Grand canyon west rim helicopter/pontoon & Zipline

Is it worth it? Website says it lasts about 1 hr and cost $400pp. If possible,wWould love to hear from someone whose done it.

Also the zipline. How is it? We are coming from Vegas and will have done slotzilla a day or two beforehand.

Thank you

The Grand Canyon West Rim helicopter and pontoon boat tour is often considered a premium experience, offering a unique perspective of the canyon that you cannot get from the rim alone. The tour typically includes a helicopter flight into the canyon, landing near the Colorado River, followed by a pontoon boat ride along the river. The full experience usually lasts around an hour, as advertised, though you should factor in time for check-in, safety briefings, and transportation from the visitor center.

At $400 per person, it is expensive, but many visitors feel it is worth it for the combination of aerial views and up-close river experience. People who have done the tour often comment that seeing the canyon from both above and on the river in a single excursion is very memorable and worth the splurge if it fits your budget.

Some key points to consider:

  • The helicopter provides stunning aerial views of the canyon’s cliffs, rock formations, and the Colorado River. It’s a short but spectacular flight.
  • The pontoon ride is calm and gives a unique perspective of the canyon walls and the river itself. It is especially appreciated by those who enjoy photography or want a more serene experience in contrast to the helicopter.
  • The tour is relatively short, so some people feel the cost is high for the duration. However, the combination of two perspectives in one package is rare.

Regarding the zipline at Grand Canyon West, it is another popular activity. The West Rim zipline consists of multiple lines that take you over rugged terrain, providing views of the canyon and the surrounding desert. While it is not as extreme as some adventure ziplines elsewhere, it is still exhilarating and scenic.

  • The zipline is well-run and safe, with professional guides and equipment provided.
  • The experience is faster-paced than the pontoon or helicopter tours and can be a fun complement if you enjoy adrenaline activities.
  • Having done SlotZilla in Las Vegas, you may find the zipline here less intense in terms of height and speed, but the scenery is unmatched, as you are zipping over the canyon landscape rather than the city.
  • It’s a good option if you want a brief adrenaline activity that doesn’t take up the whole day.

In summary, both the helicopter/pontoon tour and the zipline offer unique experiences of the Grand Canyon West Rim. If your budget allows and you want a combination of breathtaking views and a memorable adventure, the helicopter/pontoon tour is highly recommended. The zipline is also worthwhile, especially if you enjoy ziplining and want to experience the canyon in a different, active way.


More Grand Canyon National Park Travel Questions