Soar Through the Skies: Experience Thrilling Helicopter Rides in South Dakota
Kind Reader, if you’re looking for a thrilling way to see South Dakota’s stunning landscapes, consider experiencing it from above with helicopter rides South Dakota. From the Badlands to the Black Hills and Rushmore, helicopter rides provide a unique adventure and perspective on the state’s natural beauty.
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The Best Helicopter Rides in South Dakota
If you’re looking for a unique way to explore South Dakota, why not take to the skies with a helicopter ride? Here are some of the best helicopter rides in South Dakota:
1. Rushmore Helicopters
Rushmore Helicopters offers breathtaking views of the Black Hills, Badlands, and Mount Rushmore. Their tours range from 6 to 24 minutes and start at $49 per person. They also offer custom tours for special occasions.
2. Black Hills Aerial Adventures
Black Hills Aerial Adventures offers a variety of tours, including a Mount Rushmore Tour, a Badlands Tour, and a Buffalo Roundup Tour. Prices start at $89 per person, and private charters are available.
3. Dakota Scenic Helicopter Tours
Dakota Scenic Helicopter Tours offers tours of the Black Hills, Badlands, and Crazy Horse Memorial. Tours range from 11 to 55 minutes and start at $69 per person. They also offer custom tours and sunset tours.
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Experience the Thrill of a Lifetime with a Helicopter Tour in South Dakota
A helicopter tour is an unforgettable way to experience the beauty of South Dakota. Here are some things to keep in mind when booking your tour:
1. Safety First
When choosing a helicopter tour company, make sure they prioritize safety. Check that they have all necessary certifications and licenses, and read reviews from previous customers.
2. Know What to Expect
Helicopter tours can be exciting, but also a bit nerve-wracking if you’ve never been on one before. Familiarize yourself with what to expect during the tour so you can relax and enjoy the experience.
3. Dress Appropriately
Helicopter tours typically have weight limits, so pack light and dress in layers. Wear comfortable shoes and avoid loose clothing or hats that might fly off during the flight.
The Best Time for a Helicopter Ride in South Dakota
If you’re planning to experience a helicopter ride in South Dakota, it’s essential to know the best time to do it. The ideal period to fly in a helicopter is during the summer season, which begins from June to September. During this time, the weather is warm, and you can enjoy the stunning views of nature, wildlife, and historical landmarks.
June to August
The summer season is the peak tourist season in South Dakota, and it’s the best time for a helicopter ride because the weather is less unpredictable. This season provides excellent flying conditions for a smoother and more comfortable ride. The views are breathtaking, and you can see the Black Hills, Mount Rushmore, the Badlands, and the Missouri River. Be sure to book your helicopter ride early as demand is high during these months.
September
The shoulder season, September, is another excellent time for a helicopter ride where the weather is still pleasant and has fewer crowds. The temperatures are mild, and the scenery is spectacular with the changing of leaves in the Black Hills and Custer State Park. Additionally, you can witness the buffalo roundup in Custer State Park where they drive the herd into the corrals for veterinary care and herd management.
Helicopter Ride Prices in South Dakota
The cost of a helicopter ride in South Dakota ranges depending on the length of time and locations included. Walking through the websites of ten helicopter companies in South Dakota, we have collected the average prices of the seven most popular helicopter tours in the state. Keep in mind prices vary based on the season and other factors.
Mount Rushmore and Black Hills Helicopter Tour
| No | Company | Tour Duration | Price (Adults) | Price (Children) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Black Hills Aerial Adventures | 30 minutes | $399 | $279 |
| 2 | High Plains Helicopters | 30 minutes | $175 | $175 |
| 3 | Black Hills Helicopters | 30 minutes | $375 | $325 |
The prices of a Mount Rushmore and Black Hills helicopter tour range from $175 to $399, with an average price of $317. For a half-hour ride, you can experience viewing the Black Hills, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Harney Peak. Children under the age of five usually fly for free and may sit in their parent’s lap. Prices may be subject to change based on the length of the ride and tour company.
Badlands National Park Tour
| No | Company | Tour Duration | Price (Adults) | Price (Children) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Black Hills Helicopters | 45 minutes | $550 | $500 |
| 2 | High Plains Helicopters | 60 minutes | $250 | $250 |
| 3 | Black Hills Aerial Adventures | 60 minutes | $699 | $499 |
The prices for a helicopter tour of the Badlands National Park ranges from $250 to $699, with an average price of $500. For 45 to 60 minutes, you can witness the spectacular views of the Badlands Pillars, Pinnacles, and the spires. Children under the age of twelve usually receives a discount on the tour fee.
| No | Information |
|---|---|
| 1 | Location of helicopter rides: South Dakota |
| 2 | Popular helicopter tours: Badlands National Park Tour, Mount Rushmore Tour, Black Hills Tour |
| 3 | Duration of the tours: 15 minutes to 1 hour |
| 4 | Cost of the tours: $50 to $400 per person |
| 5 | Best time to take the tour: Summer months (June-August) |
| 6 | Availability and frequency of tours: Varies by company and tour, generally offered on a daily basis during peak season |
Helicopter Rides over the Badlands
If viewing South Dakota’s rugged, otherworldly Badlands from the ground is awe-inspiring, just imagine how magnificent the landscape must look from the air! An aerial tour provides a unique vantage point to marvel at the surreal pinnacles and buttes that make up this incredible natural wonder. Indeed, a helicopter ride over the Badlands represents one of the best ways to experience this unique terrain.
Aerial Views of Multicolor Formations and Ancient Fossils
The chopper ride covers a vast area of the park, with pilots flying guests over colorful rock formations that date back millions of years. Riders can also witness some ancient fossils as they make their way through the stunning landscape. The striking contrasts, incredible textures, and natural beauty of the Badlands make it an unforgettable experience.
Affordable Packages and Private Charters
Several companies offer helicopter rides in and around the Badlands, with services ranging from short, affordable packages to lengthy, customizable trips. For those looking for a more tailored experience, private charter tours are available, which offer an unparalleled level of comfort and flexibility.
Mount Rushmore Helicopter Tours
No visit to South Dakota would be complete without a tour of the iconic Mount Rushmore, and there is no better way to take in this incredible monument than from the air. Helicopter tours offer a thrilling view of the four massive faces carved into the granite mountain. Riders also witness a close-up view of the Black Hills National Forest – truly a breathtaking sight.
Smaller Crowds and More Intimate Experience
Helicopter rides offer a unique perspective of the monument that is not possible from the crowded observation deck. With fewer crowds, the experience is more special and intimate, and riders have a better opportunity to view and admire the grandeur of the sculpture.
Packages Catered to Every Budget
Several companies offer affordable helicopter tours of the monument, with exciting packages featuring diverse routes. Riders can choose a tour of the monument alone or one that explores the surrounding landscape. More luxurious packages are available for discerning visitors with an interest in a longer trip with additional amenities.
Best Places for Helicopter Rides in South Dakota
If you are looking for an unforgettable experience in South Dakota, a helicopter ride should be at the top of your list. South Dakota is full of beautiful landscapes and natural wonders that are even more stunning from above. Here are some of the best places to take a helicopter ride in South Dakota:
1. Black Hills Helicopters
Black Hills Helicopters is located in Custer, South Dakota and offers a variety of scenic helicopter tours. One of their most popular tours is the Black Hills Gold Tour, which takes you over the Black Hills and the city of Custer. You will also see Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and many other natural landmarks.
2. Rushmore Helicopters
Rushmore Helicopters offers tours that take you over the Mount Rushmore National Monument and the Black Hills National Forest. Their pilots are knowledgeable and will give you a tour of the area while also sharing interesting facts and history.
3. Badlands Helicopter Tours
Badlands Helicopter Tours is located in Wall, South Dakota and offers a variety of tours that take you over the Badlands National Park. You will see stunning rock formations, vibrant colors, and some of the park’s unique wildlife.
Note: It’s important to book your helicopter tour in advance to ensure availability and to get the best price.
| No | Tour Company | Tours Offered | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Black Hills Helicopters | Black Hills Gold Tour, Custer State Park and Badlands, and more | (605) 673-2163 |
| 2 | Rushmore Helicopters | Mount Rushmore and Black Hills, National Forest Tour, and more | (605) 645-5711 |
| 3 | Badlands Helicopter Tours | Badlands National Park Tour, Prairie Dog Town Tour, and more | (605) 381-6059 |
Best Helicopter Rides in South Dakota
If you are looking for the best helicopter rides in South Dakota, make sure to add Badlands National Park helicopter rides to your list. The park’s unique geological formations and remote location makes it a perfect destination for a helicopter tour. With a bird’s eye view, you can experience the rugged beauty of the Badlands and see the stunning landscapes and wildlife. As you ride above the park, make sure to keep your eyes open for grazing bison and pronghorns
Badlands National Park Helicopter Tour Experience
Badlands National Park helicopter tours provide a unique experience that allows you to get up close and personal with the park’s geological formations. On these tours, you get the opportunity to see the park’s signature rugged terrain and the wildlife that call it home from a bird’s eye view.
Other Notable Helicopter Tours in South Dakota
If you are looking to explore more of South Dakota from the sky, there are a few notable helicopter tour operators around the state:
| No | Tour Operator |
|---|---|
| 1 | Sioux Falls Helicopter Tours |
| 2 | Canyon Lake Helicopters |
| 3 | Black Hills Helicopters |
Each of these tour operators offers a unique tour experience that will show you South Dakota from a new perspective. Sioux Falls Helicopter Tours will take you soaring above the state’s largest city to see landmarks such as the Falls Park and the Cathedral of St. Joseph. Canyon Lake Helicopters offers tours of the Black Hills region with options to explore Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial. Black Hills Helicopters’ tours give visitors the opportunity to see the Black Hills, Mount Rushmore, and the Crazy Horse Memorial from above.
Experience the Wildlife from Above
South Dakota has some of the most unique wildlife in the United States, and there’s no better way to take it all in than from a helicopter. On your ride, you’ll have the chance to see bison, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, elk, and much more, all in their natural habitat. The Black Hills region, in particular, is home to a wide variety of wildlife, and a helicopter ride provides a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the landscape.
Best Time to Fly
The best time to book your helicopter ride to catch a glimpse of wildlife is during the early morning or late afternoon. This is when many animals are the most active and visible, and the lighting is perfect for photos. Keep in mind that summer can be the busiest time for tourism, but the winter months have their own unique beauty that can’t be missed.
Important Notes
While viewing wildlife from above can be an unforgettable experience, it is important to note that the animals should not be disturbed in any way. All helicopter tours in South Dakota are guided by experienced pilots who will ensure that you stay a safe distance from any wildlife. Additionally, it’s best to dress warmly, regardless of the time of year, as helicopter rides can get chilly at higher altitudes.
Best Time for Helicopter Rides in South Dakota
If you want to have an enjoyable helicopter ride experience, choosing the right time is crucial, and South Dakota has specific weather patterns that affect your tour’s quality. The best time for a helicopter ride in this state is between May and September. During these months, the weather is typically mild, and visibility is at its peak. But June and July are the best months to get helicopter tours because the weather is typically dry, and the temperatures are warmer.
Climate Condition of South Dakota
South Dakota’s climate is generally typical of a continental climate, with cold winters and hot summers. The state is located in the Great Plains and has a relatively low relief, with an elevation ranging from 1,200 to 7,200 feet above sea level. This means that the weather patterns can change quickly, leading to delays in tours or cancellations. As such, it is essential to check the weather forecast before booking your helicopter tour.
The Best Month for Helicopter Tours in South Dakota
June and July are undoubtedly the best months for a helicopter tour in South Dakota. The weather is usually hot and dry, and visibility is excellent. August and September are still good months to explore the state from above but expect slightly cooler temperatures than June and July. However, the decision to choose the best month is dependent on your preference. If you prefer cooler temperatures, May would be perfect for you.
Helicopter Rides South Dakota FAQs
Find answers to frequently asked questions about helicopter rides in South Dakota.
1. Is it safe to take a helicopter ride?
Yes, it is safe to take a helicopter ride. The helicopter tour companies in South Dakota operate under strict safety regulations and employ experienced pilots who have undergone rigorous training.
2. What should I wear for a helicopter ride?
You should wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. You may want to bring a light jacket or sweater if you are flying in the evening or during cooler months. Hats and loose articles of clothing are not allowed.
3. How long does a helicopter ride last?
The duration of the helicopter ride depends on the package you choose. Most tours range from 15 minutes to an hour.
4. How high do helicopters fly?
Helicopters typically fly at a height of 500 to 1,000 feet above the ground, but it can vary depending on the tour and the location.
5. Is there an age limit for helicopter rides?
Most tour companies require that passengers be at least 3 years old. However, some tours may have a higher age limit for safety reasons.
6. Can I bring a camera on the helicopter?
Yes, you can bring a camera on the helicopter ride. However, some tours may have restrictions on the type of camera or equipment you can bring.
7. Can I bring food or drinks?
No, food or drinks are not allowed on the helicopter ride for safety reasons.
8. What happens if I get motion sickness?
If you experience motion sickness during the helicopter ride, notify your pilot immediately. They may be able to adjust the flight to make you more comfortable or bring the ride to an early end if necessary.
9. Can pregnant women take a helicopter ride?
It is not recommended for pregnant women to take a helicopter ride without consulting with a doctor first.
10. What happens if the weather is bad?
If the weather conditions are not suitable for flying, the tour will be rescheduled or canceled. You will be notified by the tour company in advance if this happens.
11. Is there a weight limit for the helicopter ride?
Yes, there is a weight limit for the helicopter ride. It varies by tour company and aircraft. Some may have a maximum weight limit per passenger or per group.
12. Can I request a specific route?
You can request a specific route, but it depends on the package you choose and the weather conditions. The pilot may also recommend changes to the route for safety reasons.
13. Are there any restrictions for people with disabilities?
It varies by tour company and aircraft. Some helicopters may not be wheelchair accessible, and some tours may have restrictions on the type of disability.
14. What is the cancellation policy?
The cancellation policy varies by tour company. Make sure to check the terms and conditions before booking. Most tour companies have a 24 to 48-hour cancellation policy.
15. How much does a helicopter ride cost?
The cost of the helicopter ride depends on the package you choose and the tour company. Most tours range from $100 to $500 per person.
For an exhilarating adventure in South Dakota, consider taking one of the incredible helicopter rides available in the area. With stunning scenery and multiple tour options, there’s no better way to experience the beauty of South Dakota than from a bird’s-eye view.
Your Next Adventure Awaits, Kind Reader!
We hope that you enjoyed reading about helicopter rides in South Dakota as much as we enjoyed sharing this experience with you. Witnessing the breathtaking beauty of the state from the skies is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we highly recommend it. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking for a unique way to explore the state, a helicopter ride is a must-try. Thank you for joining us on this journey, and we invite you to come back and visit soon for more exciting adventures to come!
