5 Top Montana Helicopter Tours for Spectacular Aerial Views

Are you interested in discovering the breathtaking beauty of Montana from a whole new perspective? Perhaps you could start your adventure by exploring it from up high on a helicopter tour that promises unrivaled views.

Montana is renowned for its varied landscapes, from Yellowstone National Park’s geysers to the jagged peaks of the Rattlesnake Wilderness. These handpicked helicopter tours will allow you to witness and photograph the state’s natural wonders like never before.

You’ll discover a range of tour options and the expertise that these companies bring to your unique experience. We’ll compare key features, such as the landscapes visited, tour durations, and different aspects of customer service.

Our firsthand experiences will guide you in making the best decision for your aerial exploration of Big Sky Country. So buckle up, get ready for takeoff, and let’s unveil the 5 best helicopter tours you can find in Montana.

7 Key Takeaways on Montana Helicopter Tours

  1. Montana offers a range of helicopter tours, from thrilling flights over Yellowstone National Park to romantic getaways over the Bitterroot Valley, with customizable options to suit every budget and time frame.
  2. Helicopter operators in Montana boast experienced pilots with extensive local knowledge and emphasize safety without compromising on the immersive experience.
  3. Companies like Rocky Mountain Rotors and Central Copters provide premium helicopter experiences, offering comfortable and well-maintained fleets, as well as additional services like private charters, aerial surveys, and even aerial firefighting.
  4. Triple Creek Ranch in Montana offers elevated romantic tours over scenic landscapes, limited to small groups, with detailed views of key landmarks and a focus on wildlife encounters.
  5. Homestead Helicopters, based in Missoula, offers tours not just in Montana, but also across the continental United States, bringing passengers up close to nature’s best sights.
  6. Many tour companies offer customizable flights to cater to individual interests, especially for photographers or passengers who want to see specific areas and have a wonderful time.
  7. Due to high demand, particularly during peak seasons, time planning and booking of helicopter tours is recommended to secure your slot and plan for a memorable Montana sky-high experience.

Top Montana Helicopter Tour Operators

A pilot's view from the cockpit during one of Montana's premier helicopter tours, displaying rugged mountainous terrain below.

Montana’s expansive wilderness stretches as far as the eye can see, and what better way to take in its grandeur than from the sky? Helicopter tours in Montana aren’t only about high-quality views; they’re immersive, expertly guided experiences that cater to the adrenaline junkie and the nature aficionado alike.

Here’s a list of local helicopter tour companies that’ll help you paint the sky with unforgettable memories. Whether you’re looking for brief aerial explorations or full days of flight, these operators offer something for every taste and budget.

1. Yellowstone Helicopters

A helicopter from Yellowstone Helicopters flies over a mountain range during one of their Montana helicopter tours.
source: facebook.com

Company NameDescription
Yellowstone HelicoptersOffering personalized Montana adventures, Yellowstone Helicopters goes beyond flying, crafting tailored experiences for travelers to explore the local landscape from the skies.

Here’s what you can expect flying with Yellowstone Helicopters:

  • Expert Local Pilots – The pilots aren’t just skilled; they know the region like the back of their hands. Their navigational prowess and intriguing local trivia will have you on the edge of your seat.
  • Soaring at Top Elevations – The value flights reach thrilling heights, up to 11,000 feet over the Madison Range. Rivers, High Mountain Lakes, Earthquake Lakes, and Cliff Lakes unfold beneath you, creating a stunning tapestry framed by the helicopter’s windows.
  • Yellowstone National Park Views – How can we talk about Yellowstone Helicopters and not mention their tours over Yellowstone National Park? It’s like seeing the world’s most famous geyser, Old Faithful, from a brand-new angle.

Check out the pricing chart to tailor your high-flying experience with Yellowstone Helicopters to your budget:

Tour DurationRates (Per Person)
10-Minute Tours$99
30-Minute Tours$295
45-Minute Tours$399
60-Minute Tours$499

If you’re looking to elevate your Yellowstone experience and create moments that’ll last a lifetime, Yellowstone Helicopters is the way to go. The only thing better than seeing Montana’s grandeur is seeing it from up high.

2. Rocky Mountain Rotors

A Rocky Mountain Rotors helicopter in mid-flight against open fields and a clear sky during one of their Montana helicopter tours.
source: facebook.com

Company NameOfferings
Rocky Mountain RotorsA specialized team focused on aerial activities, serving as Montana’s top choice for helicopter services. Offers scenic tours of the Gallatin Valley and professional aerial photography flights over the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem.

So, what sets Rocky Mountain Rotors apart? Well, experience is a key factor. These guys know Montana’s landscape like it’s the back of their hand. No other may provide you with the same assurance or safety record.

Whether it’s leisurely exploring the beauty of Belgrade, Bozeman, Butte, or Billings, your sky-high journey is in hands that have clocked in more air-time than anyone else in the state.

If it’s comfort you’re after, they’ve got you covered. Their fleet of helicopters is clean, cozy, and designed to let you soak in every bit of Montana’s splendor. Safety is another big tick. Pilots are not just friendly but highly knowledgeable about the areas you’ll be flying over.

As if that’s not enough, they also offer helicopter repairs, maintenance, and inspections. It’s all about a comprehensive service, whether you’re a tourist on a solo adventure, a family looking to make memories, or a professional seeking the perfect shot.

But the best part? The pilots and staff at Rocky Mountain Rotors are passionate about what they do, and it shines through every flight. They’re not just giving you a tour; they’re giving you an unforgettable experience above Big Sky Country.

3. Triple Creek Ranch

A helicopter in mid-flight against a clear blue sky during one of Triple Creek Ranch's Montana helicopter tours.

Company NameDescription
Triple Creek RanchAn award-winning luxury ranch resort nestled in Montana’s stunning Bitterroot Valley. Offers an unforgettable experience, catering not only to horseback riding enthusiasts but also to adventurous souls seeking high-flying thrills.

As you go on this thrilling adventure, prepare to be spellbound by the unparalleled beauty of these places while on a helicopter tour with Triple Creek Ranch:

  • East Fork and Bitterroot Rivers – You’re like an eagle soaring over these two natural ribbons.
  • Trapper Peak – One of the most challenging peaks in the Bitterroot Range, you glimpse it like a secret map revealed.
  • El Capitan Summit – From above, it’s a spectacle that nature herself has painted.
  • Majestic Alpine Lakes – You’ll need to pinch yourself; they almost look too perfect.
  • Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness – A sacred symphony of untouched nature that you get to compose by just witnessing it.
  • CB Ranch – Keep your eyes peeled, as wildlife sightings are almost guaranteed, adding an extra layer of excitement to your adventure.

Whether you opt for the 30, 60, or 90-minute option, the rates for these unforgettable helicopter tours range from $2,900 to $5,300. To ensure the safety of both guests and pilots, each flight is limited to just 6 passengers, with a combined weight limit of 1,100 lbs.

Triple Creek Ranch promises a journey that will take your breath away, giving you memories that will last a lifetime. So, prepare to take on a truly exceptional experience and see the beauty of Montana’s Bitterroot Valley from the skies above.

4. Central Copters

A helicopter sits on an airport tarmac at Central Copters, with mountains silhouetted in the backdrop, ready for Montana helicopter tours.
source: facebook.com

Company NameDescription
Central CoptersEstablished in 1963, Central Copters is a Montana-based company renowned for its Aircraft Charter and Heavy-lift External Load services. Fulfilling helicopter adventure dreams from the heart of Belgrade.

Standing out as a premium choice for panoramic tours, Central Copters places customizable helicopter adventures at your fingertips. Whether it’s the winding rivers, peaceful lakes, or Montana’s wildlife in their natural habitat, you’ll get a bird’s eye view from one of their choppers that’s second to none.

The pilots here aren’t just navigating machines; they’re storytellers, sharing insights that’ll make your experience unforgettable. It’s like flying over the geographic wonders of Montana while your pilot regales you with the historical and geographical significance of what you’re seeing. 

But the aerial beauty isn’t all that Central Copters has in their bag of flying tricks. In addition to tours, they offer a range of services that ensure they cater to every need and passion including:

  • Private Helicopter Charter for swift and personalized travel
  • Construction support for when heavy lifting is required
  • Aerial Survey for the more analytical flyers
  • Sportsman Recreation for effortless access to Montana’s outdoors
  • Aerial Firefighting, because helicopters aren’t just for fun – they’re heroes too

Catering to everyone from nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and business travelers, to those tasked with protecting Montana’s wildlands, Central Copters is a one-stop aerial service.

The next time you’re in Belgrade and you want to experience Montana from the skies, look them up; their 60-plus years of expertise speak for themselves.

5. Homestead Helicopters

A helicopter from Homestead Helicopters is parked on a grassy field, ready for Montana helicopter tours.
source: facebook.com

Company NameDescription
Homestead HelicoptersIn operation since 1996, Missoula-based Homestead Helicopters is a prominent player in the helicopter tour industry. Their tours extend beyond Montana, spanning scenic areas across the continental United States.

Here’s a taste of the heavenly experiences that Homestead Helicopters offer:

  • 1/2 Hour Scenic Tour – Paying tribute to Montana’s natural beauty, this quick jaunt from Missoula Airport showcases stunning landscapes. You’ll skim past Snow Bowl and the jagged peaks of Rattlesnake Wilderness, offering a bird’s eye view of lakes, peaks, snowfields, wildlife, and ample wilderness.
  • 1-Hour Mission Mountains Tour – This extended journey not only explores Snow Bowl and the Rattlesnake Wilderness but also gives you a glimpse of the Glacial Tarns, snowfields, waterfalls, and rich wildlife of the Missions. The tour even zips through the grizzly bear conservation zone and the National Bison Range.
  • Glacier National Park Tours and Yellowstone National Park Tours – With Lake McDonald and Flathead Lake on the itinerary, as well as the renowned vistas of Yellowstone Lake, these tours immerse you in the purest wilderness of the Rockies for 4.5 hours or more.
  • Custom Tours – Homestead Helicopters caters to your whims, picking you up and dropping you off at your desired locations, including exclusive ranches and resorts.

For pricing information on their other tours, it is advisable to contact Homestead Helicopters directly. However, the rates for the 1/2 Hour and 1 Hour Tours are:

TourDuration6 Passengers5 Passengers4 Passengers3 Passengers2 Passengers1 Passenger
Rattlesnake Wilderness1/2 Hour$216.67$260.00$325.00$433.33$650.00$1,300.00
Mission Mountains1 Hour$433.33$520.00$650.00$866.67$1,300.00$2,600.00

Choose Homestead Helicopters for an unforgettable aerial experience and explore the beauty of Montana and its national parks.

Montana Helicopter Tours Final Thoughts

The pilot's view from the cockpit showcases a sprawling lush landscape below during one of Montana's premier helicopter tours.

Montana’s expansive wilderness isn’t just land to be explored; it’s a canvas waiting to be painted with unforgettable memories. From Yellowstone National Park’s geothermal wonders to the romantic panoramas of the Bitterroot Valley, every flight is a unique masterpiece crafted by expert guides.

With a strong emphasis on both expertise and safety, Montana’s helicopter tours promise not only breathtaking views but also peace of mind. Companies like Rocky Mountain Rotors and Homestead Helicopters, offer premium experiences tailored to varied interests and budgets.

So why settle for a mundane tour on land when you can soar among the clouds, embracing Montana’s natural splendor from a whole new perspective?

Each helicopter tour is an invitation to see the state you think you know from an entirely fresh angle, promising to etch memories into your heart that’ll last a lifetime. So, as you plan your next visit to the Treasure State, dare to look beyond the horizon and unlock the skies of Montana.

Montana Helicopter Tours FAQs

1. How Much Is a Helicopter Ride in Montana?

The cost of a helicopter ride in Montana can vary depending on the duration, route, and the helicopter company. On average, prices range from $100 to $500 per person for shorter scenic flights, while more extensive tours or custom experiences can go beyond $1,000 per person.

2. How Much Is the Yellowstone Helicopter?

Yellowstone Helicopters offers a range of tours with prices varying based on the duration and experience. Tours can start as low as $99 for shorter excursions, with more extensive and premium options available at higher rates, up to $499 for a comprehensive Yellowstone helicopter tour.

3. Does Yellowstone Have Helicopter Tours?

There are helicopter tour operators in the surrounding areas of Yellowstone National Park, like West Yellowstone, that offer scenic flights over the park’s stunning landscapes.

4. Are Helicopter Tours Worth the Money?

The worth of a helicopter tour depends on personal preferences and budget. For those seeking a unique and breathtaking perspective of landscapes, landmarks, or natural wonders, a helicopter tour can be a memorable and thrilling experience.

5. What Time of Day Is Best for a Helicopter Tour?

The best time for a helicopter tour often depends on the type of scenery you want to experience. Morning flights provide crisp lighting for landscapes and potential wildlife sightings, while sunset tours offer a warm, golden glow and stunning colors.

Keep the adventure alive by exploring related articles about Montana below:

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Written by:

Elizabeth Hawley
Hey, fellow travelers! I'm Elizabeth Hawley, stepping into the world in the hues of fall. For me, Montana is more than just a state; it's a muse. The golden aspen trees and russet landscapes in the fall have always fueled my creativity. Co-founding PocketMontana.com was a no-brainer, blending my love for art, photography, and Montana's ever-changing palette.

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