If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind fall adventure, helicopter rides in the Smokies are the way to go. These scenic flights certainly give you a bird’s-eye view of vibrant foliage, mountain peaks, and winding ridgelines—all from high above.
Each of these five helicopter tours in the Smokies brings something unique, from quick loops over Pigeon Forge to longer journeys across the Tennessee Valley.
🚁 Want more flight options? Browse additional helicopter tours in the Smokies HERE.
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Fly High: Take a Helicopter Ride in the Smokies
There’s nothing quite like seeing the Smoky Mountains from the sky.
Whether you’re chasing a golden sunset or soaking up panoramic views, helicopter rides in the Smokies deliver unforgettable scenery.
- Spring blooms
- Lush summer greens
- Bold fall colors—reds, oranges, and golds
- Winter’s snow-dusted peaks
No matter when you visit, the views are always worth it.
Here We Go – Helicopter Rides in the Smokies
🚁 Most tours lift off right from Pigeon Forge—super convenient if you’re staying in Gatlinburg, Townsend, or nearby.
🗺️ Choose your adventure:
- A quick scenic loop
- Or a longer flight that takes you deeper into the Smokies
🌲 Tennessee Trekkn Tip
Book your flight early—both in the day and on the calendar!
Morning flights offer smoother skies and dreamy lighting, but time slots fill up fast—especially during peak seasons. So, don’t wait to snag your seat in the sky!
1. Top Pick: Wears Valley – Scenic Helicopter Ride in the Smokies
Take in stunning views of Wears Valley on this 18-minute flight covering 36 miles. You’ll see highlights like Cove Mountain, Waldens Creek, and also the foothills of Bluff Mountain—all from high above.
- 18–23 minute scenic helicopter ride
- Views of Wears Valley, Cove Mountain & more
- Pilot narration through headsets
- Souvenir photos also available
- Max weight: 300 lbs per person; 600 lbs total for 3 passengers
👉 Book your Wears Valley helicopter ride HERE.
2. Budget Pick: Smoky Mountain Quick Hop – Short & Scenic Ride
New to helicopter rides? If so, this 10-mile flight is the perfect intro. It’s quick, affordable, and certainly full of excitement—ideal for first-time flyers or anyone short on time.
You’ll fly over the Little Pigeon River and downtown Sevierville, then wrap up with a stunning view of the Smoky Mountains.
- 10-mile scenic flight
- During your flight, enjoy sweeping views of Sevierville, the Little Pigeon River, and the Smoky Mountains.
- Headsets for in-flight communication
- Private helicopter with professional pilot
- Pre-flight VR simulator
- Photos also available for purchase
👉 Book your Smoky Mountain Quick Hop HERE.
Soaring High in the Sky?
If you love flying above the Smokies, don’t stop there!
Have you been to Gatlinburg SkyPark yet?
🌄 So, read the full post HERE – and get ready for more sky-high views and mountaintop memories.
3. Ridge Runner Smoky Mountain Helicopter Tour
So, next up—get ready for one of the most scenic helicopter rides in the Smokies. During this 15-minute flight, you’ll soar over Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and the Chilhowee Mountain Range—catching breathtaking views of Bluff and Sugarloaf Mountains along the way.
- 15-minute flight
- Views of Chilhowee, Bluff & Sugarloaf
- In-flight headsets
- Experienced pilot
- Souvenir photos also available
👉 Book your Ridge Runner Smoky Mountain helicopter flight HERE.
Planning Your Trip?
Turn your helicopter ride into a full Smoky Mountain experience:
- 🏕️ Find cozy cabins HERE – perfect for recharging after your adventure
- 🏨 Browse hotels HERE – close to all the action in Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg
- 🥾 Smoky Mountain adventures HERE – hikes, tours, and more to explore
4. Douglas Lake View Scenic Helicopter Tour
This 6-minute flight offers a scenic glimpse of Douglas Lake, the French Broad River, and the Smoky Mountain foothills—making it a great intro to helicopter rides in the Smokies.
- 6-minute ride over Douglas Lake & French Broad River
- Smoky Mountain views from the foothills
- Headsets and pilot narration
- Family-friendly and wheelchair accessible
- Souvenir photos and DVDs also available
👉 Book your Douglas Lake helicopter ride HERE.
5. The Great Smoky Tour – Ultimate Scenic Flight Experience
If you’re looking for the ultimate way to see it all, this tour is the one. Covering iconic sights across Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and also the Great Smoky Mountains, this ride is a top-tier experience from start to finish.

The flight takes you over Douglas Lake, through Wears Valley, past Mt. Le Conte, and also along the ridge of Bluff Mountain—then wraps up with a final sweep over the lively Pigeon Forge Strip.
- 🚁 20–27 minute helicopter ride covering 50 scenic miles
- Helicopter ride with professional pilot
- Headsets for in-flight communication
- 360° views of Douglas Lake, Wears Valley, Mt. Le Conte & Bluff Mountain
- Fly over Sevierville, Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg
- Photos taken upon landing (also available for purchase)
- Pre-flight VR simulator at the heliport
👉 Book your Great Smoky helicopter ride HERE.
🌟 Trekkn Favorites: Smoky Mountain Fun
While you’re planning your helicopter ride, don’t miss the chance to add even more excitement to your Smoky Mountain getaway. These nearby attractions are perfect for rounding out your adventure:
- 🎭 Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Dinner Show – So, after your flight, head over for Southern-style BBQ and thrilling lumberjack competitions. Grab your tickets HERE!
- 🎢 Mountain Roller Coaster – Next, race down the mountain on a coaster that weaves through the Smokies. Reserve your ride HERE!
- 🌄 Anakeesta – Then, elevate your day with mountaintop views, treetop adventures, and more. Book your adventure HERE!
Ready to Soar? Book Your Smoky Mountain Adventure Today
🚁 See the Smokies Like Never Before
From serene valleys to towering peaks, helicopter tours certainly give you a bird’s-eye view that’s hard to beat—no matter the season.
📸 Capture the Moments, Feel the Rush
Whether it’s your first ride or your fifth, each flight offers new perspectives and unforgettable memories.
🚁 Ready to Lift Off?
So go ahead and book your adventure HERE—your sky-high Smoky Mountain experience is waiting.
🔎 Want Even More Options?
We’ve only scratched the surface—Click HERE to discover more incredible Smoky Mountain helicopter tours.
Happy Trekkn: Spread the Fun!
After your high-flying adventure, don’t forget to spread the fun! Whether you’re snapping photos from the sky or grabbing a quick video of that unforgettable view, we’d love to see your Smoky Mountain memories.
So, be sure to tag us on social and use #TennesseeTrekkn to share the moment. Then, be sure to follow along on Facebook for even more Tennessee travel tips and future adventures coming your way.
I only share experiences I believe you’ll love. While Tennessee Trekkn is not responsible for tour operations, weather, or availability, I partner with trusted platforms to help you book with ease. When you reserve through my links, it supports this site—thank you!





