Into the Hidden Past: A Private Helicopter into Boynton and Long Canyons

SEDONA AIR TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Into the Hidden Past: A Private Helicopter into Boynton and Long Canyons

An 18–20 minute, 30+ mile private helicopter flight from Sedona that drops into the heart of Boynton and Long Canyons to give close views of ancient ruins inaccessible by foot.

Into the Hidden Past: A Private Helicopter into Boynton and Long Canyons.

Duration
18-20 Minutes (30+ Miles)
Location
Sedona
Operator
Apex Air Tours
Category
Air Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Red rock walls and narrow canyon mouths recede beneath the rotors as a compact helicopter threads a 30‑mile arc into Boynton and Long Canyons. In under twenty minutes you move from the airport tarmac into an aerial vantage that reveals archaeological sites all but impossible to reach on foot — an intimate, airborne encounter with the region’s deep past.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE ROUTE

Thirty miles into canyon country

This private flight covers 30+ miles in an 18–20 minute itinerary, carrying you into the narrow guts of Boynton and Long Canyons for perspectives only accessible from the air.

THE ANCIENTS

Ruins you can’t walk to

The tour is designed to slow and focus over archaeological sites: these ruins are virtually inaccessible by foot, and the helicopter gives you a front‑row look at structures and placements that reveal human presence in this rugged terrain.

THE EXPERIENCE

An intimate, immersive flight

Rather than a fast sweep, the flight slows to maximize close views and give passengers time to envision the lives that shaped the stone and mesa edges below.

What the day feels like

What the flight feels like

You meet at the Sedona airport, step into a forward‑facing, air‑conditioned helicopter and climb above town into a compact flight that spends its time where it matters: low and deliberate passes into Boynton and Long Canyons so passengers can inspect ruins and canyon anatomy that are otherwise unreachable.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this private air tour suits — and who should take note of restrictions.

1
History BuffsWell suited for travelers seeking close views of archaeological sites that are otherwise impossible to reach on foot; the flight is tailored for focused observation of ruins.
2
PhotographersIdeal for aerial photography using cameras and cell phones (both are allowed aboard), but note tight cabin space and rules about baggage and straps.
3
Solo TravelersSolo passengers are accommodated but each flight requires a minimum of two seats sold; solo travelers unwilling to purchase an extra seat should call the operator to be booked onto a shared flight.
4
Travelers with baggage constraintsNot a good fit for anyone who needs to bring bags with straps, backpacks, or purses: these items are not permitted onboard due to limited cabin space.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Camera, cell phone and water are welcome on board; due to limited cabin space any-size carry-on bags or purses are not allowed.

How to Dress

Dress in layers: it is usually warmer in the helicopter than outside, and layers let you adjust for changing conditions.

Cabin Comfort

Helicopters are equipped with all forward‑facing seats and air conditioning; comfort seating is available for larger passengers as noted by the operator.

Booking Notice

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?

Go straight through the stop signs at the top of the airport road and head towards the red building at the far left corner to check in.

Can I be late to my flight?

Late arrivals will not be able to join the flight; the operator runs on a tight schedule and cannot delay take-off times.

Are there restrooms or a waiting area?

Yes — there are several comfortable couches and two bathrooms available for customers while waiting for their flight.

What should I bring on board?

Camera, cell phone and water are welcome. Any-size carry-on bags or purses are NOT allowed due to limited space.

Do you offer discounts?

Apex Air Helicopter Tours offers a 10% discount to veterans, currently serving military, and first responders; repeat-customer and group discounts are also available—call (928) 852-4848 to book.

What is the cancellation and rescheduling policy?

Tours rebooked are subject to a $20 rescheduling fee per seat if done 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 cancellations the operator will work to rebook at no charge. All ticket/gift card sales are final.

Is there any seating or passenger minimum?

Each flight requires a minimum of two seats sold to fly; the operator can assist solo passengers who do not wish to purchase an extra seat by booking them onto a flight with other passengers.