Great Salt Lake Flying Tour

If you’re considering a different way to see Utah’s iconic landscapes, a flight over the Great Salt Lake might just be the adventure you’re looking for. We haven’t done this specific tour ourselves, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed info, it’s clear that this experience offers a unique perspective on one of Utah’s most fascinating natural features.

What we love about this tour is how it combines stunning aerial views with a chance to see local wildlife in their natural habitat. The idea of soaring over the expansive Salt Lake and Antelope Island sounds magical, especially since you get to see animals like bison, elk, antelope, and even eagles from the air. Plus, the fact that the tour leaves no ecological footprint is a major plus in today’s eco-conscious travel scene.

One potential consideration is the price of $289 per person—for some, that might feel a little steep for a 40-minute flight. But when you think about the value of those views, the chance to fly low and slow, and the expertise of the pilot, many find it to be well worth it. This tour is truly aimed at travelers who want a memorable, visually stunning experience and are comfortable with small aircraft. It’s excellent for those who love wildlife spotting, scenic photography, or just want to see Utah from a fresh angle.

If you’re after an adventure that provides both excitement and a deeper appreciation of Utah’s landscapes, this flying tour is a pretty solid choice. It’s especially good for folks who enjoy a bit of thrill alongside their sightseeing, and for those who value expert guides who are passionate about the area.

Key Points

• Bird’s eye views of the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island, offering a perspective impossible from the ground
• Wildlife sightings, including bison, elk, antelope, and eagles, as seen from the sky
• No ecological impact, making it an environmentally friendly way to explore
• Expert pilot who provides engaging commentary and ensures safety
• Flexible and private experience just for your group
• Cost of $289 per person balances the uniqueness of the experience with its exclusivity

Why This Tour Stands Out

The Great Salt Lake Flying Tour is all about experiencing Utah’s renowned natural beauty from a bird’s eye view. What sets it apart is the combination of expansive vistas and close-up wildlife encounters. As one reviewer highlighted, “Neil is a wonderful pilot and the flight was amazing. We loved seeing animals, especially the bison on Antelope Island.” This kind of firsthand wildlife spotting is difficult to achieve from other vantage points, making the tour feel quite special.

The flight itself lasts about an hour, but the core part for most travelers is the 40-minute aerial adventure. Half of that time is spent high above, gazing at the vast, shimmering lake and surrounding landscapes. The other half, “low and slow,” gives you a feeling that’s more like driving in a flying car—intimate and immersive. One review mentions, “Neil was very enthusiastic and made our flight a lot of fun. We saw more of Antelope Island from the air than I did on the ground,” which perfectly captures the value of experiencing the area from above.

The pilot’s knowledge and personable approach consistently come up in reviews, with many describing Neil as friendly, informative, and attentive. This level of engagement enhances the tour, making it more than just a sightseeing flight—it’s a guided experience with a passionate expert who genuinely loves sharing his knowledge.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins at Skypark Airport in Woods Cross, UT, where a quick safety briefing sets the tone for the adventure. This is a private activity, so only your group will be onboard, adding a personal touch to the experience.

Once in the aircraft, the first phase of the flight takes you high above the Salt Lake. From this vantage point, you’ll appreciate the scale of this vast saltwater body, which has been evolving for over 14,500 years since its formation during the Bonneville flood. The expansive views reveal the intricate patterns and changing shoreline, giving you a real sense of the lake’s size and beauty.

The highlight for many is the wildlife viewing. As you glide over Antelope Island, the aircraft often catches sight of bison grazing, along with elk, deer, and sometimes coyotes. Eagles are also spotted, making for incredible photo opportunities. One reviewer noted, “Getting to fly over Antelope Island and the Great Salt Lake was such a cool way to see more than by car or foot. Neil is so personable and a great communicator pre-tour.”

The “low and slow” portion of the flight allows you to feel like you’re in a flying car, close enough to see details on the landscape and wildlife. This part of the experience is particularly appreciated by those who want a more immersive perspective and the chance to snap some photos.

Finally, the tour concludes back at Skypark Airport, with most travelers feeling that they’ve gained a new appreciation for Utah’s natural wonders—without any negative ecological impact.

The Experience: What Really Matters

One of the best things about this tour is the combination of scenic grandeur and wildlife encounters. Seeing animals like bison and antelope from the air, especially when Neil points out their specific locations, makes the experience feel authentic and educational. Several reviews mention how peaceful and magical it was to fly low near the Salt Lake, with one customer describing it as “so peaceful and magical.”

The pilot’s professionalism and friendliness are consistently praised. Neil’s obvious enthusiasm and extensive knowledge make the flight not only enjoyable but also informative. Many reviewers, such as “He is a great pilot and made it fun,” highlight how easy he makes the experience, which can be reassuring if you’re nervous about flying.

The price point of $289 per person might seem high for just 40 minutes in the air, but when you consider the exclusive nature of the experience, the wildlife sightings, and the unbeatable views, it often feels justified. Several reviewers argued it’s worth every penny, describing the flight as a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience and highlighting how it exceeded their expectations.

The flexibility and privacy of the tour are also notable. Since it’s a private activity, your group gets a tailored experience, which adds to the sense of specialness. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with safety measures in place, and service animals are allowed.

Practical Details and Tips

Starting at Skypark Airport, the check-in process is straightforward. The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, including safety briefings, with half the flight dedicated to the breathtaking views, and the other half to wildlife viewing at a leisurely pace.

The aircraft used is a small plane, which appeals to those seeking a more intimate experience. It’s a good idea to dress warmly, especially in winter, as one review suggests. The tour operates in good weather—if the weather turns poor, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, thanks to the flexible cancellation policy.

The maximum group size is just your own group, making for a personalized experience. Since the flight is around 40 minutes, it’s perfect for fitting into a busy travel schedule while still providing plenty of awe-inspiring sights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This is an ideal experience for wildlife enthusiasts, scenic lovers, or those wanting a memorable adventure in Utah. People who enjoy photography, birdwatching, or just the thrill of flying in a small aircraft with an informed guide will find a lot to love here.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who are comfortable with small planes and want a private, personalized outing. If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy nature and adventure, this could be a highlight of your trip. However, if you’re wary of flying or have mobility issues, check with the provider beforehand.

The Sum Up

The Great Salt Lake Flying Tour offers an experience that combines breathtaking panoramic views with wildlife encounters in a way that’s hard to match from land-based visits. The expertise and friendliness of the pilot, Neil, paired with the eco-friendly approach, make it a responsible yet exciting choice for those wanting to see Utah’s iconic landscapes from a new perspective.

While the price may seem steep for some, many reviewers agree that the views, wildlife sightings, and personal touches make it a worthwhile investment. From the peaceful float over the lake to the exhilarating low-and-slow flying, this tour is best suited for travelers who value unique, scenic experiences and are comfortable flying in a small aircraft.

If your goal is to see Utah’s natural beauty from a fresh angle, with the added bonus of wildlife sightings and expert commentary, this tour will likely leave you with memories to cherish—and plenty of stunning photos.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The flight lasts about 40 minutes, with the total experience being approximately 1 hour including safety briefings and prep.

What is the price?
The tour costs $289 per person, which many find reasonable given the exclusive, private nature of the experience, and the views you’ll get.

What wildlife can I see?
Common sightings include bison on Antelope Island, along with elk, deer, antelope, coyotes, and eagles.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience just for your group, which allows for a more personalized and flexible experience.

What should I wear?
Dressing warmly is advisable, especially in winter, as you’ll be flying at altitude and the air can be cooler.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are poor, the tour will be canceled or rescheduled. You can get a full refund if canceled within 24 hours of the booking.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

Is there a minimum age?
The data doesn’t specify age restrictions, but since it involves flying in a small aircraft and wildlife viewing, it’s best to check directly with Neil if traveling with children.

If you’re after a truly memorable way to experience Utah’s landscapes, this flying tour over the Great Salt Lake might just be the adventure that elevates your trip.