How To See Gods in Vegas (with Uncle Kracker)

The Grand Canyon is one of the most remarkable natural wonders in the world and considered to be one of the “Seven Wonders of the Natural World”.

I finally got my chance to view this spectacular natural formation in 2014 during a visit to Las Vegas, Nevada. At first sight, one is filled with awe and admiration for the ways of the natural world and makes one introspect the significance of humanity juxtaposed against the forces of nature.

It is interesting to note that we hold immense awe for this “wonder” when in fact it happens to be a symbol of immense destruction and turbulence caused by land formations and water erosion during the early geological eras.

The Grand Canyon has also nurtured several species of wildlife and fauna as well as generations of human dwellers. It is a perfect metaphor for the cycle of life – a continuum of destruction and creation through which life is sustained. This formation can truly be called an Act of God.

There are many ways to explore the Canyon – by land, water and air.

I chose to experience it by air with Sundance Helicopters of Las Vegas since I was short on time and not afford a whole day or two to explore (which BTW I hope to do someday).

Sundance Helicopters, the longest running helicopter tour operator in Las Vegas, recently unveiled its newly revamped helicopter terminal located at 5596 Haven Street, located at south of The Strip. The new terminal showcases the $2.5 million dollar renovation and 2,000 square‐foot expansion.

Another recent announcement made by the company was the unveiling of its spanking new EC130T2 Airbus Helicopters. The new EC130T2 provides improved performance and comfort over its predecessor, making it a preferred option for passenger tours. It is the quietest aircraft in its class, meeting or exceeding the most stringent noise standards, including the Grand Canyon. A Bose® sound system, leather energy absorbing seats, ample leg room, digital instrument panel and larger windows are just some of the advanced interior features on the EC130T2s. The Sundance Helicopter exterior design is an eye‐catching chrome plating with a silver and gold finish, a first for the EC130T2 helicopter. 

The New EC130T2 Helicopter

I went on their Grand Canyon Sunset Tour, which picks you up from your hotel in a limousine (Sundance is the only tour operator in Vegas that provides VIP executive limousine transportation for
all Grand Canyon passengers) and drops you off at the Sundance Terminal.

The aerial flight in the new helicopter is a fantastically smooth ride indeed, with reduced noise in cabin, and plush leather seats that makes it essentially and aerial limousine.

The flight takes you over the Hoover Dam, Mojave Desert, Lake Mead, Colorado River and of course through the Grand Canyon.

The chopper then lands in the middle of the Canyon on the Bluffs for a Champagne toast of the adventure followed by a picnic meal basket. By the time you return to the Vegas strip, it is twilight and you get a very different experience of the City at this time.

However, the best part of the journey is on the return trip over the Mojave Dessert. One of the key features of the helicopter ride is the music playlist that every pilot compiles for his/her ride. On my trip, during the return trip I got to enjoy one of the most incredible sunsets in the world, with the soothing tunes of Uncle Kracker’s “Drift Away” playing through the Bose headsets.

Now that, folks, is the closest experience to heaven on earth!

Other Interesting Facts about Sundance Helicopters:

• In business for more than 28 years
• 175 employees
• Las Vegas economic impact of over $50 million
• Longest standing and most experienced helicopter company in Las Vegas
• Delivered more than 4 million guests to the Grand Canyon
• Nine audio tour guide languages available
• Exclusive contract service provider to the U.S. Department of Defense and Department of Energy
• Famous Hollywood movies shot using their helicopters include: Ocean’s 11, Miss Congeniality 2, Into the Wild, Race to Witch Mountain

Disclaimer: Sundance Helicopters provided this experience as a complimentary tour for media review. All comments are my own. As with all adventure activities, personal experiences will vary for individuals and depending on weather conditions. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research prior to undertaking any activity. This feature is for general information and entertainment purposes. Therefore, no responsibility for loss occasioned by any person acting or refraining from action as a result of the material contained in this feature can be accepted by Larkycanuck.com and Larkycanuck Productions.

Tags: EC130T2, Grand Canyon Sunset Tour, Grand Canyon Tours, Helicopter Tours Las Vegas, Las Vegas, Sundance Helicopters

Category: Budget Adventure Travel, Las Vegas, USA Jaunts