivers and streams that wind through the landscape.
Glimpses of wildlife, including elk, bison, and perhaps even a grizzly bear.

From this aerial perspective, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the area’s natural beauty and the diverse ecosystems that thrive in this region.

The tour provides a unique opportunity to take in the grandeur of the West Yellowstone Valley.

Exploring the 1959 Earthquake History

While soaring over the West Yellowstone Valley, the aerial tour also explores the region’s history, particularly the devastating impact of the 1959 Yellowstone earthquake.

On August 17th, 1959, a massive 7.5 magnitude quake struck, triggering a massive landslide that buried the Hebgen Lake campground, killing 28 people.

The tour provides an aerial perspective of this disaster, highlighting the scale of the destruction and the dramatic reshaping of the landscape.

Guests gain a deeper understanding of the region’s seismic activity and the lasting effects the earthquake had on the local community and ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Number of Passengers per Flight?

The tour accommodates up to 3 people per private group in a Cessna 182 aircraft. The maximum combined weight of all participants must not exceed 600 lbs.

Can the Tour Accommodate Multiple Languages?

The tour accommodates groups up to 3 people and is offered in English. While multiple languages may not be supported, the tour guide provides live narration to ensure all participants can fully experience the aerial sights.

Do I Need to Purchase Tickets in Advance?

The tour allows customers to reserve now and pay later, so there’s no need to purchase tickets in advance. Participants can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The tour has participant restrictions, stating it’s not suitable for "babies under 1 year." This suggests there are no other specific age limits, but infants under 1 year old are not allowed to participate in the aerial tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

No, there is no option to extend the tour duration. The tour is strictly 1 hour long and does not offer any extensions or longer packages. Participants must adhere to the 1-hour timeframe as specified in the tour details.

The Sum Up

The "1 Hour Aerial Tour the Trifecta" offers a captivating bird’s-eye view of West Yellowstone’s natural wonders. Soaring above the Continental Divide and the West Yellowstone Valley, passengers gain a comprehensive understanding of the region’s remarkable features, including the significant 1959 earthquake. This private tour provides an unforgettable aerial experience for up to three people, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of this remarkable destination.