South Rim Grand Canyon Helicopter Rides

Name: Canyon Spirit
Brand: Maverick Helicopters
SKU: CS
Price: 399.00 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.9 (417 reviews)

Highlights:

Enjoy the longest flight experience above GCNP
Soar over the Grand Canyon South & North Rims
Fly over the widest & deepest sections of the canyon
View the Dragon Corridor, the Confluence & Painted Desert

Duration:

Approx. 45 minutes

Departure Point:

Grand Canyon National Park Airport (driving directions)

Grand Canyon Spirit Tour

Canyon Spirit is a Grand Canyon helicopter tour that departs from the South Rim, taking you over the beautiful Kaibab National Forest, home to the world's largest stand of Ponderosa pines. Upon reaching the edge, the rim drops away as the magnificent Grand Canyon comes into full view.

Your journey follows the Colorado River from above, enjoying views of the Painted Desert and Desert View Watchtower, designed by legendary architect Mary Jane Colter in the distance. Crisp blue water swirls into dark green where the Little Colorado and Colorado Rivers meet at the confluence. Marvel at bird's-eye views of Point Imperial and Marble Canyon as you fly through the canyon and climb above the North Rim. Appreciate the beauty and mystique of Dragon Corridor, the widest and deepest portion of the Grand Canyon.

This Grand Canyon South Rim tour is the longest flight route offered over Grand Canyon National Park and provides memories to last a lifetime.

See our other Grand Canyon sightseeing tours.

Flight Route

*For your safety, please be advised that flight routes are subject to change depending on weather or other extenuating circumstances.

Tower of Ra

Maverick Terminal

Dragon Head

Nankoweap Mesa

Little Colorado River

Desert View Tower

Select a waypoint

Experience
Canyon Spirit

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What is the difference between Grand Canyon West Rim and Grand Canyon South Rim?

The Grand Canyon is mainly divided into two rims: the West Rim and the South Rim. The West Rim, located in Peach Springs on Hualapai Territory, is home to the Grand Canyon Skywalk. In contrast, the South Rim, situated in northwestern Arizona near Flagstaff, is part of Grand Canyon National Park.

02 How can I capture the best photos while visiting Grand Canyon National Park?

Grand Canyon National Park offers countless opportunities for photography, from exploring scenic hiking trails to visiting breathtaking viewpoints, and even experiencing the canyon from above on a helicopter flight! Check out our tips on how to capture the best photos of the Grand Canyon.

03 What is there to do at Grand Canyon National Park?

Guests at Grand Canyon National Park can look forward to a variety of outdoor adventures such as hiking, whitewater rafting, and mule rides, as well as stunning scenic viewpoints.

04 Where do I check in for my Canyon Spirit tour?

Guests must check in for their Canyon Spirit tour at Grand Canyon National Park Airport 30 minutes prior to their scheduled flight time. Our South Rim terminal address is 107 Corsair Dr, Grand Canyon Nat. Park Airport – Hwy 64, AZ 86023.

05 Can you see the North Rim on the Canyon Spirit?

Yes! Our Canyon Spirit offers views of the North Rim as the flight travels over some of the widest and deepest sections of the Grand Canyon. The canyon reaches depths of nearly 6,000 feet (1,829 meters) from the rim to the Colorado River, showcasing the immense scale and dramatic landscape of the canyon from above.

06 What is the best time of day to take a South Rim helicopter tour?

Our helicopter tours departing from the South Rim are available from early morning through mid-afternoon. The best time to fly ultimately depends on your preference, as the canyon takes on a different appearance throughout the day. Morning flights offer more defined shadows and details within the canyon, while afternoon flights provide brighter, more illuminated views. As the sun moves across the sky, changing light and shadows can enhance the canyon's colors, depth, and overall appearance.

07 Which South Rim helicopter tour is best for first-time visitors?

We recommend the Canyon Spirit! As our longest helicopter tour departing from Grand Canyon National Park, the Canyon Spirit showcases many of the Grand Canyon's most iconic sights, including Kaibab National Forest, the Painted Desert, Desert View Watchtower, Marble Canyon, the Dragon Corridor, and the remote North Rim.

08 How is the Canyon Spirit different from the Canyon Dancer?

The Canyon Spirit is nearly twice as long as the Canyon Dancer, with a 45-minute flight departing from Grand Canyon National Park. The tour travels a larger route, featuring views of Desert View Watchtower, Nankoweap Mesa, Dragon Head, and Tower of Ra. The Canyon Dancer is a 25-minute helicopter tour departing from Grand Canyon National Park, with a route that loops around Tower of Ra and Dragon Head.

09 What is the best time of year to take a Grand Canyon helicopter tour?

There's no bad time to experience the Grand Canyon by helicopter! Each season offers its own unique scenery and perspective. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and mild temperatures, while summer offers bright, sunny days and excellent views. In fall, the canyon's surrounding landscape comes alive with beautiful autumn colors, and winter transforms the rim with snow-covered scenery.

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Showing 1-5 of 417 reviews

Marina K., 15 hours ago

If you have time, that is the best invest on you holiday / trip / adventure ! Do it - you will not regret it.

Reply from Maverick Helicopters, 7 hours ago

We appreciate your recommendation, Marina. Thanks so much!! 🚁❤️

JIM MCMULLEN, 2 days ago

Experience of a lifetime

Reply from Maverick Helicopters, 7 hours ago

So glad to hear it, Jim. Thank you!

Debby, 2 days ago

Only way to fully experience the Grand Canyon

Reply from Maverick Helicopters, 7 hours ago

Thank you, Debby. We agree! 🚁❤️

Sandro Watrin, 2 days ago

Great flight, friendly pilot with good information about the flight and the environment. It was a great experience

Reply from Maverick Helicopters, 8 hours ago

We appreciate your kind words and are happy to hear you had a great experience. Thank you!

Jonathan Williams , 3 days ago

Exhilarating

Reply from Maverick Helicopters, 8 hours ago

We love to hear it, Jonathan. Thank you!

12 3 4 5...84 >>

Showing 1-3 of 417 reviews

Marina K., 15 hours ago

If you have time, that is the best invest on you holiday / trip / adventure ! Do it - you will not regret it.

Reply from Maverick Helicopters, 7 hours ago

We appreciate your recommendation, Marina. Thanks so much!! 🚁❤️

JIM MCMULLEN, 2 days ago

Experience of a lifetime

Reply from Maverick Helicopters, 7 hours ago

So glad to hear it, Jim. Thank you!

Debby, 2 days ago

Only way to fully experience the Grand Canyon

Reply from Maverick Helicopters, 7 hours ago

Thank you, Debby. We agree! 🚁❤️

12 3 4 5...139 >>

Canyon Spirit

From $399.00 Pricing may vary due to factors including seasonality, availability, and demand.
or from USD $43/mo