Grand Canyon: Helicopter & Ground Tour from Phoenix

Summary

Arizona’s wild shapes, canyon air and a sky-high flight

You’ll ride through changing Arizona landscapes from Phoenix to Grand Canyon South Rim with hotel pickup included. Fly 45 minutes by helicopter above sweeping canyon cliffs and follow your local guide along pine-scented trails at the rim. Expect moments of awe—maybe even a little vertigo—and time to wander or rest before heading back down Route 66.

What’s the experience like?

"You see that ridge over there? That’s where we’ll be flying," our guide said, pointing out past the van window as we left Phoenix. It was still early—felt like the city hadn’t woken up yet—and the air outside smelled faintly like dust and creosote. I’d never realized how quickly saguaros fade into pine trees until we were climbing out of the desert; one minute it’s all spiky arms and dry heat, then suddenly you’re surrounded by tall, dark-green pines. The road got quieter too, except for someone in back quietly snacking on trail mix (I still have no idea who kept crunching).

We rolled past Flagstaff—just a glimpse of Route 66 signs and a flash of old motels—then our driver pointed out the San Francisco Peaks in the distance. I remember thinking they looked almost blue against the sky. When we reached the Grand Canyon helicopter base, I was honestly more nervous than I expected. The pilot joked about “first-timers” and handed me headphones; I pretended not to be terrified but my palms were sweaty. Then suddenly we were up, swinging over the North Rim with nothing but glass between us and all that space. The Colorado River looked so thin from up there—it’s hard to explain how wide everything feels until you’re actually flying through the Dragon Corridor. My stomach did a little flip when we banked left; I tried to snap a photo but mostly just stared.

After landing, our guide led us back into Grand Canyon South Rim for some time on foot. The wind was colder than I’d packed for—should’ve listened about layers—and there was this resin smell from the pines along the rim trail. People were quiet at first, just taking it in; even kids seemed hushed for once. There was an older couple arguing gently about which overlook had better views (honestly, both were good). We wandered along for maybe an hour or so, stopping whenever someone wanted a photo or just needed to sit down and look out over that edge. It didn’t feel rushed at all—more like everyone had their own moment with it.

I still think about that view from above—the way shadows moved across the canyon walls while we hovered—and how strange it felt to be back on solid ground after seeing it all from so high up. On the drive home, someone finally asked if anyone else had cried during the flight (a few hands went up). So yeah, if you’re looking for a day trip from Phoenix that’s part road trip, part bucket-list flight, part just standing quietly at the edge of something huge… this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Grand Canyon helicopter and walking tour

• Depart Phoenix metro area
• Travel through Sonoran Desert and pine forests
• Pass Route 66 town of Flagstaff
• Check in for 45-minute helicopter flight
• Fly over 90 miles of Grand Canyon
• Explore Grand Canyon rim by foot
• Shop and take photographs at the rim
• Return to Phoenix area

Top questions

How long is the Grand Canyon helicopter & ground tour from Phoenix?

The full-day trip includes travel time from Phoenix/Scottsdale plus about 3 hours at Grand Canyon (including a 45-minute helicopter flight and time walking along the rim).

Is hotel pickup included for this Grand Canyon day trip?

Yes, pickup and drop-off are included for select hotels in Phoenix, Scottsdale or Tempe areas; otherwise you may need to meet at an alternate location.

How long is the helicopter flight over Grand Canyon?

The helicopter portion lasts approximately 45 minutes and covers over 90 miles of canyon scenery.

What should I bring for weather at Grand Canyon South Rim?

The South Rim is around 7,000 feet elevation—layers are recommended as it can be much cooler than Phoenix.

Can wheelchairs or walkers be accommodated on this tour?

Foldable wheelchairs or walkers can be brought on the vehicle but cannot be taken on the helicopter flight itself.

Are meals included in this tour?

No meals are included; bottled water is provided but you may want to bring snacks or purchase food during stops.

What is Route 66 like on this tour?

You’ll pass through Flagstaff with glimpses of Route 66 signs and classic roadside scenery as part of your journey north.

Is there a restroom on board?

No restroom onboard; comfort stops are made throughout the day during travel between destinations.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from select Phoenix area hotels, bottled water throughout your journey, guidance from a local expert driver-guide, plus your 45-minute ECO-Star helicopter flight over Grand Canyon before exploring more by foot along scenic rim trails.