45-minute helicopter tour departing from Duluth

Helicopter overflight around Duluth

This helicopter tour in Duluth offers a scenic flight of about 45 minutes (about 60 miles) over Lake Superior, the North Shore, and Jay Cooke State Park. Departure is from Duluth International Airport, with an experienced pilot who adjusts the route to highlight the best viewpoints and vary the scenery.

Heading toward Jay Cooke State Park, the flight follows the St. Louis River area at several hundred feet of altitude, which completely changes the perspective on its meanders, dams, and waterfall areas. This helicopter tour also flies over Ely’s Peak and Spirit Mountain, then the North Shore with landmarks like Glensheen Mansion, Hawks Ridge, or the Lester River. On the approach back to Duluth, the panorama becomes more urban with easy-to-spot landmarks like Enger Tower, the Aerial Lift Bridge, or Superior Harbor.

Practical information

The flight is listed at around 45 minutes (about 60 miles) departing from Duluth International Airport. It is flown in a Robinson R44, appreciated for its large windows, practical for photos with minimal reflections, a light helicopter often used for small-group scenic flights. The cabin is designed for sightseeing, with wide side visibility, which helps you follow ground landmarks and take photos more easily.

The onboard format stays compact and focused on the overflight, with a pilot who manages the route and flight pace depending on the area flown over and the day’s conditions. The maximum weight is 280 lb per passenger, comfortable clothing suited to the weather is recommended, as well as sunglasses. You can bring a camera, and the cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 48 hours before the flight.