If you’re dreaming of seeing the Canadian Rockies from above, a helicopter tour like this is a fantastic way to do it. We haven’t flown this particular route ourselves, but from what we gather, it’s a well-designed experience that offers some truly stunning views. It’s perfect for those wanting to get a taste of the mountains’ majesty without a multi-hour commitment or strenuous hikes.
One thing we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines iconic sights—like The Three Sisters and Mt Assiniboine—with a bit of Hollywood magic, thanks to a flyover of Spray Lake Valley. Plus, it’s a quick, half-hour flight that still packs in plenty of jaw-dropping scenery. That said, a potential snag is the minimum group size—it requires at least two people to go, so if you’re traveling solo, you’ll need to find someone to join you or wait until others book.
This tour suits travelers who love spectacular natural scenery, are curious about the Rockies from above, or want a memorable photo opportunity. It’s also a good pick for visitors in the Canmore or Banff area looking for a comfortable, guided experience with minimal fuss.
Key Points
- Stunning aerial views of the Canadian Rockies and iconic peaks like Mt Assiniboine.
- A well-structured route that includes the Continental Divide and Hollywood-famous Spray Lake Valley.
- Short but sweet at 45 minutes, making it manageable for most schedules.
- Photo-worthy moments as you fly close to glaciers and mountain summits.
- Group size requirement of at least two participants, which might affect solo travelers.
- Includes parking fees, but no hotel transfers are provided.
A Closer Look at the 45-Minute Continental Divide Heli Tour
This helicopter tour from Canmore offers a glimpse into some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Canadian Rockies. The entire experience is tailored to maximize visual impact within a compact 45-minute window, making it an excellent choice if you’re after a memorable, scenic flight without dedicating a whole day.
Planning more time in Kananaskis? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point and Check-In
Your adventure begins at Alpine Helicopters located in a cozy log building in Canmore. The check-in process is straightforward — just arrive a little early to handle any paperwork and get comfortable. Parking is included, which is a relief, especially if you’re driving from Banff or nearby towns. However, keep in mind that hotel transfers aren’t included, so plan your transportation accordingly.
The Flight Path – What You’ll See
Once aboard the well-maintained helicopter, the journey kicks off with a scenic flyover of the Bow River, giving you a chance to get a preview of the landscape. The real highlight kicks in as you approach the Three Sisters, a trio of prominent peaks that define Canmore’s skyline. We imagine the views here are both dramatic and distinctive, perfect for snapping photos.
As you pass through the Three Sisters Pass, the helicopter glides into the Spray Valley. From above, you’ll see Spray Lakes reservoir on the left and Goat Pond on the right—both of which have been featured in Hollywood films, adding a touch of cinematic magic to your experience. The flying continues over the Goat Range, with spectacular views of snow-capped peaks and rugged terrain.
One of the most impressive parts of the flight is approaching Mt Assiniboine, often called the “Matterhorn of the Rockies,” which tops out over 12,000 feet. The helicopter gets close enough to glaciers and peaks for generous photo opportunities. Many reviews mention how close you can get to the glaciers, providing a sense of scale and grandeur that’s tough to match elsewhere.
The Continental Divide and Beyond
One of the flight’s unique features is crossing the Continental Divide—the natural boundary separating waters flowing east into the Atlantic Ocean and west into the Pacific. Flying over this divide offers a symbolic and scenic highlight of your trip, as you literally traverse a geographical line that shapes North America’s landscape.
Further into British Columbia, you’ll see Aurora Mountain, Mt Alcantara, and Mt Byng—each with their distinctive shapes and rugged beauty. The route then takes you along the south side of Spray Lakes, before winding back through Stewarts Gap and into the Bow Valley, with Canmore gradually coming back into view.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Experience and What You’ll Love
From start to finish, the tour provides ample opportunity for photos and videos. The pilot’s narration isn’t detailed in the info, but on similar tours, pilots often share interesting tidbits about the landmarks. The views are described as “stunning” by those who have taken the trip—they say the scenery is jaw-dropping, with peaks, glaciers, and lakes all laid out in their full glory.
This experience is particularly suited for photography lovers; with good weather, you’ll have a lot of chances to capture the natural beauty of the Rockies from vantage points inaccessible by foot. Expect the helicopter to fly smoothly, with windows that allow good visibility for everyone onboard.
What to Expect During the Tour
The entire flight lasts about 45 minutes, which flies by (pun intended). It’s a comfortably paced trip, with the helicopter taking you from Canmore, through mountain passes, over glaciers, and back into the valley.
The meeting point is simple to find, and check-in is quick. Since the helicopter seats are well-maintained, you should feel safe and at ease, even if you’re a bit nervous about flying. The group size minimum of two means you might be sharing the experience with another traveler, but that also keeps the flight more lively.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The price of $437 per person might seem steep at first glance, but for the scenery and experience, it’s quite reasonable. The package covers the helicopter ride and parking fees, but you’ll need to organize your own transportation to and from Canmore if you’re staying elsewhere. Hotel transfers aren’t included, so if you prefer door-to-door service, you might need to arrange that separately.
Accessibility and Flexibility
The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is great news for travelers with mobility concerns. The activity is also flexible in terms of booking—if you reserve in advance, you can choose your preferred morning or afternoon slot, and you can cancel up to 24 hours ahead for a full refund.
Is This Tour Worth It?
Considering what’s included—the chance to soar above some of the most iconic peaks and glaciers in the Rockies—the value of this tour hinges on your interest in aerial views and photography. It’s a relatively short flight, but it delivers a concentrated dose of scenery that many find unforgettable.
If you love mountain vistas, glaciers, and the thrill of flying, this will likely meet your expectations. The views of the glaciers and the chance to cross the Continental Divide are particular highlights that stand out in travelers’ reviews.
However, if you’re after a more immersive land-based experience or longer tours, this might feel a bit rushed. The minimum group size requirement could also pose a challenge if you’re traveling solo or in a small group; you might find yourself waiting for others to sign up or joining a flight already scheduled.
Who Should Consider This Experience?
This helicopter tour is best suited for travelers who want a quick, visually spectacular adventure. It’s perfect if you’re in the Canmore or Banff area, looking for an easy but memorable way to see the Rockies from above. Photographers and scenery lovers will especially appreciate the close-up views of glaciers and peaks.
Those who enjoy a comfortable, guided experience with minimal effort will find this a worthwhile option. It’s not overly adventurous or physically demanding, so it’s accessible to most people in good health.
Final Thoughts
The Canmore 45-minute Continental Divide Heli Tour offers a well-paced, visually stunning flight that showcases the best of the Rockies from the sky. It delivers incredible views of iconic mountains, glaciers, and lakes, making it a worthwhile splurge for anyone keen on capturing the scale and beauty of this mountain range.
While it’s not a lengthy tour, its focus on key sights and the chance to fly over the Continental Divide mean you’ll come away with memorable photos and a fresh appreciation for the Rockies’ rugged landscape. The experience’s convenience, combined with its focus on breathtaking scenery, makes it a solid choice for travelers seeking a high-impact, short adventure.
If you’re looking for a manageable way to see the mountains from a new perspective and don’t mind the group size requirement, this helicopter tour could be just the thing to elevate your trip.
Canmore: 45-Minute Continental Divide Heli Tour
FAQ
How long is the helicopter tour?
The flight lasts approximately 45 minutes, offering plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.
Where does the tour start?
It departs from Canmore, with check-in at the Alpine Helicopters Inc. office, located in a log building in the town.
Are parking fees included?
Yes, parking is included in the price. However, hotel transfers are not, so you’ll need to arrange your transportation.
Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, the tour requires a minimum of two participants. You might have to join others or wait for enough bookings to proceed.
Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.
If you’re after a scenic, memorable flight that captures the essence of the Rockies, this tour is a strong contender. It balances a manageable timeframe with incredible vistas and the thrill of flying over some of Canada’s most iconic landscapes.
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