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

If you’re dreaming of soaring high over the stunning peaks and glaciers of the Canadian Rockies, the Canmore 35-Minute Heli Tour of Mt Assiniboine offers a compelling way to see this iconic landscape from a new perspective. This short but memorable helicopter flight promises to deliver some of the most striking views you can find in Alberta’s wilderness, with just enough time to take in the highlights without feeling rushed.

What we love about this experience is how it combines accessibility with authentic scenic beauty. You get a bird’s-eye view of The Three Sisters, those distinctive peaks that define Canmore’s skyline, along with the chance to get close to the “Matterhorn of the Rockies,” Mt Assiniboine, and its glaciers — a sight that’s truly unforgettable. And for those who enjoy a bit of Hollywood glamour, flying over the Spray Lake Valley—a popular filming location—adds another fun layer to the adventure.

A few considerations are worth noting: the flight duration is just over half an hour, so don’t expect a long-breathtaking tour, but what you do get is packed with incredible vistas. Also, as the tour departs from Canmore, it’s best suited for travelers already in the Banff or Kananaskis area looking for a scenic, high-altitude thrill without dedicating an entire day. This trip especially appeals to those who love photography or simply want a memorable way to see the Rockies from above.

Who is this tour best for?

• First-time visitors wanting a quick, stunning overview of the Rockies
• Photography enthusiasts eager for spectacular landscape shots
• Travelers on a tight schedule but craving an authentic mountain experience
• Anyone celebrating a special occasion like Valentine’s Day or a romantic getaway

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: Fly past the Three Sisters and get up close to Mt Assiniboine and its glaciers.
• Hollywood Connection: The flight passes over Spray Lake Valley, often used in movies.
• Accessible for Most: The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for a variety of travelers.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Excellent Value: For around $344, you gain roughly 35 minutes of jaw-dropping scenery—an experience worth the price for most mountain lovers.
• Photo Opportunities: Ample time is allocated for picture-taking, making it ideal for capturing memories from the air.

An In-Depth Look at the Helicopter Tour

We found that this helicopter experience offers a practical way to enjoy the mountains without the demanding physical activity of hiking or climbing. It’s perfect if your goal is to see as much as possible in a short period, especially if you’re limited on time but still want that “wow” moment.

Starting Point and Check-In

The adventure begins at Alpine Helicopters Inc., housed in a cozy log building in Canmore. Check-in is straightforward, and the staff are friendly and clear about safety procedures. Because parking fees are included, you don’t need to worry about additional costs, though hotel transfers are not part of the package, so plan your transportation accordingly.

The Flight Itinerary

Once aboard a well-maintained helicopter, the adventure takes off with a flight over the Bow River, giving you your first sweeping views of Canmore’s charming townscape. As you ascend, you’ll glide past the Three Sisters peaks, which are a familiar sight for anyone visiting the area. These three prominent summits are among the most recognizable natural landmarks in the region, and seeing them from above lends an entirely new perspective.

Passing through Three Sisters Pass, your route takes you into the Spray Valley, where you’ll fly alongside the Spray Lakes reservoir on the left, and Goat Pond on the right. Flying over this area is especially appealing because of its popularity in Hollywood movies, adding a dash of cinematic glamour to your aerial journey.

The core highlight begins as you approach Mt Assiniboine, famously called the “Matterhorn of the Rockies” thanks to its pyramidal shape. You’ll get close enough to capture stunning photos of the glaciers, the towering peaks, and the rugged terrain. The pilot maintains a safe but close proximity, allowing ample time for photo and video opportunities—a key feature appreciated by travelers who want to remember this moment vividly.

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The Scenic Highlights

• Mt Assiniboine and Glaciers: The tallest peak in southern Rockies, topping out at over 12,000 feet, makes for a breathtaking centerpiece.
• Marvel Lake and Gloria Lake: These pristine alpine waters provide scenic foregrounds for your glacier shots.
• The Continental Divide: Flying over the border between Alberta and British Columbia, you’ll cross the slope of Marvel Pass, emphasizing the region’s rugged, boundary-defining geography.
• The Bow Valley and Canmore: As you reverse course, the landscape transitions from icy giants to lush valley scenery, culminating with views of Canmore’s townscape from above.

The Return Route

After circling Mt Assiniboine and its glaciers, your pilot guides the helicopter toward Marvel Pass and then over Mt Turner. The flight then follows the lake shores of Spray Lakes back toward the Bow Valley. Passing through Stewarts Gap, you’ll be heading back toward Canmore, with a final glimpse of the town as you descend to earth.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour includes parking fees and the helicopter ride itself. However, there are no hotel transfers included, so plan your transportation to and from the meeting point accordingly. The tour is suitable for those with mobility considerations because it’s wheelchair accessible.

Flight Duration and Group Size

The 35-minute duration is enough for a compact but comprehensive aerial overview. Because the flight may require a minimum of two participants, solo travelers might need to share a flight with others, which can be a fun social aspect or a slight wait if the schedule isn’t full.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $344 per person, this helicopter tour isn’t cheap, but in the realm of aerial sightseeing, it’s quite reasonable. You’re paying for an intimate experience with unbeatable views—something that’s hard to replicate on the ground. Many reviewers, including one who called it “the most memorable experience for Valentine’s Day,” find the cost justified by the quality of the views and the opportunity to capture breathtaking photos.

The duration might seem brief, but the experience is intense and rewarding. If you value unique vantage points and quick access to mountain panoramas, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a memorable highlight without committing to a full-day helicopter adventure.

Final Thoughts

This helicopter tour from Canmore offers a compact yet immersive way to experience the grandeur of the Canadian Rockies. It’s perfect for those who love mountain scenery, glaciers, and photography, and don’t mind spending a bit more to see the sights from a spectacular vantage point. The route covers some of the most iconic peaks and valleys, with plenty of time to soak in the scenery and snap photos.

The experience is accessible, well-organized, and comes with the peace of mind of flexible booking policies. While it won’t replace a longer expedition for the avid hiker or mountaineer, it’s an excellent way to tick off mountain views that often require days of trekking.

If you’re visiting Canmore or nearby Banff and want to add a dash of adventure to your trip, this helicopter tour is a practical, memorable choice—especially if celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a thrill.

FAQs

How long is the helicopter tour?
The tour lasts approximately 35 minutes, giving you a solid window to enjoy the scenic highlights without feeling rushed.

What is included in the tour?
The package includes the helicopter ride and parking fees. Hotel transfers are not included, so plan your transportation to the meeting point accordingly.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for travelers with mobility considerations.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring layers, as mountain weather can change quickly. Pack a camera or smartphone for photos—ample time is allocated for picture-taking.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, helicopter flights depend on good weather conditions. If canceled due to weather, you’ll receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.

In the end, this Canmore heli tour strikes a nice balance between convenience, scenery, and value. It’s a memorable way to see the Majestic Rockies, especially if you’re short on time but want a big impact. Whether celebrating or simply looking to add an extraordinary highlight to your trip, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: