July 4th is one of the most important holidays in the United States. As the nation celebrates its independence and freedom, why not make the holiday special with a tour on one of the impressive Grand Canyon helicopters?
One thing you need to be aware of though, the July 4th weekend can get incredibly busy. So book now to ensure you can fly on the day you want, at the time that's most convenient for you.
Options
Grand Canyon helicopters depart from both Las Vegas, and Tusayan in nearby Arizona. Tours from Vegas fly exclusively to the West Rim, while those that depart from Tusayan will cover the South and North Rims, and the eastern boundary of the Grand Canyon National Park.
If you're in Las Vegas but want to see the rugged wilderness of the North and South Rims, you could always take a connecting airplane flight that takes you directly to Tusayan.
Tours Leaving from Las Vegas
You will be able to choose from flights that make aerial passes over the Canyon, or if you want some more adventure, you could even choose from a number of landing tours.
All tours that leave from Las Vegas will fly over the massive and impressive Hoover Dam, so there's even some nice sightseeing before you reach the Canyon itself.
Personally, I love the landing tours. There's one that will take you right to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, setting you down alongside the Colorado River. There's a Champagne Picnic which can help you to celebrate the 4th in style. You could even combine different options such as a Colorado boat ride, or a walk out on the Skywalk at the top of the Grand Canyon.
Exploring the Remote South Rim
Helicopters aren't allowed to land at the South Rim, but this doesn't mean that you're going to miss out on some seriously epic sightseeing. The first helicopter tour available from Tusayan follows a 30 minute route. It heads to the North Rim, flies back over the South Rim, and then it's back to the helipad. If you can spend a little more, I highly recommend the extended tour. This covers everything that the 30 minute tour does, but adds in a 20 minute flight out to the park's eastern boundary. On this extended tour you will see up to 75% of the Grand Canyon National Park, so it is well worth the money.
Basic or Deluxe
There are two kinds of Grand Canyon helicopters that offer tours. Basic, and Deluxe. Basic tours use older Bell helicopters. They're fantastic for sightseeing, but there is an upgrade with the deluxe operators. On a deluxe tour, you will be treated to a stadium style seat in a newer Ecostar 130. This chopper has a huge panoramic windscreen, is quieter inside, and every seat in the cabin is placed for optimal viewing.
Deluxe tours also offer limousine shuttles, and they fly directly from the Strip if you're taking a West Rim tour.
Dress for the Conditions
Temperatures will be soaring over Independence Day Weekend, so make sure you cover up with light clothing, use a high SPF sunscreen, and bring glasses and a hat if you're going to be taking a landing tour. Helicopters are climate controlled, so above all, just make sure that you're comfortable. Don't forget to bring water in your pack, too.
Conclusion
I can't recommend air tours at the Grand Canyon enough! Out of all the helicopter tours in the US, these are my favorites. Don't forget that you have plenty of options from Las Vegas and Tusayan, so make sure you choose the best flight to suit your budget.
Lastly, make sure that you book online, and book as soon as possible. You will save money when you book online, and the sooner you book, the more chance you'll have of flying when you want to.
The Grand Canyon is truly an amazing place. See it the best way possible with air tours in a Grand Canyon Helicopter.
Martin Wynn
