Vancouver: Helicopter Tour with Backcountry Beer Tasting

Thinking about adding a bit of adventure and local flavor to your Vancouver trip? This helicopter tour with a backcountry beer tasting offers a unique way to see British Columbia’s rugged wilderness while sampling some of the West Coast’s best craft brews. It’s a combo that’s perfect if you love scenic views and enjoy discovering regional flavors — all from the comfort of a helicopter.

What caught our eye? First, the aerial views of the Coast Mountains promise jaw-dropping scenery, and second, the exclusive backcountry landing offers a rare glimpse of untouched wilderness. That said, it’s not for everyone—if you’re not comfortable with heights or have mobility considerations, this might need some extra thought.

This experience is ideal for travelers who crave something memorable, love nature, and appreciate craft beer. If you’re after a blend of adventure and local culture, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Scenic Flight: Enjoy a narrated 30-minute helicopter ride over the stunning Coast Mountains, with views of old-growth forests, alpine lakes, and snow-capped peaks.
• Exclusive Wilderness Landing: Landing in remote BC wilderness sites inaccessible by roads, offering a true escape into nature.
• Craft Beer Sampling: Taste four unique West Coast craft beers, highlighting BC’s vibrant microbrew scene.
• Limited Group Size: Small group tours (up to 5 people) mean more personalized experiences and better chances for great photos.
• Weather Considerations: As with any mountain or coastal activity, weather can change quickly; confirming flight details before the trip is recommended.
• Cost and Value: At $371 per group, it’s a premium experience, but one that combines spectacular views with a fun tasting in the wild.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Helicopter & Beer Tour

This isn’t just a scenic flight—it’s a thoughtfully designed adventure that blends the thrill of helicopter travel with the taste of locally brewed craft beers in a setting most of us only dream about.

The Scenic Flight

Your journey begins with a 30-minute narrated helicopter flight over the Coast Mountains. This area is renowned for its striking jagged peaks, sprawling old-growth forests, and pristine alpine lakes. Your pilot will share insights into the landscape, making the views not just beautiful but also engaging and educational. It’s a chance to see BC from above, feeling like you’re on top of the world, yet in a safe, controlled environment.

Based on reviews, guests loved the way the pilot, Stephanie, “worked hard to give us a great wilderness experience,” which hints at a knowledgeable guide who makes the flight more enriching than just looking out the window. Expect to see some of the most iconic scenery in the region, all from a bird’s eye view.

The Backcountry Landing

The highlight for many is the 30-minute landing in a remote part of BC’s wilderness. Accessible only by helicopter, these sites are untouched by roads or trails, making them feel like a true hidden gem. Imagine stepping out into a quiet, pristine landscape, surrounded by towering peaks and lush forests.

Guests have shared that this part of the tour makes the experience stand out, as it’s not just about the flight but about actually setting foot in these untouched zones. It’s an unusual opportunity that only a handful of people in the world will get to enjoy.

Beer Tasting in the Wilderness

After landing, you’ll enjoy sampling four handpicked West Coast craft beers. The tour emphasizes local brews and offers a chance to taste regional flavors you might not find outside of BC. The fact that the tasting happens in the backcountry adds a bonus element—imagine sipping a craft brew in the midst of wilderness, with panoramic mountain views all around.

Guests have described this part as fun and memorable, with the brewery offerings adding a layer of local culture to the adventure. It’s a great way to unwind after the flight and landings, especially for those who appreciate good beer and outdoor scenery.

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Practical Details & Considerations

The tour lasts about an hour, including the flight and landing, with options available in the morning, afternoon, and evening. The group size is limited to five, which allows for a more intimate experience and better photo opportunities.

Since the experience is in a remote location, no food is included—bring along snacks if you like, but the focus is on the flight and tasting. You’ll need comfortable shoes, sun protection, camera, sunscreen, water, and weather-appropriate clothing, as mountain weather can be unpredictable.

Pricing & Value

At $371 per group, it’s definitely a premium price, but a fair one considering the exclusive nature of the experience—the scenic flight, remote landing, and craft beer tasting are all included. Reviewers have noted the experience as “very much loved,” especially for its stunning views and knowledgeable guides, making it a worthwhile splurge for those who value memorable adventure and local culture.

Why This Tour Works Well

This tour is especially suited for those who want more than the usual sightseeing. If you’re into outdoor adventures, unique travel experiences, or craft beer, it hits all those notes. It’s also perfect if you’re comfortable with flying and have a sense of adventure.

Keep in mind, the minimum of two purchased seats per flight is important—if you’re traveling solo, you might be paired up, or the trip could be canceled if no other bookings are available.

Who Should Consider This Experience

• Adventure lovers eager to see BC from above
• Craft beer enthusiasts wanting to sample local brews in a special setting
• Travelers looking for a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience
• Those comfortable with small group tours and quick weather changes
• People seeking an exclusive, off-the-beaten-path activity in Vancouver’s vicinity

It’s not quite suited for folks under 19 or those who need accessible options, as the activity involves helicopter travel and remote terrain.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour meeting point is at a designated spot with free parking on-site.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about 1 hour, including the flight and landing.

Can I book this last minute?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and weather-appropriate clothing, as mountain weather can change quickly.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not explicitly stated as family-friendly, and generally, such helicopter experiences are best suited for travelers over 19.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Weather can vary and change quickly in the mountains. Confirm your flight details the day before, and the company might reschedule if conditions aren’t safe.

What is the group size?
Limited to 5 participants, making for a more intimate and personalized experience.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, passengers over 300 lbs (136 kg) are not accommodated.

How professional is the pilot?
The pilot is experienced and provides a narrated tour, adding value and insights into the landscape.

Can I expect to get good photos?
Absolutely—small group sizes and scenic views make it easier to capture great shots, especially with the expert pilot’s guidance.

Final Thoughts

This helicopter tour with backcountry beer tasting offers a rare opportunity to combine breathtaking scenery with the enjoyment of local craft beers — all in a setting most travelers never get to see. It’s a memorable way to experience BC’s wilderness, especially if you’re looking for something active yet relaxed, scenic yet flavorful.

The experience’s limited group size and knowledgeable guides mean you’ll get plenty of personalized attention, making it not just a flight but a true adventure. It’s definitely on the pricier side, but for many, the access to untouched wilderness paired with a tasting in such a remote spot makes it a worthwhile splurge.

In the end, this tour is best suited for adventurous spirits, craft beer aficionados, and those wanting a distinctive story to tell. If that sounds like your kind of experience, it might just be one of the most memorable parts of your Vancouver trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: