Tourists flock from all corners of the globe each and every year to get their piece of what a Grand Canyon helicopter tour offers.
By flying the heights of the Arizona Desert in a purpose-built chopper for a handful of special guests, these operators know how to put on a good show for participants.
However, such is the scenic beauty on offer in this region of the United States of America that it only makes sense to soak in more sights close by.
Here we will run through a number of the most picturesque activities that can be enjoyed by couples, groups and singles before or after the tour.
Horseshoe Bend
One of the most underrated activities that guests of a Grand Canyon helicopter tour can take in is the famous Horseshoe Bend located 5 miles from the Grand Canyon National Park. This is a bend that has to be seen to be believed situated across the Colorado River, offering a perfect circumference that is a spectacular image for photographers young and old. The Horseshoe Bend can be seen from up high in the chopper, but there are various tours on foot that can help to compliment this trip and give patrons an up-close-and-personal viewing of this magnificent sight.
Desert View Drive
You have probably come across a few movies or television shows that have showcased Arizona Highway 64, a perfect way to soak in what this land has to offer after concluding your Grand Canyon helicopter tour. When passing Mary Colton’s Watchtower and the Tusayan Ruin when enjoying the sights from the eastern edge of the Canyon, visitors can literally take the wheel and map out their own adventure in this stunning and picturesque corner of the desert. The road will also offer stop off points across the Colorado River for a better view of that landmark as well, ensuring that there will be plenty of opportunities to take a snap with the smartphone or digital camera.
Havasu Falls
When they say ‘the best things in life are free’ they must have clearly been talking about Havasu Falls. This iconic location set a short journey away from where the Grand Canyon helicopter tour stops off is perfect for those photogenic opportunities that are too good to pass up. The Arizona Desert is not a location renowned for its waterfalls, but this is where the adventure makes a special exception. It can be found 10 miles away from the Hualapai Hilltop as the oasis is ideal for travellers who want a natural refresher and a cool down.
Bright Angel Trail
One of the slight downsides by taking a Grand Canyon helicopter tour without stopping on the ground is a lack of intimacy with the history and nature of the site. For those that sign up for the Bright Angel Trail, they have the opportunity to scour the 6-mile journey to the destination at Plateau Point before taking in some historic landmarks cherished by the indigenous Native American community. Regular stops and water containers are highly recommended, but this is a great way for travellers to get an intimate feel for the local conditions.
Summary
We have barely touched the surface on picturesque activities that are suited to travellers young and old on their own Grand Canyon helicopter tour. From the Skywalk to Colorado River rafting, the North Rim, the Black Suspension Bridge, Parashant National Monument, Railway and Grand Canyon Museum, there is something for everyone. No matter if it is a high-octane thrill ride, a scenic tour for the cameras or a place to relax and unwind, the helicopter tour is merely the tip of the iceberg.