Backcountry Arches Helicopter Tour – 30 Minutes

A Closer Look at the Backcountry Arches Helicopter Tour in Moab

If you’re planning to visit Moab and want a way to see the stunning landscape without hiking for hours, the Backcountry Arches Helicopter Tour might just be your ticket. This 30-minute flight promises to deliver sweeping views of some of Utah’s most famous geological features, all from the comfort of a helicopter. It’s an exciting option for travelers pressed for time but eager for a taste of the area’s rugged beauty.

What we love about this experience is how it combines aerial bird’s-eye vistas of iconic formations like Corona Arch and Gemini Bridges with engaging narration from a knowledgeable pilot. It’s a manageable time commitment that offers a rare perspective on the landscape that’s otherwise only accessible by long hikes or drives.

One potential consideration is the price—at around $418 per person, it’s not the cheapest activity in Moab. But for those who value premium views and expert commentary, many find it a worthwhile splurge. This tour would suit adventure lovers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone simply wanting to make their Moab trip unforgettable with a short, scenic flight.

Key Points

• Stunning Aerial Views: Experience Moab’s most remarkable landscapes from above, including the Colorado River and Canyonlands.
• Expert Narration: Your pilot shares interesting stories, local history, and geological facts to enrich the experience.
• Close Encounters: See famous formations like Corona Arch and Gemini Bridges up close and get a new appreciation from the sky.
• Limited Duration, Big Impact: At just 30 minutes, this tour offers a compact but memorable glimpse of canyon country.
• Small Group Intimacy: With a maximum of three travelers, the experience feels personalized and engaging.
• Book in Advance: On average, it’s booked about 32 days ahead, indicating high demand.

Arriving in Moab: What the Tour Looks Like

The meeting point is conveniently located at 94 W Aviation Way, with all logistics handled by Redtail Air. The entire experience includes window seats for everyone, ensuring unobstructed views, along with headsets for clear narration. The small group size means you won’t be crowded or rushed, and the friendly pilot adds a personal touch, sharing stories and geological insights that make the landscape come alive.

The 30-minute flight time is enough to visit several key sights without feeling rushed. The itinerary highlights include stops at some of Moab’s most famous formations, such as Monitor and Merrimac Buttes, Twin Natural Bridges, and Corona Arch. Each of these features has its own story and visual appeal, which your pilot will help you understand and appreciate.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Monitor and Merrimac Buttes

Your journey begins with a look at these two slender, towering Entrada Sandstone walls. Named after Civil War steamships, their vertical, narrow profile makes for a striking first impression. From the air, you’ll see how the wind and water have sculpted these delicate formations over millions of years.

Twin Natural Bridges

Next, you’ll fly over a spectacular section of the rim above Bull Canyon to see Twin Natural Bridges. These two arches, positioned side-by-side, are connected by a narrow gap about 10 feet wide. Seeing these in flight gives you a sense of their scale and the intricate natural forces that shaped them.

Corona Arch

The next stop is Corona Arch, which many compare favorably to Rainbow Bridge thanks to its smooth, sweeping curves. From above, you’ll appreciate the massive size and elegant arching shape, standing out against the rugged mountain landscape.

Dead Horse Point State Park

Your tour also includes views of Dead Horse Point, a renowned overlook that offers panoramic views of the Colorado River and the canyonlands. This area was formed through millions of years of geological processes, from sediment deposition to erosion, creating the stunning vistas you’ll see from the air.

Gemini Bridges

Finally, you’ll fly over Gemini Bridges, a set of two adjacent arches that span a deep canyon. These natural bridges are a favorite for photographers and adventurers alike, and seeing them from the sky provides a new understanding of their size and setting.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The real value here is combining breathtaking views with expert narration. The pilot often points out eagles, local wildlife, and interesting geological features, turning a scenic flight into an educational experience. One reviewer mentioned, “Rollo was a great guide! She pointed out Bald Eagles and knew her stuff,” which exemplifies the kind of personalized insight you get.

Plus, the small group format enhances the experience, making it more intimate and allowing for better viewing angles and conversation with your pilot. The window seats for everyone mean no one gets left out of the scenery.

A noteworthy aspect is how accessible this tour is—most travelers can participate, and service animals are permitted. With a total weight allowance of 300 lbs per passenger, it balances comfort with safety.

Pricing and Value

At $418 per person, some might raise an eyebrow, but considering the premium views, expert narration, and the uniqueness of aerial photography, many find it a worthwhile splurge. It’s certainly more expensive than a scenic drive or a short hike, but it offers a completely different perspective that’s hard to replicate on land.

The fact that the tour is booked on average 32 days in advance indicates high demand, likely due to the limited flight times and small group size. If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime view of Moab’s landscape, this might be a better investment than multiple shorter activities.

Practical Considerations

• Booking early is recommended due to high demand.
• The activity lasts about 30 minutes, making it a perfect pocket of adventure during a busy day.
• The meeting point is straightforward to reach in Moab, with the experience ending back at the same spot.
• Weather can impact your flight—if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.
• The tour accommodates most travelers, with the main restrictions being weight limits and good weather conditions.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

The reviews highlight the quality of scenery and guide expertise. Kelly_C noted, “Great scenery! Rollo was a great guide! She pointed out Bald Eagles and knew her stuff,” emphasizing how knowledge adds value. The brief, 30-minute duration doesn’t diminish the impact; many travelers find the views more spectacular than expected and appreciate the personalized narration throughout.

While only two reviews are available, the overall 4.5-star rating suggests a positive consensus. It’s clear that those who take this tour walk away with unforgettable photos and stories to share.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This helicopter ride is ideal for travelers short on time but eager to see Moab’s best sights from a unique vantage point. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a taste of adventure without a long hike or drive. It also suits photographers looking for panoramic shots or anyone wanting an easy but stunning way to enhance their Moab experience.

If you’re a geology buff or simply love spectacular views, this tour offers a memorable, high-quality glimpse of the region’s natural wonders. However, if you prefer extended exploration or hiking, it might serve better as a complementary experience rather than a primary activity.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In brief, the Backcountry Arches Helicopter Tour offers a compact, visually stunning, and well-guided peek into Moab’s dramatic landscape. It’s a great way to get an overview of key formations and enjoy the thrill of flying over some of Utah’s most iconic scenery. The knowledgeable guide, personalized service, and breathtaking vistas make it a worthwhile splurge for those wanting a special memory.

While not the cheapest option, the value lies in the quality of views and storytelling. It’s especially suited for visitors who want a quick, high-impact experience without sacrificing comfort or educational richness.

In short, if you’re after a memorable, scenic escape that complements your rugged Utah adventure, this helicopter tour fits the bill nicely.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Can I see the famous formations from the helicopter?
Yes, you’ll get close-up views of Corona Arch, Gemini Bridges, and the Monitor and Merrimac Buttes, with detailed narration explaining each feature.

How long is the tour?
The flight lasts approximately 30 minutes, making it a manageable activity during a busy sightseeing day.

Is the tour suitable for most travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s designed for small groups (up to 3 travelers). Service animals are also permitted.

What should I expect during the flight?
Expect window seats for everyone, clear audio narration, and views of Moab’s iconic landscapes—ideal for photography and sightseeing.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 1 month ahead is typical, with some tours booked over 30 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers all taxes, fees, and handling charges, with water in the terminal and a friendly pilot sharing stories.

In the end, this helicopter tour offers a high-quality, scenic, and educational experience that’s perfect for those wanting a quick but impactful view of Moab’s legendary landscape. It’s a prime choice for making your trip memorable—especially if aerial views and expert narration appeal to you.