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HLN destination photo
GTF destination photo

HLNGTF

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The Right Side is favored for its intimate views of the Missouri River corridor and the historic limestone cliffs of the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏞️

Gates of the Mountains

The spectacular 1,200-foot limestone cliffs famously documented by the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

🌊

Missouri River

Continuous views of the winding river as it carves through the deep canyons north of Helena.

💧

Hauser & Holter Lakes

Chain of blue reservoirs that fill the rugged canyons along the flight path.

🏙️

Great Falls Skyline

Panoramic views of 'The Electric City' and the Missouri River falls during the descent.

This is the 'river side.' Keep your eyes peeled roughly 5-10 minutes after takeoff for the narrowest part of the Missouri River canyon. Evening flights offer stunning reflections on the water's surface as the sun sets to the west.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🏔️

Rocky Mountain Front

Dramatic views of where the Great Plains abruptly meet the jagged peaks of the Continental Divide.

⛰️

Mount Helena

The iconic city landmark and surrounding parkland visible immediately upon departure from HLN.

🌲

Helena National Forest

Dense evergreen forests and rugged ridges stretching westward toward the Scapegoat Wilderness.

🌾

Sun River Valley

Productive agricultural plains that define the approach into the Great Falls basin.

Sit on the left for the best morning light on the mountains. This side is ideal for photographers interested in the high-contrast landscape where the mountains end and the plains begin. Choose a seat ahead of the wing to avoid engine heat blur.

Top Activities in Great Falls
Route Information

Distance: 108 km (67 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 11 min

Departure: HLN (46.6068000793457, -111.98300170898438)

Arrival: GTF (47.48199844, -111.3710022)

Route Type: Domestic

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