Last weekend, my family and I had the opportunity to go on a sunset helicopter ride via Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters. It was SO incredible!
We took off from the air terminal near Grand Canyon Village and flew over the Kaibab National Forest. The views from above were breathtaking over the Colorado River and the canyon’s North Rim. We also saw the Tower of Ra and Vishnu Schist flying through the Dragon Corridor before touching back down at the helipad.
Now, I’ve had some questions and a few raised eyebrows as to why we chose this form of transportation, so I’ll give my top 3 reasons.
1. Stunning aerial views!
Sure you can drive to the Grand Canyon and look at it if from the ground. But if you want to really see the vast beauty of this National Park, there is nothing quite like the view from above. For me, it was like having a spiritual experience. I was in such awe of God’s magnificent creation…it almost made me cry.
You can see some of the widest and deepest regions of the Grand Canyon, the Colorado River, the forests of the North Rim and incredible rock formations. These impressive sights are only possible from the air.
2. Environmentally friendly
An air tour is actually one of the most environmentally friendly ways to experience this majestic natural wonder. It assists the NPS with their mission to “conserve the scenery and the natural and historical objects and the wildlife therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations.” See National Park Service Organic Act, 16 U.S.C.
Papillon also seeks to create minimal ecological impact aboard their state-of-the-art ECOStar helicopters. These aircraft are designed with quiet technology and the most eco-friendly way to see the canyon from the sky.
3. Positive memorable experience
Aboard the helicopter we wore headsets with a guided tour given by the pilot. Multilingual options are also available for narration if needed. Although the mouthpieces were disabled (due to COVID restrictions) we still enjoyed listening, learning and viewing together.
Since my daughter has special needs, hiking is a difficult task for her, especially over rocky terrain. This was the perfect way for her to see the Grand Canyon without physical limitations. She felt secure in her seat with her safety belt and was not afraid. Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can also be stowed onboard if necessary.
This was truly an unforgettable trip for our whole family. I hope you will add a helicopter ride to your bucket list!