Helicopter Rides 2026

With parades, family, friends, delicious food, patriotism and unforgettable fireworks, there’s something special about Independence Day in east Idaho — especially when we’re celebrating the nation’s 250th birthday!

Now imagine experiencing the July 4 celebrations from the air on a helicopter ride!

EastIdahoNews.com is partnering with Les Schwab Tire Center to make it happen as part of the annual Riverfest in Idaho Falls.

For only $85 per person, riders will take off from Snake River Landing, soar over beautiful Idaho Falls to Ammon and fly over neighborhoods, the LDS Temple, Melaleuca Field, downtown and the gorgeous falls. You’re welcome to take as many photos (and videos) from the air as you want, and trust us — it will be a memory you’ll never forget.

DUE TO PARKING AT RIVERFEST, YOU’LL NEED TO BE ABLE TO WALK LONG DISTANCES. IF HEALTH, AGE OR OTHER FACTORS PREVENT YOU FROM WALKING A DISTANCE IN THE HEAT, YOU SHOULD NOT SIGN UP FOR A HELICOPTER RIDE. THERE IS NO SHUTTLE SERVICE OR TRANSPORTATION FOR RIDERS OTHER THAN WALKING.

Because we want as many of you up in the air as possible, we’ve expanded our hours this year. Rides begin at 9 a.m. and continue all day till 5:10 p.m. There may be a limited number of walkup seats available in the early evening but book early because those aren’t guaranteed!

There are up to six spaces available per helicopter ride, so you can bring your family, significant other or go with a group of friends!

To reserve your tickets, click on the time that you would like from the drop-down menu.

Also, don’t forget to order your limited-edition helicopter T-shirts! (You’ll have to hurry, though. There are only a limited number and sizes available.) Check them out in the shop!

IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER (READ THIS)

Once you have paid for the tickets, an email will be sent to you that you must print off (or have loaded on your phone) and bring with you. It will contain links to a waiver and a map of where the helicopter will take off.

Here’s what you need to know:

• You will need to arrive at the helicopter check-in tent 20 minutes before your flight. You need to be able to walk long distances, and give yourself time to walk — we won’t be providing a shuttle service. It’s OK to be very early, but it really stinks if you miss your flight if you’re even one minute late because …
• EVERY SEAT WILL SELL OUT, SO IF YOU ARE LATE AND MISS YOUR RIDE, WE CANNOT GET YOU ON ANOTHER FLIGHT. THERE WILL BE NO REFUNDS.
• If you have motion sickness or any severe medical condition, you should not fly.
• Children under 3 and pregnant mothers are not able to ride in the helicopter. Children 3 to 18 years old may ride if accompanied by an adult.
• We don’t allow pets on the helicopter, and we won’t be your pet-sitters.
• MAKE SURE YOU WEAR CLOSED-TOED SHOES. Shirts are also required.
• You must have fun. If you are boring, you should probably stay home.