Grand Canyon National Park - Top Wintertime Helicopter Rides

By Jacky Archer


I can't think of a more exciting way to celebrate the winter season than taking a flight in one of the Grand Canyon helicopters. A lot of people think winter is the wrong time of year to visit the Grand Canyon, but you'd be amazed by the way a layer of fresh snow adds a beautiful new dimension to a landscape that's already spectacular. Snow is more likely at the South Rim than at the West Rim, because the altitude there is over 6,000 feet above sea level.

The Real Canyon

Known as the "real" Grand Canyon, the South Rim is just west of Flagstaff, in central AZ. That makes it the perfect place to visit if you're in Phoenix, Sedona, Flagstaff or Scottsdale. However, if you're staying in Vegas instead, you can take a bus or plane to the South Rim for your tour. Going by airplane is best since the flight takes about an hour and if you go by bus, you're looking at a 5 1/2 hour ride each way.

There are two types of helicopter rides at the South Rim: 50-minute tours and shorter, 30-minute flights. I strongly prefer the longer version - it's much more comprehensive, covering the South, North and East Rims. The 30-minute tour flies from the South Rim to the North Rim and back. It's a terrific way to get the flavor of the National Park.

Plus, there's another tour you can take that's a lot of fun too. It upgrades the 30 minute flight with a 4x4 tour at sunset. This tour ends when your 4x4 drives you to scenic Hopi Point at dusk. You'll see so many amazing sights, including one of the hidden elevated fire towers.

Helicopter Tours From Vegas

Las Vegas is the departure point for all West Rim helicopter rides. The West Rim is just a little east of Vegas, but the South Rim is outside the range of helicopters flying out of Sin City. There aren't any direct flights between the West and South Rims.

Canyon helicopter tours come in two flavors: air-only and landing flights. Both types of tours fly over Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam on the way to the Canyon.

If it fits in with your time allotment and budget, you should really consider taking a landing tours. Landing tours are a terrific way to experience the National Park in all its glory. Float trips down the Colorado River and VIP passes to the Skywalk are popular add-ons, but the most popular option of all is the chopper flight to the Canyon floor followed by a champagne picnic. The air-only version is a terrific choice for people who are short on time or have a limited budget.

Sell Outs

These helicopter tours are very popular and they fill up fast, so you need to book early to secure your seats. Try to get your seats at least four days in advance so you can get the time and date you want.

Remember, you'll need to dress for the winter weather. South Rim visitors during winter season should plan for the possibility of snow-wear a warm jacket, long pants, a hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes. The West Rim is warmer, but since it may still be chilly, dressing in layers you can shed or add is a good idea. Sun protection is necessary at both rims, so bring sunglasses, lip balm, and extra water too.

Whether you're spending the winter season in Vegas or central AZ, you owe it to yourself to consider a Grand Canyon helicopter ride. It's a terrific way to celebrate the season!




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