Alpine Helicopters Inc

About Alpine Helicopters Inc

You get airborne views of the Continental Divide and the rockface that most visitors only photograph from below. Alpine Helicopters flies fixed-route tours over Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the peaks surrounding Banff. This is the fastest way to understand the park's scale and geography, especially useful if you're here for only a few days or want to see terrain inaccessible by car.

Book a 20-minute scenic flight over the Bow Valley or push to 45 minutes to circle the highest peaks. Tours depart from Canmore, just outside the park, so you're looking at a 30-minute drive before you even board. The helicopter holds five passengers, so you'll share the experience rather than getting a private flight. Clear mornings are non-negotiable for decent visibility. Overcast days happen frequently, and summer afternoon thermals can create turbulence.

Go in June or September when the weather stabilizes but crowds thin compared to July-August. This costs significantly more than any other park activity, so decide upfront if it fits your budget and priorities. It's worth doing if you're fascinated by geology or planning to stay only briefly. Skip it if you get motion sickness easily or if you prefer experiencing the mountains on foot.