Soaring above Yellowstone’s wilderness by air offers unforgettable views, though these flights actually use small Cessna planes rather than helicopters.
Four standout tours showcase different aspects of America’s first national park. The basic 30-minute skyline route giving spectacular views of the Lionhead Mountains and Madison Range is perfect for first-timers.
My favorite is the fascinating 30-minute seismic tour, which reveals the dramatic changes from the 1959 earthquake.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the 45-minute Continental Divide flight, where you’ll spot the exact point where waters split toward different oceans.
For the complete experience, the hour-long “Trifecta” tour combines the best elements of all routes.
Expert pilots provide clear, informative commentary throughout each flight.
Let’s explore the top aerial tours available:
Key Points
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Aerial tours from West Yellowstone Airport provide a variety of personalized Cessna 182 flights, ranging from 30-minute to 1-hour experiences.
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The 30-minute Yellowstone Skyline tour offers scenic highlights of the Lionhead Mountains and Madison Mountain Range, led by a knowledgeable local pilot.
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The 30-minute Yellowstone Seismic tour explores the effects of the 1959 Yellowstone earthquake, including views of Earthquake Lake and Hebgen Lake.
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The 45-minute Continental Divide tour allows guests to observe the geographical significance of where rivers flow to the Gulf of Mexico and Pacific Ocean.
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The 1-hour Trifecta tour combines the highlights of multiple tours, providing a comprehensive aerial experience with extensive insights from the pilot.
West Yellowstone: 30 Minute Aerial Tour Yellowstone Skyline
If you’re seeking a thrilling aerial adventure in West Yellowstone, the 30-Minute Aerial Tour of the Yellowstone Skyline is a must-do. This private tour for 2-3 participants departs from the West Yellowstone Airport, providing you with a bird’s-eye view of the area’s stunning landscapes.
Soar over the Lionhead Mountains and Madison Mountain Range, taking in the scenic vistas of steep mountain faces, jagged cliffs, and breathtaking backdrops.
Your local pilot, with extensive knowledge of the West Yellowstone region, will guide you through this exclusive aerial tour. Priced at Kč6,364 per person, the experience offers flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Seize this unique opportunity to elevate your adventure and witness the majestic beauty of the mountains from above. The small group size ensures a personalized experience as you savor the stunning aerial views.
Check availability for specific tour times and prepare for an unforgettable journey over the Yellowstone Skyline.
Read our full review: West Yellowstone: 30 Minute Aerial Tour Yellowstone Skyline Review
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West Yellowstone: 30 Minute Aerial Tour Yellowstone Siesmic
Soaring above the West Yellowstone skyline, the 30-Minute Aerial Tour of the Yellowstone Seismic takes you on a captivating journey through the region’s turbulent geological history.
Experience the dramatic impact of the 1959 Yellowstone earthquake, a 7.2-magnitude event that reshaped the landscape, creating Earthquake Lake and triggering landslides.
From the comfort of your private Cessna 182 plane, you’ll enjoy unparalleled aerial views of Hebgen Lake, Earthquake Lake, and the surrounding mountains, rivers, and the historic epicenter of the quake.
This unique small-plane tour, available only from the West Yellowstone Airport, offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to witness the lasting effects of this natural disaster.
With a knowledgeable local pilot at the helm, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the region’s seismic activity and infrastructure improvements made since the event.
Priced from $265.33 per person, this 30-minute tour is a must-do for anyone captivated by the powerful forces that have shaped Yellowstone’s dramatic landscape.
Read our full review: West Yellowstone: 30 Minute Aerial Tour Yellowstone Siesmic Review
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West Yellowstone: 45 Minute Aerial Tour Continental Divide
From the comfort of a private Cessna 182 aircraft, you’ll embark on a 45-minute aerial tour that showcases the breathtaking Continental Divide mountains and waterways originating from Yellowstone National Park.
This private tour, priced at $332 per person, offers a unique bird’s-eye perspective of the region’s remarkable landscape.
Your local pilot will provide live commentary in English, sharing insights into the significance of the rivers and how they’ve shaped the American West.
You’ll witness where water flows east to the Gulf of Mexico and west to the Pacific Ocean, a testament to the power of nature.
The tour isn’t suitable for those prone to claustrophobia, vertigo, altitude sickness, or motion sickness, and there are weight restrictions for participants.
Be sure to dress appropriately and leave any prohibited items, like alcohol and drugs, at home.
When you arrive, look for the Fly Yellowstone sign and meet your pilot there.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this aerial adventure offers a truly unforgettable experience.
Read our full review: West Yellowstone: 45 Minute Aerial Tour Continental Divide Review
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West Yellowstone:45 Minute Aerial Tour Rugged Mountains
Hop aboard a private Cessna 182 and embark on a 45-minute aerial exploration over the rugged Rocky Mountains surrounding West Yellowstone.
Soar above the towering peaks that rise over 2 miles high, enjoying spectacular views of the alpine lakes and streams below. As your local pilot provides insightful commentary, you’ll gain a new appreciation for the grandeur of this untamed landscape.
The tour departs from 629 Airport Rd, where you’ll meet your pilot and prepare for takeoff.
With a maximum capacity of 3 passengers, this intimate experience offers an unparalleled perspective of the region. Just be aware of the weight restrictions – the combined participant weight mustn’t exceed 600 lbs, and individuals over 250 lbs can’t participate.
After your aerial adventure, you’ll return to the starting point, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Don’t forget to dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes for a comfortable flight.
Read our full review: West Yellowstone:45 Minute Aerial Tour Rugged Mountains Review
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West Yellowstone:1 Hour Aerial Tour the Trifecta
For those seeking a more comprehensive aerial adventure, the 1-Hour Aerial Tour the Trifecta offers a unique perspective of the West Yellowstone region. Priced at $397.34 per person, this private tour for up to 3 people combines highlights from the Skyline Tour, Continental Divide Tour, and Rugged Mountain Tour in a single flight.
Take in breathtaking views over the Continental Divide and West Yellowstone Valley, and learn about the history of the 1959 earthquake and surrounding mountains. The skilled local pilot guide provides extensive knowledge to enhance the experience.
While not suitable for those with certain medical conditions, the tour’s flexible booking and cancellation policy make it an accessible option. Prepare for the exhilaration of flight by dressing weather-appropriately and meeting at the Fly Yellowstone sign at the airport.
Discover the region’s natural beauty and geology from a new vantage point on the 1-Hour Aerial Tour the Trifecta.
Read our full review: West Yellowstone:1 Hour Aerial Tour the Trifecta Review
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Recap
You’ll find a variety of thrilling helicopter tours in West Yellowstone, from the 30-minute Yellowstone Skyline and Yellowstone Seismic flights to the longer 45-minute Continental Divide and Rugged Mountains tours. For the ultimate aerial experience, consider the 1-Hour Trifecta tour, which combines the best sights. Whichever option you choose, you’re sure to enjoy breathtaking views of Yellowstone’s natural wonders from above.