Virgin River is a fantastic base for exploring Zion National Park’s dramatic scenery. Its proximity to the park’s main entrance makes it easy to access a variety of unique tours, from soaring helicopter flights to land-based adventures.
What truly sets Virgin River apart is the opportunity to experience Zion from sky-high vantage points or from the comfort of a helicopter, giving you a perspective few get to enjoy.
Whether you’re looking for a quick thrill or a more immersive aerial adventure, the tours listed below provide some of the best ways to see Zion’s iconic landscapes.
We especially like the 35-Mile Zion Panoramic Helicopter Flight for its quick, breathtaking overview, and the 100-Mile Zion Helicopter Flight for its expansive vistas.
If you’re considering your options, keep in mind that each tour offers something different: shorter rides are great for a quick thrill, while longer excursions with landings provide a more detailed experience.
Some tours are perfect for those with limited time, others appeal to travelers eager for a deeper look at Zion’s grandeur. Now, let’s explore the top three Zion National Park tours based in Virgin River.
1. 35 Mile – Zion National Park Panoramic Helicopter Flight
At number one on our list, the 35-Mile Zion National Park Panoramic Helicopter Flight offers an excellent introduction to Zion’s most stunning sights. This 20-minute tour covers roughly 35 miles, giving you a quick but immersive view of the park’s most famous landmarks—all from the sky.
Departing from a private heliport just minutes from Springdale, this flight is ideal for travelers who want a taste of Zion’s grandeur without a full day commitment.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on key areas like Red Butte and Kolob Canyons. As your pilot soars north between Smith Mesa and Zion, they’ll share insights about the land’s geology and history, making it more than just a pretty picture. Reviewers consistently praise the enthralling views and the personalized experience of flying in a helicopter.
One commented, “The ride was thrilling and relaxing; the staff was courteous, and Kevin, the pilot, made it fun and informative.” The cost of $199 per person offers excellent value considering the exclusivity and intimacy of a helicopter flight.
Bottom line: If you’re short on time but want to see Zion’s highlights from a memorable perspective, this flight delivers a quick hit of awe-inspiring views and expert narration.
2. 100 Mile Zion National Park Panoramic Helicopter Flight
For those eager to see more of Zion and its surrounding landscapes, the 100-Mile Zion Panoramic Helicopter Flight is the top choice. Lasting about 50 minutes, this flight provides a comprehensive view of Zion’s most celebrated features, including Kolob Canyons and the Red Butte mountain range.
What makes this experience truly special is its ability to show you Zion from a perspective that few visitors ever see, especially with the optional upgrade to land on a butte.
This tour emphasizes a small-group experience—with only six travelers—making it a more personalized adventure. The pilot’s detailed narration helps you understand Zion’s geology and landscape formation, adding educational value to the visual spectacle.
Guests frequently rave about the breathtaking scenery and the chance to see Zion’s rugged terrain from every angle. One reviewer noted, “The views and maneuverability of the helicopter were spectacular.
Seeing a frozen mountain lake from above was unforgettable.” Price-wise, at $499 per person, this is a more expensive but highly rewarding way to take in Zion’s vastness and geological complexity.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for travelers who want a longer, more detailed aerial tour with the option to land and explore, making it a step above the quick thrill.
3. 55 Mile – Helicopter Tour Around Zion National Park
Finally, the 55-Mile Helicopter Tour strikes a balance between length, coverage, and convenience. With a 30-minute flight, you’ll cover about 55 miles around Zion, including sights like Kolob Canyon, Smith Mesa, and the Canaan Mountain Wilderness Area. This tour is a great choice if you want a solid overview of Zion without committing to a longer flight.
One of the standout features is its avoidance of crowds—since you’re viewing Zion from above, you bypass the often-busy hiking trails and parking areas.
Departing from a private heliport close to the park, the pilot provides insights into Zion’s geological features and formation process. The reviews highlight the stunning views and the smooth flight experience. One traveler wrote, “Great ride, fun time.
Do it—they have great customer service.” At $299 per person, this tour offers a good compromise of price, duration, and panoramic coverage, making it suitable for travelers who want a comprehensive aerial view without a long commitment.
Bottom line: If you’d like a mid-length flight that covers significant ground and avoids crowded trails, this is an excellent choice.
How to Choose the Right Zion Tour in Virgin River
When selecting the best Zion tour for you, consider your budget, time constraints, and how much of Zion you want to see from above. For a quick overview, the 35-Mile Helicopter Flight is perfect. If you’re after a more immersive experience with a chance to land and explore, then the 100-Mile Flight is best. For those seeking a balance of coverage and convenience, the 55-Mile Tour fits nicely.
Think about your interest in geology and landscape detail—the longer flights provide more detailed insights. Also, check your travel dates; many tours offer multiple start times, making it easier to fit into your itinerary. Book early, especially during peak seasons, as these popular experiences tend to fill up fast.
Final Thoughts
Virgin River offers a range of superb options for viewing Zion National Park from above. For a quick, exhilarating overview, the 35-Mile Helicopter Flight is hard to beat. If you want a more extensive aerial experience with a landing option, the 100-Mile Flight is the ultimate splurge. And for a balance of coverage and value, the 55-Mile Tour hits the sweet spot.
No matter which you choose, each offers a unique way to appreciate Zion’s stunning landscapes. If you’re eager for an unforgettable adventure, I recommend booking early—these tours are popular and fill quickly. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a landscape lover, or a photo enthusiast, Zion’s skies await.