Why Winter Flight-Seeing is a Must-Try Activity in Squamish

Why Flight-Seeing is a Must-Try Activity in Squamish

Autumn and winter are some of the most spectacular seasons to soar over Squamish. The rapidly changing alpine environment can range from teal blue lakes dusted with snow to icy mountaintops coated in hoarfrost or an unending blanket of fresh snow. From September to October, you will also be greeted with a patchwork of fall foliage, high flowing rivers and spectacular light conditions over Howe Sound Fjord. With such changing conditions, every day is a once in a lifetime experience.

The Experience

From the Squamish Airport, unobstructed views of the Tantalus Range will greet you from across the runway. Arrive early to scope out your future flight path and give yourself ample time to check-in before your departure. All tours will rise high above the airport and the Squamish Valley before heading on route to your destination. Available flights can take you soaring over Squamish, Vancouver, Garibaldi Park, Whistler, Tantalus Provincial Park and more. Private charters are also available. 

Heli-Seeing Tours

We've recommended a few flightseeing tours below. Please contact the operator for more details on what they offer and to book. You won't regret it!

Squamish Epic - Blackcomb Helicopters

Photo: Blackcomb Helicopters

Spend 24 minutes in the air over the famed Stawamus Chief granite wall, the incredible estuary where the Squamish River meets the Pacific Ocean, and through the immense glaciers of the Tantalus Range. The tour includes a complimentary alpine landing in the Tantalus Mountains.
*Landing is subject to weather

Good to know: Due to helicopter capacity, four people are needed to book this experience. 

Howe Sound - Black Tusk Helicopters

Photo: Black Tusk Heli

Take a scenic flight through the Coast Mountains to the tip of Howe Sound and over the Stawamus Chief’s 700-metre granite cliffs. On your way, you will also pass by the renowned Shannon Falls, AKA British Columbia's 3rd highest waterfall. Watch for the many snowcapped mountains behind the Sea to Sky Gondola; the Sky Pilot Massif is a sight to behold in the winter.

Sea to Sky Pilot- Sea to Sky Air

Photo: Sea to Sky Air

Gasp in awe as you fly through regions of Squamish that most locals don’t even know exist and photograph areas explored only by grizzly bears, goats, eagles, and backcountry enthusiasts. On the Sea to Sky Pilot tour, you’ll get a little bit of all things Squamish rolled into one. Alpine lakes, jagged peaks, secret waterfalls, and rambling glaciers are just a few of the unforgettable sights and wait until you see the Tantalus Range in all of its glory. 

Heli-Skiing and Heli-Boarding

Photo: Phantom Heli

If you want to go flightseeing AND get in a sweet skiing or snowboading adventure, Heli tours are available through Blackcomb Helicopters, Blacktusk Helicopters and Phantom Heli. This is backcountry access that provides landscapes and terrain for any avid skier or boarder, from steep alpine bowls to treeline cruisers.