Canmore: 45-Minute Continental Divide Heli Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing the Canadian Rockies from above, this 45-minute helicopter tour offers an unforgettable perspective. Based just outside Banff in Canmore, this flight takes you over some of the most stunning scenery Alberta has to offer, from the iconic Three Sisters to the towering peaks of Mt Assiniboine. It’s an adventure that blends natural beauty with a touch of Hollywood glamour, thanks to the filming locations you’ll fly over.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the spectacular panoramic views of the Rockies and glaciers are hard to beat. Second, the journey offers a good balance of adventure and comfort, with a well-maintained helicopter and a knowledgeable guide. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour has a minimum requirement of two participants, so it might involve joining other travelers if you’re booked solo. This tour is perfect for those who want a quick but immersive taste of the mountains’ majesty — whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a unique perspective on Alberta’s wilderness.

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views of the Three Sisters, Mt Assiniboine, and glaciers
• Accessible for most, with wheelchair-friendly features and a well-maintained helicopter
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours before
• Ideal for photography lovers who want incredible shots of the Rockies
• Departures in the morning and afternoon to fit most schedules
• Minimum of 2 people required, so be prepared to join others if traveling solo

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the 45-Minute Canmore Heli Tour

This helicopter tour is designed to fit into a busy travel schedule, offering a compact yet incredibly scenic experience. Starting in Canmore, a charming mountain town just 25 minutes from Banff, the tour begins with check-in at Alpine Helicopters housed in a cozy log building. The process is straightforward: arrive, check in, and prepare for takeoff. Parking fees are included in the price, which is a fair deal considering the views you’ll get.

Once airborne, the first sights are the Three Sisters — a trio of notable peaks that define the Canmore skyline. Flying from here, you get a sense of the rugged beauty that characterizes the region. As the helicopter passes through the Three Sisters Pass, you’ll experience the thrill of flying through narrow mountain corridors, a highlight for those who love dramatic scenery.

The Route: From Canmore to the Heart of the Rockies

The flight then continues into the Spray Valley, with Spray Lakes reservoir visible on the left and Goat Pond on the right. These lakes, often used in Hollywood films, give your camera plenty of opportunities for dramatic shots. We loved the way the scenery seamlessly transitions from lush lakes and forests into the stark, icy peaks of the Sundance Range and Goat Range, which run towards Banff.

Next, the helicopter veers toward Mt. Assiniboine, the “Matterhorn of the North,” towering over 12,000 feet. The close-up views of its glaciers and rugged summit are the main event. The pilot typically spends ample time circling this majestic peak, giving everyone plenty of chances to snap photos and capture videos. The thrill of seeing glaciers up close is what makes this part of the trip a standout experience.

The Continental Divide and Into British Columbia

After soaking in Mt. Assiniboine’s grandeur, the tour crosses the Continental Divide — a geographic feature that separates waters flowing into the Pacific Ocean from those flowing into the Atlantic. Flying over the border into British Columbia, you’ll see Aurora Mountain, Mt. Alcantara, and Mt. Byng — all dramatic summits in their own right.

The return journey follows the shore of Spray Lakes and passes through Stewarts Gap before returning to Canmore. Throughout, the views of the Bow Valley and the surrounding peaks help you appreciate the vastness of this rugged landscape. Most travelers agree that the entire experience offers “stunning views” that aren’t easily matched by ground-based sightseeing.

What to Expect During Your Flight

The experience begins with a safety briefing, after which you’re welcomed aboard a well-maintained helicopter. The flight duration is 45 minutes — a perfect length for those wanting a substantial taste of the Rockies without committing to a full day. This trip generally departs in the morning or afternoon, giving you flexibility to fit it into your schedule.

Once airborne, expect a smooth ride with occasional twists and turns. The helicopter is designed for comfort, with large windows that maximize your viewing area. The pilot acts as your guide, pointing out key landmarks and sharing interesting facts along the way. Since the tour requires at least two participants, you might find yourself sharing the experience with fellow travelers. This can add to the camaraderie, especially if you’re traveling alone.

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Photo Opportunities and Comfort

The helicopter’s large windows are a boon for photographers. We recommend bringing a camera with a zoom lens to capture the glaciers and mountain peaks up close. The pilot usually gives plenty of time at key sights for photos — a huge plus for those wanting to share their adventure on social media.

The helicopter is wheelchair accessible, making this experience open to a broader range of travelers, which is not always the case with mountain helicopter tours. That said, because of the shared nature of the flight and safety considerations, some mobility restrictions may apply, so it’s best to confirm when booking if you have specific needs.

Analyzing the Value: Is It Worth the Price?

At $437 per person, this helicopter tour isn’t cheap. But when you consider the cost of helicopter flights worldwide and the stunning views you’ll see, it offers fair value. You get nearly an hour of flight time, guided commentary, and the chance to see world-famous landmarks like Mt Assiniboine and the Continental Divide.

Travelers who have taken similar tours often mention the “breathtaking scenery” and the “once-in-a-lifetime perspective” as worth the price. For photography enthusiasts, the ability to capture glaciers, mountain peaks, and lakes from close range adds to the experience’s value.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a quick but impactful way to take in the Rockies’ grandeur. It’s especially suited for those celebrating a special occasion, seeking a bucket-list adventure, or simply wanting to see the mountains from a different angle. It’s also ideal for anyone with limited time who still craves a genuine, memorable mountain experience.

However, it’s not for travelers on a tight budget or those who dislike flying in small aircraft. The minimum of two participants may also mean some planning is required if you’re solo but willing to join others.

The Sum Up

This 45-minute helicopter tour from Canmore offers a superb way to see the Canadian Rockies without dedicating an entire day. The stunning views, especially of Mt Assiniboine and the glaciers, are reliably praised by travelers and genuinely awe-inspiring. The experience is well-organized, comfortable, and offers ample opportunity for photos — perfect for sharing your adventure afterward.

It’s best suited for those who value spectacular scenery and want a memorable aerial perspective. If you’re looking for an activity that combines adventure with breathtaking natural beauty, this tour is a solid choice. Just be sure to book in advance, especially during busy seasons, and consider the minimum group size when planning your trip.

FAQ

Is this helicopter tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm specific needs when booking to ensure accommodations and safety.

What is included in the price?
The tour, parking fees, and safety briefing are included. Hotel transfers are not included, so plan your transportation accordingly.

How long is the flight?
The flight lasts approximately 45 minutes, providing a substantial aerial view of the Rockies.

When does the tour depart?
It is usually available in the morning and afternoon, giving you flexibility to fit it into your day.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll fly past The Three Sisters, Mt Assiniboine, glaciers, Spray Lake Valley, and cross the Continental Divide into British Columbia.

What if I’m traveling alone?
A minimum of two people is required to proceed, so you may need to join others on the same flight.

Are there any restrictions on when I can fly?
Flights generally operate in good weather conditions; safety is paramount, so expect possible rescheduling in poor weather.

Can I take photos during the flight?
Absolutely. The large windows and ample time at key sights make it ideal for photography.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This helicopter tour from Canmore provides a rare, scenic glimpse of the Rockies’ rugged beauty — perfect for those wanting to elevate their mountain experience to new heights.

You can check availability for your dates here: