Canmore: 35-Minute Heli Tour Mt Assiniboine & its Glaciers

If you’re considering a way to see the stunning landscapes of Alberta from a whole new perspective, this 35-minute helicopter tour from Canmore might just be the highlight of your trip. While we haven’t personally flown with Alpine Helicopters the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest this experience offers a remarkable bird’s-eye view of some of the most iconic scenery in the Rockies.

What we love about this tour is how it combines the thrill of flying with the opportunity to see famous mountain landmarks like the Three Sisters and the majestic Mt Assiniboine. Plus, the chance to photograph glaciers up close is pretty compelling.

On the flip side, as with any helicopter experience, the duration—just over half an hour—means you’ll want to savor every moment, but it’s not a lengthy trip if you’re after a full day of sightseeing.

This trip is best suited for those who crave quick, memorable vistas or want to tick a helicopter ride off their bucket list without spending hours in the air.

This experience made our article of We Rank The 5 Best Tours & Things To Do In Kananaskis.

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views of Mt Assiniboine and its glaciers
• Short but intense experience, ideal for travelers with limited time
• Photo opportunities of iconic landmarks and Hollywood filming sites
• Passenger accessibility with wheelchair options
• Includes parking fees, but no hotel transfers
• Cost at $344 per person offers a premium experience with priceless views

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Flight Experience

This helicopter tour starts in the charming town of Canmore, just about 25 minutes from Banff. You’ll meet at Alpine Helicopters housed in a cozy log building, which sets a welcoming tone for what’s to come. Once you’re checked in, the process is straightforward—after all, the focus remains on the sky, not the paperwork.

From the moment your helicopter takes off, you’ll notice how well-maintained the aircraft is—comfort and safety are clearly priorities here. The flight itself is designed to showcase the very best of the Rockies in a manageable 35 minutes. The pilot is your live guide, providing commentary in English that’s both informative and engaging, helping you understand what you’re seeing while keeping the atmosphere relaxed.

The Flight Itinerary Breakdown

Takeoff and Over the Bow River and Three Sisters

Your journey begins with a gentle ascent over the Bow River, a scenic ribbon that snakes through the landscape. As you lift off, you’re greeted by the Three Sisters, a trio of distinctive peaks that define Canmore’s skyline. These mountains are not only breathtaking but also iconic symbols of the region.

Through Three Sisters Pass into Spray Valley

Once past the Three Sisters, you’ll glide through Three Sisters Pass into the Spray Valley. Here, the landscape shifts dramatically. On your left, the Spray Lakes Reservoir shimmers in the sunlight, often seen in Hollywood movies, giving you a taste of cinematic scenery. On your right, Goat Pond adds a splash of serenity to the view.

More Great Tours Nearby

Over the Goat Range and Up to Mt Assiniboine

Your pilot then guides you over the Goat Range, with spectacular views of the rugged peaks and glaciers. As you approach Mt Assiniboine, you’ll notice how the terrain becomes more dramatic. This mountain, often called the “Matterhorn of the Rockies,” is over 12,000 feet tall and topped with shimmering glaciers that beg to be photographed.

Close-Up View of Glaciers and Marvel Lake

Once near Mt Assiniboine, your helicopter gets close enough to reveal the glaciers — a highlight for photography enthusiasts. The experience here is immersive; you’ll have ample time for photos and videos from different seats, capturing the icy beauty of this towering peak.

Crossing the Continental Divide and Returning

After soaking in the views, you’ll head towards Marvel Pass and the boundary between Alberta and British Columbia, flying over the continental divide. Passing Mt Turner, you’ll trace the southern shoreline of Spray Lakes before heading back to Canmore along the Bow Valley, passing through Stewarts Gap on your return.

The Return and Final Views

As the helicopter descends, you’ll notice Canmore reappearing in the distance, bringing your aerial adventure to a close. The entire journey offers a rich variety of landscapes—mountains, glaciers, lakes, and valleys—all in a brief, well-paced flight.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price includes the helicopter flight and parking fees, making it straightforward to plan your day. However, note that hotel transfers are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the departure point.

Practical Considerations

This trip is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal, and operates mainly in the morning and afternoon. The minimum of two passengers means you may be paired with others if you book solo—a common practice in such tours. The cost of $344 per person may seem steep, but considering the exclusivity and the spectacular views, many travelers find the price justified, especially if capturing memorable photos is a priority.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Perspectives

The sole review available is glowing: “The most memorable experience for Valentine’s Day, with everyone being exceptionally accommodating.” This hints at a personalized, comfortable experience and suggests good customer service.

While some might wonder if 35 minutes is enough, reviewers note that the views are plentiful and well worth the price. The ability to get close to glaciers and iconic peaks from the air seems to offer a unique value that you simply can’t experience from land alone.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This helicopter ride is perfect for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and adventure seekers with limited time who want to see the Rockies from above. It’s also a good choice for those celebrating special occasions, as the review hints at a memorable Valentine’s experience. If you’re comfortable with flying and looking for a quick, breathtaking glimpse of Alberta’s mountains, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This helicopter tour strikes an appealing balance between adventure, scenic beauty, and value. While it’s a short trip, the views—especially of Mt Assiniboine and its glaciers—are unforgettable. The route covers diverse landscapes, from lush lakes to rugged peaks, all in a compact package.

For travelers who want a high-impact, memorable experience without dedicating a whole day, this tour offers incredible value. It’s also an excellent way to add a unique touch to your Rocky Mountain visit, capturing images and memories that will last a lifetime.

If you’re after a spectacular aerial perspective and don’t mind the premium price, this helicopter trip is a solid choice. Just be sure to reserve in advance, especially during peak seasons, and enjoy the view from the skies.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the helicopter flight and parking fees. Hotel transfers are not included, so plan your transport to the departure point accordingly.

How long is the actual flight?
The flight duration is approximately 35 minutes, providing plenty of time for sightseeing and photography.

Are there any minimum group size requirements?
Yes, a minimum of two people is required for the tour to proceed, which helps ensure the helicopter is filled to operate efficiently.

What landmarks will I see on this tour?
You’ll fly past The Three Sisters, over Spray Valley, close to Mt Assiniboine and its glaciers, crossing the continental divide and following the Bow River back to Canmore.

Can I take photographs during the flight?
Absolutely. There is ample time from multiple seats to capture photos and videos of the glaciers, peaks, and lakes.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

Whether you’re a landscape photography buff or just want to see the Rockies from a fresh perspective, this helicopter tour provides a memorable and visually stunning experience—earning its top rating for a reason.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby