Secret Wilderness – 45 Mile Helicopter Tour in Sedona

Introducing the Tour – What You Need to Know

If you’re looking for a quick but breathtaking peek at Sedona’s hidden corners, the Secret Wilderness – 45 Mile Helicopter Tour might just be what you need. We haven’t personally taken this flight, but based on reviews and details, it promises a short, scenic adventure that reveals some of Sedona’s lesser-known landscapes.

Two things we really like about this experience are the expert guidance from knowledgeable pilots and the stunning vistas you get to see from above. It’s a condensed trip in a turbine helicopter, designed to maximize your view and keep the experience intimate—limited to just six passengers.

One potential drawback? At just 30 minutes, it’s a brief outing—so if you’re craving a more extensive helicopter experience, this might feel a little rushed. But for many, that’s perfect: a quick thrill that doesn’t take up your whole day.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate gorgeous scenery, love quick but memorable adventures, and want to see Sedona’s secret spots without a long commitment. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with others who want a shared, scenic experience that’s both accessible and impressive.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Short but impactful: A 30-minute flight that covers over 45 miles of scenic wilderness.
• Expert pilot guidance: Knowledgeable pilots provide a guided tour of the landscape, adding depth to the visuals.
• Limited group size: Small groups of just 6 participants ensure personal attention and better views.
• Unmatched views: Designed specifically for travelers with a helicopter built for optimal sightseeing.
• Comfort and convenience: Includes noise-reducing headsets, air conditioning, and photos before/after the flight.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and pay later options add flexibility.

The Actual Experience – What You Can Expect

When you arrive at the meeting point, it’s straightforward to find: after passing the four-way stop, a restaurant sits on your right and an all-red building on your left. Enter the red building to check in. The check-in process is simple, and staff are friendly and efficient, which is always a plus when you’re eager to start your adventure.

Once aboard the helicopter, you’ll notice it’s a turbo-helicopter with six passenger seats—meaning you won’t be crowded, and each passenger gets a good view. The helicopter is built especially for travelers, with large windows and noise-reducing headsets, so you can hear the pilot and appreciate the scenery clearly.

The flight typically takes about 30 minutes, which is enough time for a substantial overview of the landscape. The route includes highlights such as the Munds Mountain Wilderness Area, the Secret Wilderness Area, and Gunsight Pass, along with Boynton Canyon. These are some of Sedona’s most captivating and less famously crowded spots, making this tour a good choice for those who want to see the “hidden” parts of the region.

During the flight, your pilot acts as a guide, pointing out notable features, wildlife, and geological formations. According to reviews, the guides are knowledgeable and engaging, making the experience both visually stunning and educational.

The Vantage Points – Scenic Highlights

The views are what this tour is all about. From above, you’ll see the sweeping red rock formations, deep canyons, and perhaps even some local wildlife. The route takes you over areas that are generally not accessible by land, providing a perspective that’s both unique and awe-inspiring.

The Gunsight Pass is especially picturesque, with its sharp, narrow cleft framed by towering red rock cliffs. Boynton Canyon offers a sweeping view of the rugged terrain, famous for its natural beauty. The Secret Wilderness Area is, as the name suggests, a more tucked-away part of Sedona, and flying over it gives you a sense of discovery.

Passengers have noted the stunning scenery and the clarity of the views—something you’d miss from the ground. The helicopter’s design allows for expansive windows, so every seat offers a nearly perfect vista.

Comfort, Safety, and Extras

The helicopter is equipped with noise-reducing headsets so you can easily hear your guide and enjoy the silence of the wilderness. Air conditioning is available, making the experience more comfortable, especially during warmer months. Photos are available before or after the flight, so you can capture the moment without the rush.

The tour is operated by Apex Air Tours LLC, and the small group size (limited to 6 participants) ensures everyone gets a good view and personal attention. The experience is designed to be both safe and enjoyable, with clear instructions and a professional crew.

More Great Tours Nearby

Pricing and Value – Is It Worth It?

At $438 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but considering the personalized experience, expert guidance, and the stunning aerial views, many find it worth the expense. It’s a compact trip, but it packs in over 45 miles of scenery in just 30 minutes, which provides a good balance between cost and experience.

If you’re someone who values unique perspectives of a landscape and enjoys quick, high-impact activities, this can be a solid investment. Plus, the ability to cancel up to 24 hours before and book now/pay later offers flexibility—a smart move for planning trips.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This helicopter ride is perfect for travelers who want a shortcut to stunning views, especially if you’re short on time but still want an unforgettable experience. It suits those who appreciate expert guides, compact excursions, and scenic vistas that are inaccessible by land.

It’s a good choice for couples, groups of friends, or adventurous solo travelers. If you’re traveling with children or have mobility considerations, it’s best to confirm with the operator, but generally, this experience is more suitable for older children and adults due to the nature of helicopter riding.

Final Thoughts

The Secret Wilderness – 45 Mile Helicopter Tour offers a swift yet spectacular way to see parts of Sedona that few get to experience from above. The combination of expert narration, beautiful scenery, and a small, comfortable helicopter makes it an appealing choice for those who want a memorable, scenic adventure.

While it’s a relatively short trip, the views are stunning enough to satisfy most travelers looking for that quick “wow” moment. The organized, professional approach means you can relax and enjoy the ride without worry, and many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides as a real highlight.

If your goal is to see some of Sedona’s secret spots from an unbeatable perspective, this helicopter tour will deliver a memorable experience, especially if you’re comfortable with the modest price tag. It’s an excellent way to add a splash of adventure to your Sedona trip without taking up your whole day.

FAQs

Do I need to prepare anything before the flight?
You just need to arrive at the designated meeting point, check in at the red building, and follow the instructions. No special preparation is mentioned.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, giving you flexibility in your trip planning.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing is recommended. Since it’s a helicopter ride, avoid loose items that could get caught, but no specific dress code is mentioned.

How many people are on each helicopter?
The helicopter is small, limited to 6 passengers, which helps ensure good views and personal attention.

Are photos included?
Yes, photos are taken either before or after the flight, so you can have a keepsake of your experience.

Is this suitable for children?
The data doesn’t specify, but helicopter tours generally have age and weight restrictions. It’s best to check with the provider directly.

What’s the best time of day for the tour?
It’s usually available in the morning, afternoon, and evening, so you can choose a time that fits your schedule.

What kind of views will I see?
Expect sweeping views of Sedona’s iconic red rocks, canyons, and wilderness areas, including Gunsight Pass and Boynton Canyon.

How long is the actual flight?
The helicopter ride lasts approximately 30 minutes, covering over 45 miles of scenic landscape.

If you’re after a quick, visually stunning adventure with expert guidance, the Secret Wilderness helicopter tour is worth considering. It’s a neat way to see Sedona’s hidden gems from a perspective that’s both exhilarating and educational, all in just half an hour.

You can check availability for your dates here: