A-List bucket list edition: Zion Helicopters

OPINION — There are few things I love more than being able to place a check mark next to something I’ve always dreamed about doing.

Especially when the dream involves flying in a helicopter over some of the most spectacular scenery on earth.

Earlier this year, I created a list of once-in-a-lifetime adventures that I wanted to experience in 2015 (Read here: A-List: 2015 Southern Utah bucket list).  I knew if I wrote these items down and created a sense of urgency, I’d be more likely to accomplish them. And I’m on my way.


 Fly with me!

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Flying in a helicopter over Zion was high – no pun intended – on my list, so I was ecstatic when it was the first thrill I was able to cross off. Well, except for, now I just want to do it again tomorrow. And the next day … (YOLO).

My experience

Map of 90 mile Zion tour with Zion Helicopters | Photo courtesy of Zion Helicopters website, St. George News
Map of 90 mile Zion tour with Zion Helicopters | Photo courtesy of Zion Helicopters website, St. George News

For the flight, I did a 90-mile Zion tour with Zion Helicopters. This tour is typically between 50-55 minutes and includes remarkable views of Zion National Park and its surrounding areas that are seldom seen except from the sky.

Since this was my first time on a helicopter, I didn’t know what to expect. Would I get sick? Would I be scared? Was this even a good idea?

Shortly after takeoff, I got my answers. No, I didn’t get sick. Yes, I was scared. And HELI YES, this was the best idea I’ve ever had.

Why? Because, one minute you’re on the ground with your eyes half closed, and the next you’re rising above the most beautiful sights you’ve ever seen.

Aerial view captured from 90 mile Zion tour with Zion Helicopters, March 5th, 2015 | Photo by Ali Hill, St. George News
Aerial view captured from 90 mile Zion tour with Zion Helicopters, March 5th, 2015 | Photo by Ali Hill, St. George News

Because, there’s something that makes you fall in love with life all over again when you have the chance to hover over secret waterfalls and fly lower than the planes.

Because, there’s a certain rush that comes with hearing, “turn around – let’s get closer!” And then actually turning around and getting closer.

And mainly because, when you get to see Southern Utah in its entirety, you won’t ever look at earth the same way again.

At least I know I won’t.

I hope you, too, say “heli” yes to this adventure.

Enjoy the ride.

My 2015 bucket list:

1. Watch the sunset in the Grand Canyon

2. Ride a helicopter over Zion 

3. Attend a star party at Cedar Breaks National Monument

4. Experience the Full Moon Hike in Bryce Canyon

5. Kayak in Lake Powell

6. Explore Calf Creek Falls in Escalante

7. Get scuba certified

8. Go white water rafting in Canyonlands

9. Visit the Four Corners Monument

10. Skydive in Moab

I want to hear about your adventures! Let me know what’s on your list (and what I need to add to mine) in the comments below.

Resources

  • Zion Helicopters | Website
  • Address: 25 N 2770 W, Hurricane, UT 84737
  • Telephone: (435) 668-4185
  • Hours of Operation: Monday – Sunday Lobby hours are 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m, with flights from 8 a.m. to sunset

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Ali Hill is an opinion columnist. The opinions stated in this article are her own, are not influenced through any advertising agreements with St. George News, and are not representative of St. George News.

Do you know of a business or adventure that deserves to be on the “A-List?”

Tell Ali about your local favorites by e-mailing your suggestions to [email protected]

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Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2015, all rights reserved.

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1 Comment

  • CharlotteWebb March 21, 2015 at 10:58 pm

    Ride the mules down the GC before they remove them altogether. Such a thrill!!

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