Overview of This Zion National Park Helicopter Tour
The RV Odd Couple takes a first-time helicopter tour over Zion National Park in Utah, capturing 4K aerial footage of one of America's most dramatic landscapes. The tour operates from Zion Helicopters, located near the park, and offers a perspective of the canyon that ground-level visits simply cannot match. This is a real-world account of what to expect: the sensations, the views, the preparation, and honest feedback from someone experiencing their first flight.
This experience suits adventure travelers who want to see Zion from above, families looking for a memorable outing, and anyone curious about aerial tours but unsure whether they can handle the ride. The video combines stunning scenery with practical tips and candid reactions, making it useful whether you're confident about heights or nervous about motion sickness.
Key Moments
Highlights of the Zion Helicopter Experience
- Takeoff and the pilot's hard bank turn at approximately 120 miles per hour to test passenger comfort
- Flying over massive cliffs and experiencing 50–60 foot updraft drops and rises from wind currents
- Aerial views of Zion's towering red rock formations and canyon walls from directly above
- The seamless landing procedure, which passengers found less intimidating than airplane descents
- Real-time reactions from first-time helicopter passengers, including a young child's enthusiasm
- 4K footage showcasing details of the landscape impossible to capture from the ground
What to Know Before Booking Your Zion Helicopter Tour
- Weight screening: The operator weighs all passengers on a scale before boarding for safety and weight-distribution reasons; empty your pockets beforehand.
- Safety briefing: Expect a thorough safety demonstration at the beginning, including information on the spinning propeller, fuel fumes, and puke bag locations.
- Ear pressure: Bring gum or be prepared to pop your ears during altitude changes to avoid discomfort.
- Headphones are essential: Unlike planes, helicopter noise is loud enough that you'll need headsets to hear the pilot or communicate with others.
- Fuel smell: Some passengers in certain seats may detect gasoline fumes; inform the crew if this occurs and they can open windows to ventilate.
- Aggressive turns: The pilot may perform steep bank turns for footage and to assess passenger tolerance; these are normal but can feel intense.
- Discount available: Zion Helicopters offers 10% off tours when you mention the RV Odd Couple video and note that you're a member of their RV Odd Squad community.
- Contact: Call 435-668-4185 or visit zionhelicopters.com to book.
Common Questions About Zion Helicopter Tours
Will I get motion sickness on a helicopter?
The video shows that helicopter flights are rougher than airplane flights, with noticeable up-and-down movement from cliff updrafts and sharp turns. Motion sickness is a real possibility, especially in the rear seats where fuel fumes may also be more noticeable. If you're prone to motion sickness, warn the crew beforehand so they can help you manage it—and know that puke bags are provided for a reason.
How long is the actual flight time?
The video does not specify the total flight duration. You should contact Zion Helicopters directly at 435-668-4185 to confirm how long your specific tour lasts, as this varies by tour package.
What is the takeoff experience like?
Takeoff is unlike a plane: the helicopter rises more vertically and the sensation is notably different. In the video, the pilot performs a hard bank turn at about 120 miles per hour shortly after takeoff, which is used both to position for the route and to gauge passenger comfort with the ride. Be prepared for this unusual sensation if you've never flown in a helicopter before.
Do I need to worry about the helicopter's safety?
The operator conducts a formal safety briefing that covers the spinning propeller, fuel fumes, and emergency procedures. The video shows that the pilot is experienced and skillful, and the flight itself operates smoothly. Standard safety protocols are in place and enforced.
Can I bring a camera or phone?
The video features high-quality 4K footage captured during the tour, suggesting that cameras are permitted. However, you should confirm the specific rules about personal devices and whether you need to secure them when booking. The helicopter's windows and open-door design provide excellent photo opportunities.
