From 12-minute flyovers to extended scenic tours past Pikes Peak: here's what to expect from a Royal Gorge helicopter tour.
There's no perspective quite like seeing the Royal Gorge from a helicopter. Royal Gorge Helicopter Tours is the only local helicopter excursion company in the area, offering tours ranging from quick 12-minute flights to extended scenic journeys past Bighorn Sheep Canyon and the Rockies.
The Aircraft
Tours fly in Robinson R66 helicopters powered by Rolls Royce turbine engines. The R66 seats four passengers plus the pilot, with fantastic visibility from every seat. The turbine power provides increased performance and safety margins over piston-engine alternatives.
Tour Options
Royal Gorge Helicopters offers multiple tour tiers to fit different budgets and time:
The Quick Flight (~10 min): A thrilling ride over the Royal Gorge Bridge: ideal for birthdays, kids, and all-around fun. The most affordable option to experience helicopter flight.
The Standard Tour (~12 min): The popular "Royal Gorge Run" covers 24 miles through Royal Gorge country. More airtime means more chances to take in the massive canyon walls and the bridge from above.
The Best Value Tour (~20 min): The perfect balance between flight time and value. See everything the Royal Gorge has to offer from the air, including the bridge, the rapids, and the surrounding canyon system.
The Extended Tour (~25 min): Flies over both the Royal Gorge and the incredible Bighorn Sheep Canyon with views stretching to the Rockies and Pikes Peak.
The Ultimate Tour (~30 min): The longest option, featuring alpine landscapes, aspen groves, lakes, and the full scope of the Arkansas River Valley from above.
Prices and Booking
Tour prices range from $40 to $200 per person depending on the package selected. Tours depart from 45047 W US Hwy 50, Cañon City, right next to the Royal Gorge Rafting base. Open daily 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Cancellations made more than 48 hours before your tour receive a full refund. GoPro 360 cameras are available to rent for a small fee. You get the SD card and viewing software at the end.
Safety and Pilots
Pilots Eli Plavney and Will Sanders bring a combined 30 years and 8,000 hours of accident-free flying experience. The only restriction on board: no flash photography, to protect the pilot's vision.
Tips for the Best Experience
- Bring your smartphone or camera: photography and video are encouraged
- Morning flights tend to have the calmest air and clearest visibility
- Mid-morning and late-afternoon flights offer warm side-lighting that's great for photos
- Sit on the right side of the aircraft for the best bridge views on approach
- The helicopter base is directly next to our rafting check-in: easy to combine activities
Romance in the Air
Helicopter tours are our most popular proposal and anniversary experience. The pilots are experienced at coordinating proposal timing and can help make the moment perfect. Pair with dinner at Rooftop Social and an overnight in one of our luxury cabins for the ultimate romantic package: see our Sky High Romance itinerary.
