helicopter tour along the South Rim

 helicopter tour along the South Rim

A helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon is a unique and exciting way to celebrate the winter season. You would be surprised how amazing the Canyon is in winter with fresh snow that adds to its mysterious beauty. South Rim has a higher elevation than West Rim, so you must tour South Rim if you want to see the snow-covered canyon.

Touring the southern edge

South Rim is often called the "real" Canyon and is located just west of Flagstaff in Arizona. That makes South Rim an easy trip if you stay in Sedona, Flagstaff, Phoenix or Scottsdale. South Rim is also a popular destination for Las Vegas travelers, but if you are staying in Las Vegas, you must take a plane or a bus to Arizona to begin your tour. Going by plane is better since the flight takes about an hour and if you go by bus, you are seeing a 5 1/2 hour trip each way.

You can book a long or short helicopter tour along the South Rim, and if you choose the longest, you will get 50 minutes of air time instead of 30 minutes on the shortest route. The longest route is worth it because you can fly over the North Rim, the South Rim and the east edge of the National Park. The shortest route is also very picturesque and you can see the North and South edges. Both tours give you an incredible view of the vast parks.

There is also another route you should consider. It is a sunset tour that combines the 30-minute helicopter flight with a 4x4 land tour. On this tour, you will travel to Hopi Point at dusk. There are many places to enjoy on this tour, including one of the hidden elevated fire towers.

Helicopter rides from Las Vegas

If you wish to take a helicopter tour of the West Rim, you must depart from Las Vegas. Las Vegas helicopters go to the West Rim because it is much closer to Las Vegas, and the South Rim is too far away for the helicopters to fly. There are no connecting flights between the west and south tires.
Las Vegas tours can be air only, or they can be landing tours. Both types of routes fly over Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam on the way to the canyon.

 helicopter tour along the South Rim

Landing tours are very fun, and you should consider booking one of those if you can. You can experience the Canyon from the air and from the ground that way. There are many fun activities waiting in the Canyon, like descending to the floor of the Canyon and enjoying a picnic with champagne, riding a float along the smooth waters of the Colorado River and walking on the transparent Skywalk platform. However, air travel alone is also incredible, as it gives you a unique perspective of one of the most beautiful natural landmarks in America.

The tours are popular

These helicopter tours sell out quickly because they are very popular, so if you want guaranteed seats, book your tour in advance. It is best to block your route at least four days or more in advance so that the day and time you want to fly is available.

Don't forget to dress for the cold winter too. In South Rim, you'll face cold temperatures and maybe even snow, so wear a warm jacket and pants along with gloves, a hat, and sturdy shoes. The West Rim is warmer, but since it can still be cold, it is a good idea to dress in layers that you can throw or add. You will also want to wear sunscreen, sunglasses and lip balm on both edges, and also bring water.

If you plan to spend your vacation in Las Vegas or Arizona, do not miss the opportunity to take a helicopter tour of the Canyon. It will be a Christmas celebration that you will not forget!



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