Heli & Flight-Seeing
Heli & Flight-Seeing in Squamish
You love playing in the mountains, but how about seeing them from the sky? Soar above and around some of the Sea to Sky’s most iconic peaks and prehistoric glaciers, each with their own personality and unique features. Forged by powerful volcanoes and towering glaciers, the landscape is a sight to behold, dotted with hidden tarns, craggy peaks, and lush vegetation.
Hop in a small plane or helicopter for an unforgettable aerial tour that will provide 360-degree views of the Coast Mountains, the mighty Pacific Ocean, and the many waterfalls, lakes, and rivers that feed into the sea. Take the adventure to new heights and fly into remote areas for overnight camping, alpine hut stays and backcountry activities.
What to do
Heli-Assisted Activities
Helicopter and airplane access brings you further into some of the Sea to Sky’s most wild and geologically diverse terrain. Pair your aerial tour with a fun day or multi-day activity, such as ski touring, backcountry hiking, mountain biking or stand-up paddleboarding. Fly to a backcountry hut perched atop one of the highest peaks in the area, or enjoy a picnic with the ultimate view.
Where to go
Rumbling Glacier
Aptly named Rumbling Glacier is a massive yawn of ice that cascades down Mount Tantalus, creating large crevices and mesmerizing patterns. During the warmer months, you may see and hear waterfalls and snowmelt beneath the glacial ice as the water makes its way down to rivers, lakes and oceans below.
The Squamish Estuary
Soar above the Squamish River Estuary, where land, river, and sea meet to form a beautiful abstract painting created by nature. From a bird’s eye view, you can see the collision of colours in vibrant blues and greens: the silty Squamish River, the turquoise waters of Howe Sound, and the lush land.
Lake Lovely Water
Lake Lovely Water is a stunning sub-alpine lake perched at the foot of sky-high peaks of the Tantalus Range. The cool lake is surrounded by forest and glaciated terrain at higher elevations. Book an aerial tour, get dropped off to stay in the alpine hut, or have a day picnic and cast a line, as the lake is stocked annually with trout.
Sphinx Glacier
The commanding Sphinx Glacier is located on the far side of Garibaldi Lake and situated in the midst of ancient volcanic landscapes. Get a bird’s eye view of the fascinating ice patterns and gain a greater appreciation for the power and beauty of nature.
Sky Pilot
Sky Pilot Mountain is so iconic, Howe Sound Brewing named a beer after it. The pointed pinnacle, which can be seen from the viewing platform at Sea to Sky Gondola, is even grander up close when viewed from the air.
Phantom Lake
Soar above million-year-old peaks with the history of time written on their worn rock faces. This aptly named alpine lake, tucked deep into the Tantalus Mountain range, is remote and difficult to access. Swim in the inviting turquoise waters or enjoy a peaceful picnic with 360-degree mountain vistas.
Useful information
Most flights depart from the Squamish Airport, which is located in Brackendale, about 10 minutes by car or 40 minutes by bus from downtown Squamish.
Weather may impact your flight. Helicopters, in particular, cannot fly in low-lying clouds and you may experience delays.
Check with your provider to see if there are any capacity requirements.
Many local flight operators are working towards a more sustainable future. Blackcomb Helicopters has a robust sustainability program and is now 100% carbon neutral. Sea to Sky Air has a climate action program to measure carbon emissions and reduce or offset them. Harbour Air, which recently launched a new seaplane dock in Squamish, is carbon neutral and on the path to becoming the world’s first all-electric airline.
When you head further into remote backcountry areas, you are likely to encounter and impact wildlife. Cougars, Black and Grizzly Bears, and Mountain Goats are among the many terrestrial residents of the Coast Mountain range. Reduce your impact on them by leaving plenty of space, storing food safely, and being aware of your surroundings.
When
Know Before You Go
Shops, Tour Providers & Outfitters
Set yourself up for success with gear, guides and some local know-how.
Hear the call of the wild beckoning you.
Whether you are looking to push limits, enjoy a fun day out or just appreciate the views, you will not lack inspiration.