Exploring Calgary from the sky is an unforgettable experience. Helicopter tours offer a unique perspective on the city’s stunning landscapes, urban landmarks, and nearby natural wonders. For both locals and visitors, a helicopter ride provides a bird’s-eye view that can’t be matched by any other sightseeing method. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking to enjoy Calgary’s beauty, these tours reveal some of the city’s most scenic spots.
Why Choose a Helicopter Tour in Calgary
Calgary is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, including the Rocky Mountains, Bow River, and lush parklands. While ground tours provide great access to local attractions, only a helicopter tour can give a comprehensive aerial view of the city and its surroundings. Helicopter tours allow you to:
- Witness panoramic views of the city skyline
- Capture stunning photographs from above
- Access remote areas and natural landmarks
- Enjoy a unique and adventurous sightseeing experience
Downtown Calgary and the Iconic Skyline
One of the highlights of any Calgary helicopter tour is the downtown skyline. From above, the city’s modern skyscrapers, bustling streets, and iconic structures like the Calgary Tower can be admired in full perspective.
Calgary Tower
Rising prominently in the heart of downtown, the Calgary Tower is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. From the air, you can see how it stands out among other buildings, offering a dramatic contrast against the surrounding cityscape. Helicopter tours often circle the tower, giving passengers an unobstructed view and a perfect photo opportunity.
Prince’s Island Park
This green oasis in downtown Calgary appears especially vibrant from above. Helicopter tours provide a unique view of the park’s winding pathways, water features, and seasonal colors, making it a favorite for nature lovers and photographers.
The Bow River and Scenic Waterways
The Bow River winds through Calgary, providing stunning natural scenery. From a helicopter, the river’s curves, bridges, and surrounding landscapes are highlighted in a way that is impossible to appreciate fully from the ground.
Peace Bridge
Designed by Santiago Calatrava, the Peace Bridge is an architectural marvel. A helicopter tour provides a chance to see the bridge’s distinctive red structure and its reflection on the river, offering a striking aerial perspective.
River Valley Trails
The extensive network of river valley trails appears as a lush green ribbon from the sky. Helicopter rides showcase how these trails interconnect parks, neighborhoods, and natural spaces, emphasizing Calgary’s commitment to urban greenery.
Exploring the Rocky Mountains
No Calgary helicopter tour is complete without a glimpse of the nearby Rocky Mountains. Located just west of the city, the mountains provide a dramatic backdrop to the urban landscape.
Banff National Park
For tours that extend beyond the city, Banff National Park is a top destination. Helicopters provide sweeping views of snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, and dense forests. Seeing iconic spots like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake from above is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that highlights the grandeur of Canada’s natural beauty.
Canmore and Kananaskis Country
Smaller yet equally breathtaking, Canmore and Kananaskis Country offer rugged mountain scenery, rivers, and valleys. Aerial tours capture the scale and majesty of these areas, perfect for thrill-seekers and nature photographers alike.
Calgary Stampede Grounds
If your helicopter tour coincides with the Calgary Stampede, seeing the grounds from above is an extraordinary experience. The vast open space, grandstands, and rodeo arenas come alive during the festival. Even outside of event times, the expansive area provides an impressive view of one of Calgary’s most famous cultural landmarks.
Heritage and Suburban Landscapes
Beyond the urban core and natural attractions, helicopter tours also provide a unique perspective on Calgary’s neighborhoods and historical sites. Flying over suburban areas reveals city planning, green spaces, and architectural diversity.
Heritage Park Historical Village
Canada’s largest living history museum, Heritage Park, is a fascinating sight from the air. You can see historic buildings, steam engines, and the layout of the park, offering insight into Calgary’s past and its development over the years.
Calgary Zoo and Stampede Park
From above, visitors can observe the expansive Calgary Zoo and surrounding recreational areas. These aerial views provide a unique way to understand the scale and layout of these popular attractions.
Seasonal Highlights from the Sky
Calgary offers distinct seasonal changes that enhance the helicopter tour experience.
Spring and Summer
Lush green parks, river trails, and flower blooms make spring and summer tours particularly scenic. Longer daylight hours also allow for extended flights and more photo opportunities.
Fall
Autumn transforms Calgary into a patchwork of red, orange, and yellow foliage. A helicopter ride during this season is ideal for capturing stunning aerial photographs of both urban and natural landscapes.
Winter
Snow-capped mountains, frozen lakes, and the city blanketed in snow create a magical winter scene. Helicopter tours in winter highlight the contrast between urban life and serene natural surroundings.
Tips for a Memorable Helicopter Tour
To make the most of your Calgary helicopter experience, consider these tips:
- Book in advance: Popular tours can fill quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Dress appropriately: Even short flights can be chilly at higher altitudes, so layer clothing accordingly.
- Bring a camera: Aerial photography is one of the main draws of helicopter tours.
- Listen to the pilot: Safety instructions and insights from the pilot enhance both safety and enjoyment.
- Choose the right time of day: Sunrise and sunset tours offer spectacular lighting for photography.
Conclusion
Calgary helicopter tours offer an unparalleled way to experience the city and its surrounding natural beauty. From the iconic skyline and river landscapes to the majestic Rocky Mountains, there’s no shortage of scenic spots to enjoy. Whether you are a visitor looking for a unique perspective or a local wanting to see the city in a new light, a helicopter tour is a thrilling, memorable adventure. With careful planning and attention to seasonal highlights, your aerial journey over Calgary will provide breathtaking views and unforgettable memories.