Thinking about adding a helicopter ride into your Vancouver adventure? This Backcountry Beer Tasting Heli-Tour combines the thrill of flying over the rugged Coast Mountains with a chance to relax with craft beer in the wild. It’s a unique way to see some of the most inaccessible natural beauty around, paired with a well-curated beer tasting from Twin Sails Brewery. Whether you’ve never flown in a helicopter before or are a seasoned traveler craving something different, this experience promises memorable sights and flavors.
We particularly love the stunning aerial views and the knowledgeable guides who bring the region’s natural beauty alive. The remote mountain landing feels like a private escape, away from crowds. Plus, the beer tasting offers a surprisingly authentic local touch—craft beers that truly complement the scenery.
One thing to keep in mind is that flight availability depends on weather and group size—so flexibility might be necessary. This tour suits those who enjoy scenic adventures, craft beer enthusiasts looking for a special twist, or travelers wanting to tick off a once-in-a-lifetime experience in British Columbia.
Key Points
- Spectacular scenic flight over Vancouver’s Coast Mountains with lush forests, rugged peaks, and alpine lakes.
- Exclusive landing in a remote mountain location for 30 minutes of peaceful nature.
- Craft beer tasting curated by Twin Sails Brewery, designed to match the scenery and enhance your experience.
- Knowledgeable guides and pilots who share engaging commentary on the region’s natural highlights.
- Group size is limited to 10 travelers, promoting a more intimate experience, though single travelers must book two seats.
- Weather-dependent: flights may be canceled or rescheduled depending on conditions, with full refunds if weather is poor.
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Contents
- Key Points
- A Closer Look at the Itinerary
- The Beer Tasting Experience: More Than Just a Sip
- Practical Details and Logistics
- Authentic Reviews from Real Guests
- Cost and Value Analysis
- Who Is This Tour Best For?
- The Sum Up
- FAQ
- Our Top Picks in Vancouver
- More Food & Drink Experiences in Vancouver
- More Tours in Vancouver
- More Tour Reviews in Vancouver
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Vancouver we have recnetly reviewed
A Closer Look at the Itinerary
The adventure kicks off at the SKY Hangar in Pitt Meadows, just a short drive from Vancouver. From there, the 30-minute scenic helicopter flight whisks you over the Coastal Mountain Range, renowned for its vast temperate rainforests, towering peaks, and glimmering lakes. As you soar, your pilot will point out landmarks and share insights into the area’s natural history—something guests like “Kyle” excel at, according to reviews. Expect views that make you feel like you’re floating above a postcard, with plenty of space to marvel at the wilderness below.
Landing in a remote mountain spot—typically at around 5,000 feet—offers a chance to breathe in the crisp mountain air and enjoy the silence only nature provides. The landings are flexible, varying from day to day, but no matter where you set down, the scenery will be unforgettable. Guests describe the landing site as a “perfect spot,” and some liken it to scenes from movies like Twilight, thanks to the lush, untouched surroundings.
The 30-minute stop gives enough time to unwind, take photos, and soak in the tranquility of the mountains. It’s a brief but meaningful pause in the chaos of daily life, with plenty of natural beauty to admire.
After the land, you’ll return to the helicopter for the second part—the craft beer tasting curated by Twin Sails Brewery. The beers are carefully selected to complement the environment, making each sip feel like an extension of the scenery. Guests have called it “the best patio in town,” which captures the feeling of enjoying local brews while surrounded by mountain views.
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The Beer Tasting Experience: More Than Just a Sip
The highlight of this tour is, of course, the craft beer tasting. Curated by Twin Sails Brewery, known for their innovative and quality brews, this tasting is designed to enhance your connection to the region. Whether you prefer hoppy IPAs, smooth lagers, or non-alcoholic options, there’s something for all. The inclusion of non-alcoholic beverages upon request ensures that everyone can partake and enjoy.
The beers are selected to pair with the mountain scenery, making each sip a reminder of the wild beauty outside. Guests report that the tasting adds an extra layer of enjoyment, transforming what might be just a sightseeing flight into a true culinary adventure.
Practical Details and Logistics
Total duration is approximately one hour, with about 30 minutes of flight time split into two legs and a 30-minute stop at the mountain site. This compact timeframe packs a punch, offering a taste of wilderness and local flavor without taking up a whole day.
Pricing is roughly $383 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. But when you consider the private helicopter flight, the remote landing, and the curated beer tasting, the value becomes clearer. It’s a premium experience—yet, one that’s hard to replicate through other means.
The tour is limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience. The minimum passenger requirement is two, and travelers are encouraged to book well in advance—on average, about 23 days ahead—to secure a spot. This planning helps avoid disappointment, especially during peak seasons.
Transportation to the meeting point at the Sky Hangar is relatively straightforward, and the location is near public transportation options, making logistics easier for visitors.
Authentic Reviews from Real Guests
Guests consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Kyle and Roger, describing them as “extremely knowledgeable” and “friendly companions.” Their commentary enhances the scenery, making it more than just a flight but a storytelling journey. One reviewer shared, “Kyle described various landmarks and history as we flew, which made the experience even richer.”
Many reviewers mention the stunning views—from lush rainforests to glacial lakes—and how the pilot’s expertise helped them feel comfortable and engaged, even for first-time helicopter flyers. One said, “The flight was comfortable, and our guide Roger was cheerful and showed us some great spots along the way.”
Despite some rainy weather during one trip, guests still found the experience “perfect,” highlighting the tour’s flexibility and the pilot’s professionalism. The remote location, resembling scenes from Twilight, tends to leave visitors awe-struck, with comments like “the place where we went was perfect, just like in the movies.”
Cost and Value Analysis
While $382.58 per person might seem high, consider what’s included: a 30-minute scenic helicopter flight, a private land stop, and a craft beer tasting curated by a respected local brewery. This combination offers a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s unlikely to be matched elsewhere in Vancouver.
The small group size and personalized service elevate the value, making it more than just a sightseeing tour. It’s an opportunity to see wilderness from a perspective few get to experience and enjoy local craft beers in a setting that’s both exclusive and authentic.
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Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a taste of wilderness combined with luxury. It appeals to craft beer lovers eager to enjoy local brews in a stunning setting. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the remote landing and the breathtaking views, while those celebrating special occasions may find it a memorable way to mark a birthday or anniversary.
It’s less suited for travelers on a tight budget or those with mobility issues, given the helicopter component and remote landing. Also, since weather can affect scheduling, flexibility is helpful. But if you’re looking for a unique, high-impact experience that combines scenic flightseeing with local flavor, this tour hits the mark.
The Sum Up
The Backcountry Beer Tasting Heli-Tour offers a rare blend of adventure, natural beauty, and local craft beer, making it a standout experience near Vancouver. The spectacular aerial views and knowledgeable guides turn what might be a simple flight into a memorable story to tell. The opportunity to land in a remote mountain spot provides a sense of escape and tranquility, while the curated beer tasting adds a fun, flavorful layer to the journey.
For those who crave a mix of adrenaline, scenery, and a taste of local culture, this tour delivers a uniquely Canadian experience. It’s suited best for travelers seeking something extraordinary—whether for a special occasion or a bucket-list adventure—and who don’t mind a premium price for a truly personalized encounter.
If you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines the best of British Columbia’s wilderness with its craft beer scene, this heli-tour might just be the highlight of your trip.
Backcountry Beer Tasting Heli-Tour & Landing (Depart SKY Hangar)
“What an unbelievable experience! We flew with Roger, who was knowledgeable and super friendly, and the booking process was amazing thanks to Alanna…”
FAQ
How long is the total tour?
The experience lasts about one hour, including about 30 minutes of flight time and a 30-minute stop on the mountain.
What’s included in the price?
The tour includes the helicopter flight, landing fees, fuel surcharge, and a craft beer tasting curated by Twin Sails Brewery.
Can I participate if I’m traveling alone?
Yes, but you will need to purchase at least two seats. The company tries to pair solo travelers with others, but if you are the only booking, the tour may be canceled.
Is there an age restriction?
Yes, participants must be 19 or older to consume alcohol in British Columbia, though non-alcoholic beverages are available.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If poor weather cancels the flight, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, offering a more intimate experience compared to larger tours.
This helicopter and craft beer adventure offers a fantastic way to see British Columbia’s wild side while enjoying some of the best local brews. Perfect for those looking to combine adrenaline, scenery, and flavor into one memorable experience.
