SEDONA PRIVATE FIELD GUIDE
Above the Rim: A Private Helicopter Traverse of the Mogollon Escarpment
A 50-minute private helicopter tour that covers more than 80 miles around Sedona and visits Sycamore Canyon, Secret Mountain, and Munds Mountain wilderness areas — this guide clarifies what you’ll see and how to prepare.
Above the Rim: A Private Helicopter Traverse of the Mogollon Escarpment.
Adventure brief
Above the Rim: A Private Helicopter Traverse of the Mogollon Escarpment
From a helicopter the Mogollon Rim reads like a layered map of time: mile after mile of red-rock fins, remote canyons and hidden mesas punctuated by the small, weathered footprints of ancient ruins. This private Mogollon Rim tour soars over Sedona’s signature formations and penetrates deep into three wilderness areas that are otherwise extremely difficult to reach, offering both broad panoramas and intimate glimpses into landscapes long lost to easy access.
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Arizona’s Mogollon Rim on a private helicopter tour with Apex Air Tours. This exclusive adventure covers 80 miles of rugged terrain, soaring above Sedona’s iconic red rock formations, lush canyons, and ancient ruins inaccessible by foot. Guided by expert pilots, guests witness dramatic cliffs, winding rivers, and hidden alcoves, capturing a unique perspective of this geological wonder. The flight offers an unmatched blend of thrill and tranquility, perfect for those seeking an unparalleled outdoor experience. Whether you’re captivated by natural history or stunning vistas, this private tour reveals Sedona’s secrets in a way no other excursion can. Ideal for photography enthusiasts, nature lovers, or anyone hungry for a memorable escape, this journey blends luxury with adventure in the heart of Arizona’s high country.
Route Schematic
Route & Key Overlooks
The flight route connects a series of high vistas and canyon interiors; expect broad aerial views interspersed with closer passes over key wilderness areas and ruins.
Sedona Rock Formations
Begin with aerial passages over Sedona’s famous red-rock formations and sweeping scenic overlooks.
Sycamore Canyon Wilderness
Traverse Sycamore Canyon to view deep, remote canyons and the rugged topography that defines this stretch of the Mogollon Rim.
Secret Mountain Wilderness
Pass over the Secret Mountain wilderness area and its surrounding ridgelines, accessing viewpoints and ruins that are difficult to reach by trail.
Munds Mountain Wilderness
Explore the Munds Mountain area, where the tour drops into canyon interiors to locate a greater concentration of ancient ruins than shorter flights provide.
Flights require at least two seats sold to operate; seating and routing can change for safety or weather. Review the operator’s bag and seating restrictions and call ahead if you have weight or seating concerns.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
80+ Miles Across Three Wilderness Areas
This private flight covers more than 80 miles around Sedona, routing through the Sycamore Canyon, Secret Mountain and Munds Mountain wilderness areas so you can see far more terrain than on shorter tours.
Ancient Ruins and Hidden Canyons
The tour descends into remote canyons to reveal ancient ruins and sites that are difficult to access by land; the longer route offers opportunities to see more ruins than shorter itineraries.
Local Expertise in the Cockpit
Flights are led by highly trained, professional pilots who know the topography and local features, guiding you to hidden gems and viewpoints that make this the most comprehensive Sedona helicopter experience offered by the operator.
What the day feels like
What the Flight Feels Like
Expect a compact, intense experience: roughly 50 minutes in the air traversing dramatic canyon rims and red-rock spires. You’ll move from wide, sweeping views of Sedona’s iconic formations to lower, more intimate passages over remote canyon walls and archaeological remains — a rapid alternation of scale that reveals both geology and human history from a vantage few visitors see.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this private helicopter tour suits — and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Flights depart from the Sedona airport terminal at 1225 Airport Rd. (check operator instructions on approach to the terminal grounds).
You may bring a camera, cell phone and water. Due to limited cabin space, carry-on bags and purses are not allowed onboard.
Dress in layers: it is often warmer inside the helicopter than outside, so layered clothing lets you adjust comfortably for changing conditions.
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 takeoff times.
Are there restrooms or a waiting area?
The operator provides several comfortable couches and two bathrooms for customers to use while waiting for their flight.
How should I dress for the flight?
Dress in layers so you can comfortably adjust to differing conditions; it is usually warmer inside the helicopter than outside.
What is the bag policy?
Any bag with a strap (backpacks, purses, etc.) cannot be brought on board; due to limited space, carry-on bags or purses are not allowed.
Do you offer discounts?
The operator offers a 10% discount to veterans, serving military and first responders, plus repeat-customer and group discounts — contact the operator to book and confirm eligibility.
What is the cancellation and rebooking policy?
Tours rebooked are subject to a $20 rescheduling fee per seat and may be rescheduled up to 24 hours prior; no-shows or arrivals more than 15 minutes late are billed the full price. In event of operator cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances, staff will work to rebook at no charge. All ticket and 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: 2026-09-18T12:03:16.297Z
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.