If you’re like me and love the fall, then you’re in for an incredible adventure! Imagine soaring high above the Smoky Mountains, where the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the season stretch as far as the eye can see. Plus, with the cool, crisp air, there’s no better time to hop in a helicopter and take in the breathtaking views. So, if you’re looking for something unforgettable this fall, keep reading—you’re about to discover why helicopter rides in the Smokies are the ultimate way to experience it all!
Fly High: Take a Fall Helicopter Ride in the Smokies
Fall is the perfect time to visit the Smoky Mountains, and if you’re in Pigeon Forge, helicopter rides in the Smokies are the ideal way to soak in the beautiful fall scenery. These helicopter rides are located right in the Pigeon Forge area, so if you’re in Knoxville, it’s an easy and fun day trip. Plus, with Gatlinburg and Townsend just a short drive away, you’re never far from this exciting adventure. It’s truly a unique way to experience the Smokies from a whole new perspective!
Here We Go – Helicopter Rides in the Smokies
So, let’s get started and dive into the fun stuff! Most of these helicopter rides in the Smokies take off from Pigeon Forge, with several launch sites ready to kick off your adventure. Whether you’re staying in Gatlinburg, Townsend, or nearby, it’s just a quick drive to hop on board. With different tour options, you can go for a short scenic flight or take a longer ride that shows off even more of the Smokies!
1. Ridge Runner Smoky Mountain Helicopter Tour
Get ready for an unforgettable 15-minute helicopter ride over the Smoky Mountains! During your flight, you’ll soar above Sevierville, where you can take in breathtaking views of Pigeon Forge and the Tennessee Valley. Then, you’ll glide over the Chilhowee Mountain Range, flying above the beautiful forests of Smoky Mountain National Park. Along the way, you’ll also spot incredible landmarks like Bluff Mountain and Sugarloaf Mountain, offering a fresh perspective on these natural wonders.
What’s Included:
- 15-minute flight with views of Sevierville and Pigeon Forge
- Fly above Chilhowee, Bluff, and Sugarloaf Mountains
- Headsets are also provided for easy communication
- Professional guide/pilot for a smooth experience
- Souvenir photos also available for purchase
2. The Smoky Mountain Valley Adventure by Helicopter
So, get ready to soar above the Great Smoky Mountains on this thrilling helicopter tour that takes you over the Tennessee countryside. You’ll enjoy a 24-mile journey over untouched mountains like Bluff Mountain and Sugar Loaf Mountain, while your pilot shares fascinating details about the landscape during your flight.
What’s Included:
- Scenic 12-minute/16-mile helicopter ride over the Great Smoky Mountains with breathtaking views
- Learn about the mountains from your knowledgeable and experienced pilot
- Souvenir photos are available (also available for purchase)
- Several departure times are offered to suit your schedule
3. Douglas Lake View Scenic Helicopter Tour
Soar high above the Tennessee landscape on this stunning helicopter tour over the French Broad River, Douglas Lake, and the Great Smoky Mountains. During your flight, your pilot will share fascinating details about the area’s history and natural beauty, giving you a new perspective on this scenic region.
What’s Included:
- Enjoy a 6-minute helicopter tour featuring stunning views of Douglas Lake, a 33,000-acre manmade lake
- Also, take in breathtaking views of the French Broad River and the Great Smoky Mountains
- Headsets are provided, so you can easily communicate with your experienced guide/pilot
- Family-friendly experience with wheelchair accessibility
- Plus, DVD and souvenir photos are also available for purchase
You’ll love every second of this adventure, so don’t miss out—book your flight HERE!
4. Smoky Mountain Douglas Lake Ride
Get ready for an amazing adventure in the Smoky Mountains! Fly 1,000 feet above Douglas Lake, which has 500 miles of beautiful, untouched shoreline. You’ll also catch stunning views of the Smoky Mountains in the distance. As you glide through the sky, you’ll see the French Broad River, Douglas Lake Dam, and the iconic Smokies creating a breathtaking backdrop during your flight.
What’s Included:
- Private helicopter ride with stunning views of Douglas Lake’s shoreline
- Soar over the French Broad River and Douglas Lake Dam for a unique perspective
- Also, enjoy distant views of the beautiful Smoky Mountains
- Headsets provided for easy communication during the flight
- Plus, photos are also available for purchase after landing
You won’t want to miss these incredible views—book your private helicopter ride HERE!
5. Helicopter Ride in Smoky Mountain Pigeon Forge Strip Tour
This exciting tour covers a distance of 20 miles, giving you a stunning eagle’s-eye view of Pigeon Forge. During your flight, you’ll soar over The Island, with the mountains stretching out in the distance. Fly above downtown Sevierville and the Pigeon River, and take in the sights of the Pigeon Forge Strip, the Wheel at The Island, and the famous upside-down house at WonderWorks. It’s certainly a thrilling way to see the hustle and bustle of the area from above!
What’s Included:
- 20-mile flight with views of Pigeon Forge and Sevierville
- See iconic spots like The Island, WonderWorks, and the Pigeon Forge Strip
- Headsets provided for clear communication during the flight
- Also, photos taken upon landing (available for purchase)
- Professional pilot/guide ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride
So, if you’re ready to take in the stunning views from above, book your adventure in the skies HERE!
6. Extended Douglas Lake Helicopter Tour
During this extended flight, you’ll fly high above the Tennessee countryside on this helicopter tour over the French Broad River, Douglas Lake, and the Great Smoky Mountains. With extra elevation, you’ll get even broader views of the landscape, especially focusing on Douglas Lake and Douglas Dam. Plus, included headsets make it easy to hear your pilot’s narration as you weave through the sky. This tour is wheelchair accessible and family-friendly, so it’s perfect for everyone.
What’s Included:
- 8-minute, 16-mile helicopter flight with stunning Douglas Lake views
- Extra elevation for even better scenic views
- Professional guide/pilot
- Headsets for easy communication
- Souvenir photos available for purchase
Ready for this incredible experience? Book your flight HERE!
7. Smoky Mountains Intro Helicopter Ride – Top Pick for Affordability
So, the Smoky Mountains Intro Helicopter Ride isn’t just any flight—it’s your express ticket to soaring above the Smokies! During this tour, you’ll enjoy a quick and exciting experience that’s perfect for first-time flyers. Also, this ride combines affordability with plenty of fun, offering stunning 180-degree views above Soaky Mountain Waterpark and a direct flight over the Wilderness Golf Course. Along the way, you’ll take in beautiful sights of Sevierville and the Smoky Mountains. Families and aviation newcomers also love this ride, as it’s a great way to enjoy the thrill of flight and earn your wings.
What’s Included:
- Headsets provided for all passengers
- Private helicopter with a professional guide/pilot
- Photos captured upon landing (also available for purchase)
Afterwards, you’ll be ready to book your next adventure—so book your unforgettable intro ride HERE!
8. Smoky Mountain Quick Hop Ride
During this helicopter tour, you’ll fly over the Smoky Mountains and enjoy amazing views. Whether it’s your first flight or not, this ride is unforgettable. Plus, you’ll pass by Sevierville and the Little Pigeon River, showing you new sights from above. So, if you want a fun and quick adventure, this tour is perfect. Also, every second is filled with excitement!
What’s Included:
- Private helicopter ride with a professional pilot/guide
- Headsets for clear communication
- Virtual Reality Simulator experience before the flight
- Photos captured upon landing ( also available for purchase)
- Departure from the closest heliport to the Great Smoky Mountains
Ready to see the Smokies from above? Book your adventure HERE and let the fun begin!
Ready to Soar? Book Your Smoky Mountain Adventure Now
No matter which helicopter rides in the Smokies you choose, flying over the Smoky Mountains is certainly an experience you’ll never forget. Every ride offers something special because of the breathtaking fall colors and sweeping mountain views. During your flight, you’ll take in the beauty of the Smokies from a whole new perspective. So, if you’re ready for an adventure like no other, it’s time to book your flight and enjoy this incredible opportunity to see one of America’s most beautiful landscapes!
Share Your High-Flying Adventures with Us
So, you’ve soared through the skies—now it’s time to share your amazing experience! Whether you’re snapping photos or capturing videos, we’d love to see it. Tag us on Instagram and use the hashtag #TennesseeTrekkn to join the fun. Also, be sure to check out our Facebook page and keep an eye on our YouTube channel—fun things are coming soon!
Best Places to Stay While Enjoying the Smokies
When exploring the Smokies, having the right place to stay makes all the difference! Whether you prefer a cozy cabin, a stylish hotel, or a scenic mountain lodge, there are plenty of great options for your trip. From Gatlinburg to Pigeon Forge and Sevierville, you’ll certainly find the perfect spot to rest and recharge after a day of adventure in the Smoky Mountains.
Explore Even More Fun in the Smokies!
While helicopter rides are an unforgettable way to see the Smokies, there’s so much more to do! Check out our Things to Do section for more fun adventures and attractions. If you’re feeling adventurous, hit the trails for a scenic hike. But, don’t stop there—be sure to add these exciting experiences to your itinerary:
- Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Dinner Show: Enjoy exciting lumberjack action and some good ol’ Southern barbecue!
- Mountain Roller Coaster – Race down the mountain for a thrilling ride.
- Dollywood – Experience rides, shows, and the charm of Dolly’s theme park.
- Anakeesta – Enjoy a mountaintop adventure park with stunning views.
Well, we hope you have an amazing visit to Pigeon Forge and enjoy every moment! So, stay tuned for more adventures in Tennessee, and don’t forget to subscribe for updates right to your inbox! Keep creating unforgettable memories—happy Trekkn’, friends!
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