Moab’s Best Backcountry Arches Scenic Flight

If you’re considering a way to see Moab’s spectacular landscapes from a new perspective, the Moab’s Best Backcountry Arches Scenic Flight might just be what you’re after. While I haven’t personally taken this specific tour, the reviews, itinerary, and details paint a pretty clear picture of what to expect. It’s an experience designed for those who really want to get a bird’s-eye view of some of Utah’s most famous sights—without the strenuous hike.

What I love about this experience is the chance to soar over hidden arches and towering rock formations that are usually off-limits by foot, and to gain a new appreciation for the scale and beauty of the landscape. Plus, the live narration and window seats for everyone promise a smooth, engaging flight that helps you understand what you’re seeing. On the flip side, it’s a short tour—just about 30 minutes—so if you’re looking for an extended adventure or in-depth exploration, this might feel a bit rushed.

This scenic flight seems like a solid choice for anyone who loves breathtaking views and wants to tick off a bucket-list experience with minimal hassle. It’s especially appealing if you’re seeking a quick, memorable sightseeing highlight that fits into a busy travel itinerary. If you’re after a laid-back but impressive aerial adventure, keep reading; this review covers what you really need to know.

Key Points

• Stunning views of Moab’s iconic arches, canyons, and rivers from the air
• Knowledgeable guides provide live narration, enhancing the experience
• Comfortable seating with window access for every passenger
• Short but sweet 30-minute flight, ideal for a quick scenic highlight
• Limited group size (up to 20 travelers), offering a more intimate experience
• Good value considering the unique perspective and included amenities

A Closer Look at the Moab Scenic Flight Experience

When we talk about exploring Moab, most think of hiking or off-road adventures—both fantastic ways to get close to the terrain. But sometimes, seeing the land from above gives you a whole new appreciation. That’s where this 30-minute scenic flight from Redtail Air stands out. It’s designed to offer a quick but immersive aerial tour of some of Utah’s most famous landmarks, with the added bonus of a live narration.

The Itinerary: A Flight Over Moab’s Natural Masterpieces

The tour begins at 94 W Aviation Way, where you’ll meet your pilot, and it wraps back up at the same point. From there, you’ll take off and immediately start soaring over Moab’s famous arches, towers, and monuments. These are the sights most visitors get a glimpse of from the ground, but from the air, they take on a whole new dimension. The perspective is both humbling and awe-inspiring, allowing you to see the intricacies of the landscape in a way that’s impossible on foot.

First Stop: Corona Arch
The highlight for many is flying directly over the Corona Arch, a huge, partially freestanding formation that stretches 140 feet high with a 105-foot opening. It’s a true natural marvel that’s often compared to Rainbow Bridge but with its own dramatic flair. Flying above it, you get a full sense of its scale and grandeur, something even the most scenic hikes can’t quite replicate.

Next: Dead Horse Point State Park
The tour also includes a flyover of Dead Horse Point, perched 2,000 feet above the Colorado River. The panoramic views here are world-famous, with the deep canyons and winding river creating a landscape that looks almost painted. Many reviews mention how breathtaking it is to see this viewpoint from the sky, providing a perspective that’s nearly impossible to capture on the ground.

Final: Colorado and Green Rivers
Flying along the Colorado and Green Rivers, you’ll witness the massive canyonlands carved over millennia. These rivers have shaped the terrain and continue to weave through the landscape, and from above, you can really grasp their meandering paths and the scale of the canyon formations.

The Experience: What It Feels Like

Most reviewers seem to agree that the live narration is one of the tour’s strengths. It helps connect the dots between the formations you see and their names or significance, making the flight educational as well as visually stunning. The window seats for everyone mean no one gets shortchanged on views, and the headsets ensure you can hear the guide clearly in the small aircraft.

The aircraft itself is a small, up to 20-passenger plane—big enough to avoid feeling cramped, but intimate enough to give a sense of personal space. The pilots are described as friendly and knowledgeable, adding a layer of comfort to the experience.

Practicalities and Pricing

At $236 per person, this tour might seem like a splurge, but considering it’s a quick, unique perspective of Moab’s most iconic sights, many feel the cost is justified. The fact that it’s booked roughly 2 months in advance indicates it’s popular, and for good reason. The tour is straightforward: a 30-minute flight, all taxes and fees included, with complimentary water inside the terminal.

You’ll want to arrive a little early to check in, but overall, the process is smooth. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most being able to participate. Service animals are allowed, and the activity is weather-dependent—if conditions aren’t good, you’ll have the option to reschedule or get a full refund.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This scenic flight is perfect for adventure lovers who want a quick but impactful way to see Moab’s landscapes. If you’re a photographer, you’ll appreciate the incredible vantage points. It’s also a great option for those who don’t have the time or energy for long hikes but still want to see the area from a different angle.

Travelers with an interest in geology or natural formations will find the narration informative and engaging. It’s also a good choice for people traveling with friends or partners—groups are small enough to keep it personal, but big enough to keep the atmosphere lively.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re looking for a memorable, visually stunning experience that captures Moab’s rugged beauty from an unbeatable angle, this flight is worth considering. The views of Corona Arch, Dead Horse Point, and the Colorado River are truly special, and the friendly guides help make the trip both educational and fun.

This isn’t a tour for those seeking an extended aerial adventure or a multi-hour flight—it’s short, sweet, and packed with jaw-dropping scenery. For the price, you get a front-row seat to some of Utah’s most breathtaking landscapes, which many travelers describe as a highlight of their trip.

If you’re comfortable in small aircraft and eager to see Moab’s landscapes from above, this tour should definitely be on your list.

FAQs

How long is the scenic flight?
The tour lasts about 30 minutes, offering a quick but impactful view of Moab’s landscape.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes window seats for everyone, live narration, headsets for clear communication, complimentary water, and all taxes and fees.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. If canceled less than 24 hours in advance, the full amount won’t be refunded.

Is the tour suitable for most travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. Weather conditions are a factor, so cancellations due to poor weather are possible.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at 94 W Aviation Way, Moab, UT.

What’s the maximum group size?
Up to 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience more personal and comfortable.

Is this a family-friendly activity?
While no specific mention is made about children, the short duration and accessible format suggest it can be suitable for most ages. However, always check with the provider if traveling with young kids.

All in all, the Moab’s Best Backcountry Arches Scenic Flight offers a captivating way to see Utah’s rugged beauty from above. It’s a perfect pick for those who love stunning vistas and are looking for a memorable, hassle-free adventure.