Moab’s Best Backcountry Arches Scenic Flight 30min.

If you’re visiting Moab and craving a glimpse of Utah’s lesser-known but equally breathtaking rock formations, the Moab’s Best Backcountry Arches Scenic Flight is worth considering. This 30-minute aerial tour offers a unique perspective on some of the most difficult-to-reach arches and geological marvels, all from the comfort of a small aircraft.

What makes this experience stand out? For starters, you’ll get exclusive access to remote arches like Corona, Tibbets, Jeep, and Uranium arches—sites you might never see from the ground unless you’re a serious climber or hiker. Second, the views of vivid redrock towers and buttes are simply stunning, offering an unforgettable backdrop for photography or just soaking in the scenery.

Of course, with only 30 minutes in the air, this isn’t an in-depth tour of the entire region, but it packs enough spectacular sights to make it a memorable highlight of your trip. A potential consideration is that the tour requires a minimum of two passengers, which could impact solo travelers or very small groups.

This experience is best suited for those with a sense of adventure who want a highly visual, once-in-a-lifetime view of Utah’s backcountry—especially if you’re short on time but eager for a unique perspective beyond the parks.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access — Fly over remote arches and formations hidden from the typical tourist trail.
• Stunning Vistas — Enjoy panoramic views of the vibrant red rock and buttes that make Moab famous.
• Knowledgeable Guides — The pilot acts as a guide, answering geologic questions and sharing insights.
• Ideal for Short Trips — Perfect if you’re limited on time but want a memorable aerial experience.
• Group Size & Cost — Usually with a minimum of 2 passengers, at $215 per person.
• Unmatched Perspective — See inaccessible parts of the region from a comfortable aircraft seat.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Moab Backcountry Scenic Flight

The Itinerary and What to Expect

This 30-minute flight begins at Canyonlands Field Airport, a small regional airport that’s easy to access from Moab. Once aboard a comfortably configured aircraft with window seats for each passenger, you’ll start your journey with a smooth takeoff into the Utah sky.

From the air, the landscape unfolds in all its rugged glory. The pilot guides you over the difficult-to-reach arches—Corona, Tibbets, Jeep, and Uranium—each with its own story and geological significance. Seeing these formations from above reveals the scale and complexity of Utah’s rock architecture better than any ground-based view.

Beyond arches, the flight also covers Mineral Bottom, Mineral Canyon, and the Colorado and Green Rivers. These waterways carve through the landscape, offering contrasting greens and blues against the reds and browns of the cliffs. You’ll also fly past Dead Horse Point State Park and Thelma and Louise Point, both iconic spots with legendary views.

The Potash Evaporation Ponds are visible, offering an unusual splash of industrial activity amid natural beauty. The flight also passes over The Moab Fault and Behind the Rocks, revealing the region’s geological history in a way that’s hard to appreciate from the ground.

Throughout the flight, you’ll be accompanied by a pilot-guide who shares interesting facts and answers questions—an aspect reviewers praise highly. One guest, Amandine from France, described her experience as “incredible to see from above the arches and river you hiked before,” emphasizing how the aerial perspective enhances your understanding of the landscape.

The Experience of Flying Over Remote Arches

What sets this tour apart is the sense of discovery. Most travelers know Utah for its majestic national parks like Arches and Canyonlands, but this tour reveals a less-traveled side—hidden arches and geological features that require special access.

Flying over Corona Arch, for example, offers a perspective that’s impossible from the ground—its immense span and intricate details become apparent only when seen from above. The colorful, dramatic scenery of tall buttes and towering rock formations is accentuated by the natural light, which varies depending on the time of day.

You’ll also gain a sense of geological scale and formation, with the pilot sharing insights that help make sense of the landscape’s history and evolution. This is a tour that’s as educational as it is visually impressive.

The Pros and Cons for Travelers

On the positive side, the aircraft provides a stable, comfortable platform with individual window seats, ensuring everyone has a great view. The small group size (minimum of two passengers) means a more intimate experience and plenty of opportunity to ask questions.

Price-wise, at $215 per person, the tour is a solid value considering the exclusive access and the rarity of seeing these formations from above. The fact that a knowledgeable pilot is guiding and providing commentary adds significant educational value.

However, the tour’s length is brief—only half an hour—which is enough to see several key formations but not to explore the entire region in detail. Also, it’s not suitable for children under 2, as car seats aren’t permitted, and it might not appeal to those uncomfortable with small aircraft or flying.

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Why It’s Worth Considering

If you’re a traveler who loves visual storytelling, aerial photography, or geology, this tour can be a highlight. It’s especially valuable for those on a tight schedule who want an impactful experience without dedicating hours.

The reviews reflect high satisfaction, with one guest calling the pilot “calm and knowledgeable,” and praising the views. The opportunity to see hidden arches and remote features makes this tour particularly special.

The Sum Up

This Moab Backcountry Arches Scenic Flight offers a rare window into Utah’s diverse geology, revealing sights that are often inaccessible to hikers or road travelers. Its short duration makes it an excellent choice for those with limited time, yet it delivers a big impact with stunning vistas and exclusive access.

The knowledgeable guides and comfortable aircraft ensure a smooth, informative experience that appeals to curious travelers who value authentic, less-crowded adventures. It’s particularly well-suited for geology buffs, photographers, or anyone eager to see Utah from a fresh vantage point.

While it’s not a comprehensive exploration of the region, this flight captures the essence of Utah’s rugged beauty in a compact, memorable package. For travelers seeking an unparalleled view of the backcountry—and a story to tell—this aerial tour is a compelling option.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The flight lasts approximately 30 minutes, providing a quick yet rundown of some of the region’s most stunning features.

What is included in the tour?
You get a pilot guide, a headset for commentary, and a window seat in a small, comfortable aircraft.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children under 2 aren’t permitted to sit in car seats and generally sit on a parent’s lap, making it suitable for most young children who can sit quietly.

Does the tour require a minimum number of people?
Yes, the tour operates with a minimum of 2 passengers. If you book alone, your flight might be canceled or rescheduled.

What is the price?
The tour costs $215 per person, which reflects the exclusive access and guided experience. It’s a good value for a private-guided aerial view.

Is transportation included?
No, the meeting point is the Canyonlands Field Airport in Moab. Transportation to and from the airport is not included.

When is the best time to fly?
Tours are usually available in the morning, afternoon, and evening—the time of day can influence the lighting and colors of the landscape.

What should I wear or bring?
Dress comfortably and be prepared for the weather—since this is an outdoor activity, layering is advised. Bring your camera or smartphone for photos.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case plans change.

If you’re eager for a bird’s-eye view of Utah’s hidden arches and remote landscapes, this scenic flight offers a compact but powerful glimpse into some of Moab’s most extraordinary geological features. It’s a solid choice for those who prioritize unique perspectives and authentic adventure over lengthy tours.

You can check availability for your dates here: