Let us take you to a remote desert ghost town!

Swansea Town Site is three hours from Wickenburg by 4-wheel-drive vehicle, but only 40 minutes away by helicopter. We’ll fly west, over open desert, between the Harcuvar and Buckskin Mountains, crossing over only two paved roads in 50 miles. This is the area where Patton trained his tank crews for World War II and you might just see traces of their activity as we fly over the desert.

Just when you think you’re further from civilization than possible, we’ll descend on the remains of Swansea, a mining town that had its heyday in the early 20th century.

The town site, which is preserved and protected by the Bureau of Land Management, has many interesting ruins along its seven-stop walking tour.

While you’re taking in the sights, your pilot will set out some refreshments in the shade. Return when you’re ready and enjoy a snack.

The return to Wickenburg will be by way of the Bill Williams River, Alamo Dam, and Alamo Lake.

You can learn more about Swansea at the following Web sites:

• [1] wickenburg-az.com
• [2] BLM Lake Havasu Office

Trip Price (per flight for up to 3 people):
From Wickenburg: $795
From Prescott, Glendale, Phoenix (Deer Valley), or Scottsdale: $1,195
From Phoenix (Sky Harbor), Mesa, Chandler, Buckeye, or Avondale: $1,395

Trip Length:
Approximately 4 hours; with 1-1/2 to 2 hours of flight time (depending on starting point).

Price includes:
Flight as described for up to three people, BLM permit fee, walking tour map, and refreshments for all passengers.

Important Note:
The walking tour includes moderate walking on varied terrain. Passengers should wear good walking or hiking shoes, appropriate clothing, and sunscreen. Sandals are not recommended. Temperatures at Swansea are generally the same as in Phoenix, so dress accordingly.

Customize Your Flight

Have lunch at the Wayside Inn on the way back. Add $50.

See a video for this day trip!

[3] Our Video & Slide Shows video podcast includes images taken at Swansea Town Site during this day trip. You’ll need [4] iTunes, [5] QuickTime Player, or other compatible viewer software to watch it.

To automatically download all of our video podcasts as they are released, [6] subscribe to the podcast.