SEDONA AIR ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Sedona from Above: A Helicopter Passage through the Secret Wilderness
A 28–2 hours, 45+ mile helicopter tour from Sedona that traces Munds Mountain, Gunsight Pass, Boynton Canyon and the Secret Wilderness—this guide distills what to expect, how to prepare, and where the views land.
Sedona from Above: A Helicopter Passage through the Secret Wilderness.
Adventure brief
Sedona from Above: A Helicopter Passage through the Secret Wilderness
Rising above Sedona’s red-rock spine, Secret Wilderness is a condensed, airborne circuit through some of the region’s most dramatic terrain. In a tour that covers more than 45 miles you cross Munds Mountain Wilderness Area, fly over Gunsight Pass and Boynton Canyon, and thread the Secret Wilderness Area for close views of canyon walls, mesas and the chance of wildlife glimpses—delivered in a helicopter configured for sightseeing and comfort.
Sedona, Arizona, is renowned for its stunning red rock formations and sweeping desert vistas, but few experiences capture its rugged beauty quite like a helicopter tour with Secret Wilderness. Taking off from 1225 Airport Road, this 28 to 30-minute aerial journey covers over 45 miles of some of Sedona's most dramatic landscapes, including the Munds Mountain Wilderness Area, Secret Wilderness Area, and the striking Gunsight Pass and Boynton Canyon. The tour offers travelers a unique vantage point to absorb these iconic natural features in a way that ground-based hikes simply can’t match.
What sets Secret Wilderness apart is its focus on combining intimate natural encounters with top-tier comfort. The helicopter itself is tailored specifically for sightseeing, boasting six forward-facing seats to ensure every passenger gets unobstructed views. Climate control and noise-reducing headsets enhance the experience, allowing you to focus fully on the spectacular scenery without any distractions. The pilot serves not just as your aviator but as a knowledgeable guide, pointing out details of the land and wildlife below.
The Munds Mountain Wilderness, with its rugged cliffs and dense vegetation, reveals a complex ecosystem that contrasts the open desert areas seen from afar. Boynton Canyon, famous for its red rock cliffs and spiritual significance to the Yavapai people, further deepens the cultural richness of the tour. Flying over Gunsight Pass offers a dramatic glimpse into a landscape carved by water and wind over millions of years, showcasing the geological forces still at work.
Wildlife sightings are common during the tour, with chances to spot desert bighorn sheep, ravens, and a variety of smaller desert creatures amidst the towering rock faces and canyons. The tour’s design also makes it the perfect activity for visitors looking to get a comprehensive overview of Sedona’s diverse terrain in under an hour.
Booking options include general seating, front row, comfort, and comfort plus seats to accommodate different needs and budgets. Larger parties may even qualify for complimentary upgrades, making it an excellent choice for groups seeking a tailored experience.
To make the most of your visit, arrive 30 minutes before your flight for check-in, avoid bringing bags with straps due to space restrictions, and dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures. This tour is not just a flight—it’s a window into some of Arizona’s most inspiring natural wonders, offering a perspective that stays with you long after you land.
Route Schematic
Route schematic and key viewpoints
Stops and flyovers on this circuit concentrate on the major natural features and scenic corridors noted by the operator.
Munds Mountain Wilderness Area
A primary section of the route offering broad views over rugged mesas and red-rock formations that anchor the northern arc of the tour.
Gunsight Pass
A named flyover point on the itinerary that provides dramatic cuts through the landscape and framing for canyon walls.
Boynton Canyon
One of the tour’s signature canyon crossings, Boynton Canyon is listed as a central highlight of the flight path.
Secret Wilderness Area
The eponymous stretch of the tour—an area emphasized in the route description for its secluded landscapes and viewing opportunities.
Flights require a minimum of two seats sold to operate; passengers must follow baggage restrictions (no bags with straps, backpacks or purses) and comply with operator seating and weight accommodations.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A 45+ mile sweep of Sedona’s iconic canyons
The flight covers over 45 miles in a roughly 28–30 minute circuit that takes in Munds Mountain Wilderness, Gunsight Pass and Boynton Canyon, concentrating big views into a brief, photographic window.
Close-to-nature sightings from above
Operators note the opportunity for wildlife sightings during the tour—seeing animals from the helicopter is one of the listed reasons travelers book this route.
Sightseeing-focused helicopters with forward-facing seats
Flights are conducted in helicopters specifically set up for sightseeing, offering all forward-facing seats and air conditioning to maximize visibility and comfort on the short, intense outing.
What the day feels like
What the flight feels like
The tour is a compact aerial narrative: board at the Sedona airfield, climb into an aircraft outfitted for sightseeing, then sweep over mesas and slot canyons for a 28–30 minute flight that covers more than 45 miles—an intense, panoramic sampling of the Munds Mountain and Boynton Canyon corridors.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this flight suits—and who should consider other options.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The tour lasts approximately 28–30 minutes and covers over 45 miles; confirm your precise flight length when booking.
Check in at 1225 Airport Rd., Sedona, AZ 86336. For check-in directions, go straight through the stop signs at the top of the airport road toward the red building at the far left corner.
Dress in layers; cameras, cell phones and water are welcome on board. Due to limited space, any-size carry-on bags or purses are not allowed, and bags with straps (backpacks, purses) cannot be brought on board.
Each flight requires a minimum of two seats sold to operate. Comfort seating is available for passengers over 229 lbs and Comfort Plus for those 270 lbs and up—notify the operator when booking if you need these accommodations.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What time should I check in for my flight?
Check-in time is 30 minutes prior to your flight.
Where do I go to check in?
To check in, go straight through the stop signs at the top of the airport road and head toward the red building at the far left corner.
Can I be late to my flight?
Late arrivals will not be able to join the flight; the operator runs a tight schedule and cannot delay take-off times for other guests.
Are there restrooms or a waiting area before the flight?
Yes—there are several comfortable couches and two bathrooms available for customers while waiting for their flight.
How should I dress and what can I bring on board?
Dress in layers since conditions vary; cameras, cell phones and water are allowed. Any-size carry-on bags or purses are not allowed aboard the helicopter.
Do you offer discounts?
Apex Air Tours offers a 10% discount to veterans, currently serving military and first responders, as well as repeat-customer and group discounts—call the operator to book and confirm eligibility.
What is the cancellation or rescheduling policy?
Tours rebooked are subject to a rescheduling fee per seat and may be rescheduled up to 24 hours prior. Passengers who fail to show or are more than 15 minutes late will be billed the full price. In unforeseen operational circumstances the operator will work to rebook at no charge; cancellations 24 hours prior may be issued as flight credit. All ticket/gift card sales are final.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-11-04T00:14:08.681Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.