If you're trying to come up with a fun way to celebrate winter season, then you should consider taking a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon. You may think winter isn't a good time to go to the Canyon, but actually, a layer of light snow only adds to its spectacular beauty. Snow is more likely at the South Rim than at the West Rim, because the altitude there is over 6,000 feet above sea level.
The South Rim
Known as the "real" Grand Canyon, the South Rim is just west of Flagstaff, in central AZ. That makes it the perfect place to visit if you're in Phoenix, Sedona, Flagstaff or Scottsdale. However, if you're staying in Vegas instead, you can take a bus or plane to the South Rim for your tour. Going by airplane is best since the flight takes about an hour and if you go by bus, you're looking at a 5 1/2 hour ride each way.
There are two types of helicopter rides at the South Rim: 50-minute tours and shorter, 30-minute flights. I strongly prefer the longer version - it's much more comprehensive, covering the South, North and East Rims. The 30-minute tour flies from the South Rim to the North Rim and back. It's a terrific way to get the flavor of the National Park.
There's a new tour I've heard about that sounds pretty exciting. It upgrades the 30 minute flight with a 4x4 tour at sunset. This tour ends when your 4x4 drives you to scenic Hopi Point at dusk. Along the way you'll get to see one of the National Park's hidden, elevated fire towers.
Vegas Tours
Las Vegas is the departure point for all West Rim helicopter rides. The West Rim is closer to Vegas, while the South Rim is so far away, it is out of the flight range of Vegas helicopters. There aren't any connecting flights between the West and South Rims.
You can take an air only helicopter tour out of Vegas, or you can book one that lands at the Canyon. The both follow the same route to the Canyon and fly over the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead along the way.
If it fits in with your time allotment and budget, you should really consider taking a landing tours. Landing tours are a terrific way to experience the National Park in all its glory. Float trips down the Colorado River and VIP passes to the Skywalk are popular add-ons, but the most popular option of all is the chopper flight to the Canyon floor followed by a champagne picnic. The air-only version is a terrific choice for people who are short on time or have a limited budget.
Sell Outs
These helicopter tours are very popular and they fill up fast, so you need to book early to secure your seats. It's best to get your tour locked in at least four days or more in advance so a tour will be available on the day and time you want to fly.
Remember, you'll need to dress for the winter weather. Since there may be snow at the South Rim, you'll want to wear warm pants, a jacket, gloves, a hat, and sturdy shoes. It won't be as cold at the West Rim, but it can still be chilly, so dressing in layers is a good idea. Sun protection is necessary at both rims, so bring sunglasses, lip balm, and extra water too.
If you'll be in Arizona or Vegas over the holiday season, then consider treating yourself to a fun helicopter ride over the Canyon. It'll be a holiday celebration you won't forget!
The South Rim
Known as the "real" Grand Canyon, the South Rim is just west of Flagstaff, in central AZ. That makes it the perfect place to visit if you're in Phoenix, Sedona, Flagstaff or Scottsdale. However, if you're staying in Vegas instead, you can take a bus or plane to the South Rim for your tour. Going by airplane is best since the flight takes about an hour and if you go by bus, you're looking at a 5 1/2 hour ride each way.
There are two types of helicopter rides at the South Rim: 50-minute tours and shorter, 30-minute flights. I strongly prefer the longer version - it's much more comprehensive, covering the South, North and East Rims. The 30-minute tour flies from the South Rim to the North Rim and back. It's a terrific way to get the flavor of the National Park.
There's a new tour I've heard about that sounds pretty exciting. It upgrades the 30 minute flight with a 4x4 tour at sunset. This tour ends when your 4x4 drives you to scenic Hopi Point at dusk. Along the way you'll get to see one of the National Park's hidden, elevated fire towers.
Vegas Tours
Las Vegas is the departure point for all West Rim helicopter rides. The West Rim is closer to Vegas, while the South Rim is so far away, it is out of the flight range of Vegas helicopters. There aren't any connecting flights between the West and South Rims.
You can take an air only helicopter tour out of Vegas, or you can book one that lands at the Canyon. The both follow the same route to the Canyon and fly over the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead along the way.
If it fits in with your time allotment and budget, you should really consider taking a landing tours. Landing tours are a terrific way to experience the National Park in all its glory. Float trips down the Colorado River and VIP passes to the Skywalk are popular add-ons, but the most popular option of all is the chopper flight to the Canyon floor followed by a champagne picnic. The air-only version is a terrific choice for people who are short on time or have a limited budget.
Sell Outs
These helicopter tours are very popular and they fill up fast, so you need to book early to secure your seats. It's best to get your tour locked in at least four days or more in advance so a tour will be available on the day and time you want to fly.
Remember, you'll need to dress for the winter weather. Since there may be snow at the South Rim, you'll want to wear warm pants, a jacket, gloves, a hat, and sturdy shoes. It won't be as cold at the West Rim, but it can still be chilly, so dressing in layers is a good idea. Sun protection is necessary at both rims, so bring sunglasses, lip balm, and extra water too.
If you'll be in Arizona or Vegas over the holiday season, then consider treating yourself to a fun helicopter ride over the Canyon. It'll be a holiday celebration you won't forget!
About the Author:
Grand Canyon authority Jacky Archer recommends tourists look into these Canyon helicopter tours. She also recommends going here for bargains that make these rides much less expensive: http://www.grandcanyonhelicopter.org/grand-canyon-helicopter-tour-coupons.html
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