McCall, Idaho offers breathtaking helicopter tours that showcase the area’s stunning landscapes. From short flights over Payette Lake to extended adventures exploring the Payette National Forest, these tours provide unparalleled views of the region’s natural beauty. Visitors can choose from various tour options, including scenic flights, custom charters, and even breakfast excursions, all offering unique perspectives of McCall’s mountains, lakes, and forests.
What Types of Helicopter Tours Are Available in McCall, Idaho?
McCall offers a diverse range of helicopter tour options to suit different preferences and budgets:
- McCall Helicopter Adventures:
- The Lake Loop (10 minutes)
- The Lookout (20 minutes)
- The Peak to Peak (40 minutes)
-
The Adventurer (60 minutes)
-
McCall Aviation:
- Scenic Tours (various durations)
- Custom charters
- Breakfast flights
- Hunting and fishing charters
- Rafting excursions
Each tour provides a unique experience, from quick overviews of McCall and Payette Lake to extensive explorations of the surrounding wilderness.
What Can You Expect to See on a McCall Helicopter Tour?
Depending on the tour you choose, you can expect to see:
- Payette Lake
- McCall town
- Brundage Resort
- Tamarack Resort
- Granite Lookout
- Jughandle Mountain
- Boulder Mountains
- Nick Peak
- Snowslide Peak
- Sawtooth Peak
- Countless alpine lakes and creeks
- Payette National Forest
- WWII B23 bomber crash site at Loon Lake (on longer tours)
How Much Do Helicopter Tours in McCall Cost?
Pricing for helicopter tours in McCall varies based on the duration and route:
Tour Name | Duration | Price per Person |
---|---|---|
The Lake Loop | 10 minutes | $75 |
The Lookout | 20 minutes | $145 |
The Peak to Peak | 40 minutes | $275 |
The Adventurer | 60 minutes | $375 |
McCall Aviation offers custom pricing based on the specific tour and requirements. It’s best to contact them directly for detailed quotes.
When Is the Best Time to Take a Helicopter Tour in McCall?
While helicopter tours in McCall operate year-round, each season offers a unique perspective:
- Summer: Ideal for clear views of lakes and forests
- Fall: Spectacular autumn foliage colors
- Winter: Snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes
- Spring: Blooming wildflowers and rushing waterfalls
The best time depends on your preferences and the specific scenery you wish to experience.
How Do You Book a Helicopter Tour in McCall?
Booking a helicopter tour in McCall is straightforward:
- Choose your preferred tour operator (McCall Helicopter Adventures or McCall Aviation)
- Visit their website or call directly
- Select your desired tour package
- Choose a date and time
- Provide necessary information and make payment
- Receive confirmation and tour details
It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.
What Should You Bring on a McCall Helicopter Tour?
To make the most of your helicopter tour experience, consider bringing:
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Sunglasses to reduce glare
- Light jacket (temperatures can be cooler at higher altitudes)
- Comfortable, closed-toe shoes
- Photo ID
- Motion sickness medication if prone to airsickness
Are There Any Age or Weight Restrictions for McCall Helicopter Tours?
While specific restrictions may vary by operator, general guidelines include:
- No minimum age, but children must be accompanied by an adult
- Maximum weight limits (usually around 300 lbs per person)
- Combined passenger weight restrictions based on helicopter capacity
It’s best to check with the tour operator for their specific policies.
What Safety Measures Are in Place for McCall Helicopter Tours?
Helicopter tour operators in McCall prioritize safety:
- Regular maintenance and inspections of aircraft
- Experienced, FAA-certified pilots
- Pre-flight safety briefings for all passengers
- Adherence to FAA regulations and guidelines
- Weather monitoring and flight cancellations if conditions are unsafe
Can You Customize a Helicopter Tour in McCall?
Yes, both McCall Helicopter Adventures and McCall Aviation offer customization options:
- Extended flight times
- Specific areas of interest
- Special occasions (proposals, anniversaries)
- Photography flights
- Combination with other activities (fishing, hiking, etc.)
Contact the operators directly to discuss your custom tour requirements and pricing.
What Makes McCall Helicopter Tours Unique Compared to Other Scenic Flights?
McCall helicopter tours offer several unique advantages:
- Unparalleled Views: Helicopters can fly lower and hover, providing better photo opportunities.
- Access to Remote Areas: Reach locations inaccessible by other means.
- Flexible Routes: Pilots can adjust flight paths based on passenger interests.
- Intimate Experience: Smaller group sizes for a more personal tour.
- Year-round Operation: Experience McCall’s beauty in every season.
These factors combine to create an unforgettable aerial adventure over McCall’s stunning landscapes.
References:
1. McCall Helicopter Adventures
2. McCall Aviation
3. Visit McCall – Scenic Tours