Knoxville Helicopter Tours

What do you see on a Smoky Mountains helicopter tour?

Smoky Mountain helicopter tours offer an incredible variety of scenic highlights depending on the tour you choose. On longer lake-and-mountain flights, you’ll soar over the French Broad River, the massive Douglas Dam, and the sparkling waters of Douglas Lake before ascending toward the foothills and peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains. Many tours also include overhead views of Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and the bustling Dollywood area.

On shorter mountain-focused routes, you’ll drift above rolling valleys, forested ridgelines, and sweeping vistas of the Smokies themselves — a nearly 360-degree aerial perspective that showcases the region’s beauty across all four seasons.

How long are Smoky Mountains helicopter tours?

There are several durations to choose from depending on what you'd like to see:

• Short Mountain Valley Flights (10–12 minutes): A quick but spectacular introduction to the Smoky Mountain landscape.
• Lake & Mountain Tours (20–30 minutes): A customer favorite combining beautiful waterways with dramatic mountain views.
• Extended Smoky Mountain Adventures (varies by parnter): Longer options provide deeper sightseeing into Wears Valley, Cove Mountain, and the western boundary of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

How much is a Smoky Mountains helicopter tour?

Because a variety of tour lengths and flight paths are available, pricing varies. In general:

• Mid-range flights (12–15 minutes): Approximately $100 per passenger
• Lake & Mountain scenic flights (25 minutes): Generally $230 per passenger

Prices depend on duration, aircraft type, and operational factors.

Where do Smoky Mountains helicopter tours depart from?

All Smoky Mountain helicopter rides depart from Sevierville, conveniently located near Pigeon Forge and just minutes from Dollywood and major Smoky Mountain attractions. This central location allows for quick access to both lake regions and mountain ridges.

Do Smoky Mountains helicopter tours fly over the National Park?

Helicopter tours fly along the boundary areas of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering breathtaking overhead views of major ridgelines, Wears Valley, Cove Mountain, and the rolling foothills leading into the park. For conservation reasons, tours do not fly directly over the high-traffic interior of the park, but the views from the perimeter are extraordinarily scenic and unobstructed.

Is there a best time of year to take a Smoky Mountains helicopter tour?

Every season offers something unique:

• Spring: Lush greenery and wildflower blooms.
• Summer: Vibrant forests and crystal-clear lake views.
• Fall: The Smokies’ famous reds, golds, and oranges — the most popular time to fly.
• Winter: Snow-dusted peaks and dramatic visibility on clear days.

There’s truly no off-season in the Smokies.

Can children take helicopter tours in the Smoky Mountains?

Yes! Children ages 2 and older are welcome, provided they can safely sit in their own seat and remain buckled for the duration of the flight, per FAA regulations. Families frequently enjoy these rides as a shared experience.

How do I book a Smoky Mountains helicopter tour?

Booking is simple. Each Smoky Mountain helicopter tour page includes a full description of what you’ll see and what to expect. Once you’ve found the flight that fits your adventure style, click the Book Now button or call our reservations team. You’ll be on your way to an unforgettable Smoky Mountains aerial experience!