Mountain View Helicopter Tours in Drumheller offers an exhilarating aerial experience over the stunning Canadian Badlands. With two distinct tour packages, visitors can witness breathtaking views of Horseshoe Canyon, the Red Deer River Valley, and iconic landmarks like the Royal Tyrrell Museum. These tours provide a unique perspective of Drumheller’s rugged landscape, combining the thrill of helicopter flight with panoramic vistas of the region’s geological wonders.
What Are the Tour Options for Mountain View Helicopter Tours Drumheller?
Mountain View Helicopters provides two main tour packages for visitors to Drumheller:
- Canyon Tour
- Duration: Approximately 6 minutes
- Altitude: 600 feet above ground
- Highlights: Horseshoe Canyon
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Cost: $40 per person plus GST (minimum 2 passengers)
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Horseshoe Tour
- Duration: 10-12 minutes
- Highlights: Red Deer River Valley, Royal Tyrrell Museum, Drumheller, Horsethief Canyon, Kneehill Creek
- Cost: $80 per person plus GST
Both tours offer unique perspectives of the Drumheller area, with the Horseshoe Tour providing a more extensive overview of the region’s geological features and landmarks.
When Is the Best Time to Take a Mountain View Helicopter Tour in Drumheller?
The optimal time for Mountain View Helicopter Tours in Drumheller is during the peak season, which runs from mid-June to the September long weekend. This timeframe coincides with the region’s most favorable weather conditions, offering clear skies and comfortable temperatures for aerial sightseeing.
Factors to consider when planning your tour:
- Weather conditions (tours are weather-permitting)
- Time of day (for optimal lighting and visibility)
- Seasonal variations in landscape appearance
It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability for your preferred date and time.
What Should Passengers Expect During a Mountain View Helicopter Tour in Drumheller?
Passengers embarking on a Mountain View Helicopter Tour in Drumheller can expect:
- Safety Briefing: A comprehensive safety orientation before the flight
- Seating Arrangement: Forward-facing window seats for all passengers
- Enhanced Visibility: Bubble windows for panoramic views
- Photo Opportunities: Pilots are happy to take photos after the flight
- Comfort: Heated aircraft, but warm clothing is recommended, especially in cooler months
- Weight Considerations: Possible weighing of passengers for balance calculations
Important Rules and Regulations:
- Passenger weights must be provided for safety calculations
- All flights are subject to 5% GST
- Tours may be rescheduled due to unfavorable weather conditions
How Accessible Are Mountain View Helicopter Tours in Drumheller?
Accessibility is an important consideration for Mountain View Helicopter Tours in Drumheller:
- Launch Site Location:
- Horseshoe Canyon viewpoint
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10 minutes west of Drumheller on Highway 9
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Transportation:
- Self-drive to the launch site
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No specific shuttle services mentioned
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Parking:
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Available at Horseshoe Canyon viewpoint (specifics not provided)
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Accessibility for Individuals with Disabilities:
- No specific information provided
- Passengers with mobility issues should contact Mountain View Helicopters in advance
It’s recommended to reach out to Mountain View Helicopters directly for detailed information on accessibility options and any necessary accommodations.
What Type of Helicopter Is Used for Mountain View Tours in Drumheller?
Mountain View Helicopters utilizes a specific aircraft for their Drumheller tours:
- Model: 1999 Robinson R44 helicopter
- Capacity: Up to 3 passengers (subject to weight restrictions)
- Features:
- Bubble windows for enhanced visibility
- Forward seating arrangement
- Heated interior
Key Characteristics:
- Safety: Modern aircraft with up-to-date safety features
- Comfort: Designed for sightseeing with optimal viewing angles
- Performance: Capable of navigating the diverse terrain of the Badlands
How Does Weather Affect Mountain View Helicopter Tours in Drumheller?
Weather plays a crucial role in the operation of Mountain View Helicopter Tours in Drumheller:
- Safety Priority: Passenger safety and comfort are paramount
- Weather Checks: Pilots continuously monitor weather conditions
- Rescheduling Policy: Tours may be rescheduled if conditions are unfavorable
- Communication: Passengers are advised as soon as possible about any changes
Weather Condition | Potential Impact |
---|---|
High Winds | Tour postponement |
Low Visibility | Rescheduling |
Thunderstorms | Cancellation |
Clear Skies | Optimal touring |
Passengers should be prepared for potential schedule changes and maintain flexibility in their plans when booking a helicopter tour.
What Makes Mountain View Helicopter Tours in Drumheller Unique?
Mountain View Helicopter Tours in Drumheller offers a distinctive experience that sets it apart:
- Geological Wonders: Unparalleled views of the Canadian Badlands
- Historical Perspective: Aerial views of dinosaur excavation sites
- Photographic Opportunities: Capture stunning landscapes from above
- Educational Experience: Learn about the region’s geological history
- Exclusive Access: See remote areas inaccessible by ground transportation
These tours provide a comprehensive overview of Drumheller’s unique landscape, combining natural beauty with historical significance in a thrilling aerial adventure.
Mountain View Helicopter Tours in Drumheller offers an unforgettable experience, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of the Canadian Badlands from a bird’s-eye perspective. Whether you choose the brief Canyon Tour or the more extensive Horseshoe Tour, you’re guaranteed spectacular views and lasting memories of this unique geological wonderland.
References:
1. DrumhellerMail – Chopper tours make for breathtaking vistas
2. Mountain View Helicopters – Helicopter Tours
3. Mountain View Helicopters – Helicopter Flight Training and Tours