Helicopter Tours Yellowknife: Soar Above the Arctic Wilderness

Helicopter tours in Yellowknife offer a unique perspective of Canada’s stunning Northwest Territories. These aerial adventures provide breathtaking views of the city, Great Slave Lake, and the surrounding wilderness. With flight durations ranging from 15 to 90 minutes, visitors can experience the beauty of Yellowknife from above, witnessing its natural wonders and urban landscapes. Tours are available in autumn and winter, offering diverse seasonal experiences and the potential for Northern Lights viewing.

What Are the Key Features of Helicopter Tours in Yellowknife?

Helicopter tours in Yellowknife are characterized by their ability to provide unparalleled views of the region’s natural beauty and urban landscape. Here are some key features:

  1. Panoramic views of Great Slave Lake
  2. Aerial perspective of Yellowknife’s cityscape
  3. Sightings of local wildlife (depending on the season)
  4. Experienced pilots with local knowledge
  5. Opportunities for aerial photography

These tours typically cover significant landmarks such as:

  • The Legislative Assembly
  • Old Town
  • Bush Pilot’s Monument
  • Surrounding wilderness areas

What Types of Helicopters Are Used for Tours in Yellowknife?

helicopter tours yellowknife

The helicopters used for tours in Yellowknife are selected for their reliability, safety, and suitability for Arctic conditions. Here’s a breakdown of the common types:

Tour Operator Helicopter Model Passenger Capacity
Yellowknife Tours Bell 206 B Up to 4 guests
Spectacular NWT Great Slave Helicopters (model unspecified) Up to 3 passengers

The Bell 206 B, used by Yellowknife Tours, is known for its versatility and excellent safety record, making it ideal for sightseeing tours.

How Long Do Helicopter Tours in Yellowknife Last?

The duration of helicopter tours in Yellowknife can vary depending on the package chosen and the tour operator. Here’s an overview:

  • Short Tours: Typically last around 15 minutes, offering a quick but thrilling aerial view of Yellowknife.
  • Standard Tours: Usually range from 30 to 60 minutes, providing a comprehensive overview of the area.
  • Extended Tours: Can last up to 90 minutes, allowing for a more in-depth exploration of the region.

For example, Spectacular NWT offers a 15-minute flight time tour, which is perfect for those looking for a brief but memorable experience.

What Can You Expect to See on a Helicopter Tour in Yellowknife?

Helicopter tours in Yellowknife offer a diverse range of sights, depending on the season and specific tour route. Here’s what you might expect to see:

  1. Urban Landmarks:
  2. Downtown Yellowknife
  3. The Legislative Assembly building
  4. Old Town’s colorful houses

  5. Natural Wonders:

  6. Great Slave Lake (North America’s deepest lake)
  7. Surrounding boreal forests
  8. Unique geological formations

  9. Seasonal Highlights:

  10. Autumn: Vibrant fall colors across the landscape
  11. Winter: Snow-covered terrain and frozen lakes

Some tours may also provide opportunities to spot wildlife from the air, such as caribou or moose, depending on the season and flight path.

Are There Northern Lights Helicopter Tours in Yellowknife?

While specific Northern Lights helicopter tours are not mentioned in the available sources, Yellowknife is renowned for its Aurora Borealis viewing opportunities. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Best Viewing Season: Late August to late April
  • Peak Viewing Times: Typically between midnight and 3 AM
  • Tour Availability: While helicopter-specific Northern Lights tours are not explicitly mentioned, ground-based tours are common

It’s worth noting that aerial views of the Northern Lights could potentially offer a unique perspective, but weather conditions and light pollution considerations would need to be carefully managed for such tours.

What Are the Pricing Structures for Helicopter Tours in Yellowknife?

Pricing for helicopter tours in Yellowknife varies depending on the tour operator, duration, and number of passengers. Here’s a general overview:

  1. Yellowknife Tours:
  2. CAD 900 per machine (accommodates up to 4 guests)
  3. This makes it approximately CAD 225 per person if the helicopter is at full capacity

  4. Spectacular NWT:

  5. CAD 235 + 5% GST per tour (based on 3 people)
  6. This equates to about CAD 82 per person

It’s important to note that prices may change seasonally or based on specific tour packages. Always check with the tour operator for the most up-to-date pricing information.

What Additional Amenities Are Included in Helicopter Tours?

Helicopter tour operators in Yellowknife often include additional amenities to enhance the experience. These may include:

  1. Ground Transportation: Some operators provide pickup and drop-off services from your accommodation.
  2. City Tour: A condensed ground-based city tour may be included before or after the flight.
  3. Photo Opportunities: Stops at scenic locations for photography.
  4. Souvenirs: Complimentary mementos of your tour experience.
  5. Warm Clothing: In colder seasons, operators may provide appropriate outerwear.

For example, Spectacular NWT includes ground transportation, a condensed city tour with photo opportunities, and a complimentary souvenir as part of their helicopter tour package.

What Are the Seasonal Considerations for Helicopter Tours in Yellowknife?

Yellowknife’s extreme climate means that seasonal considerations play a significant role in helicopter tour operations:

Autumn (September to November):

  • Spectacular fall colors
  • Milder temperatures
  • Potential for early Northern Lights viewing

Winter (December to March):

  • Snow-covered landscapes
  • Frozen lakes and rivers
  • Peak Northern Lights viewing season
  • Extreme cold temperatures (proper clothing essential)

Spring and Summer:

  • While not mentioned specifically for helicopter tours, these seasons offer:
  • 24-hour daylight in summer
  • Lush green landscapes
  • Potential wildlife sightings

It’s important to note that Yellowknife Tours specifically mentions offering helicopter sightseeing in Autumn and Winter seasons.

Are Helicopter Tours in Yellowknife Accessible to Everyone?

While helicopter tours offer a unique way to experience Yellowknife, there are some limitations to consider:

  • Physical Requirements: Passengers must be able to climb into and out of the helicopter.
  • Weight Restrictions: There may be individual and combined weight limits for safety reasons.
  • Age Restrictions: Some operators may have minimum age requirements for passengers.
  • Accessibility: Unfortunately, helicopter tours are generally not wheelchair accessible.

It’s always best to check with the specific tour operator for their accessibility policies and any accommodations they might be able to provide.

How Can You Book a Helicopter Tour in Yellowknife?

Booking a helicopter tour in Yellowknife is a straightforward process:

  1. Research Tour Operators: Look into companies like Yellowknife Tours and Spectacular NWT.
  2. Choose Your Package: Select a tour based on duration, price, and included amenities.
  3. Check Availability: Tours may be seasonal, so confirm dates in advance.
  4. Make a Reservation: Book directly through the operator’s website or contact them by phone.
  5. Prepare for Your Tour: Follow any pre-flight instructions provided by the operator.

Remember to book well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.

Helicopter tours in Yellowknife offer an unforgettable way to experience the beauty of Canada’s Northwest Territories. From breathtaking aerial views of Great Slave Lake to the possibility of spotting the Northern Lights, these tours provide a unique perspective on one of Canada’s most stunning regions. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a new way to explore Yellowknife, a helicopter tour is sure to leave you with lasting memories of this Arctic wonderland.

References:

  1. Yellowknife Tours
  2. Spectacular NWT
  3. Air Tindi

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