The 8 Best Helicopter Flights & Tours in Sevierville
Sevierville offers more than just Dolly Parton fame and mountain views — it’s a prime place to experience aerial adventures over the Great Smoky Mountains. Unlike traditional sightseeing, helicopter tours give you a bird’s-eye perspective on this rugged region, revealing details you simply can’t see from the ground. Whether you want a quick thrill or a comprehensive flight over the entire area, Sevierville’s helicopter tours deliver an unforgettable perspective on the wilderness, lakes, and towns below.
Many tours are tailored for different interests, from first-timers seeking a brief overview to seasoned travelers wanting an in-depth journey. Plus, with a variety of durations, prices, and routes, there’s an option suited for every schedule and budget. These flights aren’t just about the views—they’re about seeing the mountains, lakes, and towns from new angles, often with guided narration that adds an educational touch to your adventure.
If you’re planning your trip, consider that some tours focus on specific areas like Wears Valley or Douglas Lake, while others encompass the entire Smoky Mountain region. Booking early is smart, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot. Now, let’s explore the very best options available.
Quick Overview
This list covers eight outstanding helicopter tours around Sevierville, each offering unique highlights. The tours range from a quick 4-minute “Intro Flight” to an immersive 20-minute ride over the Smoky Mountains, Wears Valley, and Douglas Lake. Popular choices include the Smoky Mountain Valley Adventure—a 12-minute scenic flight with guided narration—and the Wears Valley Tour, which offers a 36-mile journey over some of Tennessee’s most picturesque terrain. For those looking to go all out, the Great Smoky Mountain Tour provides a full 20 to 27-minute experience covering multiple sights from Douglas Lake to downtown Sevierville.
Below, you’ll find detailed insights into each tour, helping you decide which experience fits your interests and schedule.
1. The Smoky Mountain Valley Adventure by Helicopter
Flying high above the Great Smoky Mountains, this 12-minute tour is perfect for those wanting a quick but memorable introduction to the region. You’ll soar over a 24-mile stretch of undeveloped mountain terrain, including Bluff Mountain and Sugar Loaf Mountain, both carved by glaciers at the end of the last ice age.
What sets this tour apart is its blend of stunning visuals and engaging narration. Your pilot shares insights about the environment, helping you understand what you’re seeing—long mountain ranges, lush forests, and the unique geological features. The flight offers incredible views of Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Bluff Mountain, making it ideal for groups or families seeking a special Smoky Mountain experience without a long commitment.
The reviews highlight the friendly staff, smooth flights, and knowledgeable pilots like Galen and Tyler who provide a friendly atmosphere. At $94.34 per person, the price offers good value considering the breathtaking scenery packed into just 12 minutes. Best suited for travelers with limited time yet eager for a scenic taste of the mountains.
Bottom Line: A short, affordable flight ideal for first-timers wanting a taste of the Smokies with informative narration and fantastic views.
2. Scenic Helicopter Tour of Wears Valley, Tennessee
At around $158 per person for approximately 18 minutes, this tour extends your sightseeing with a 36-mile journey over Wears Valley and the surrounding national park. Your pilot guides you past Cove Mountain, Waldens Creek, and the foothills of Bluff Mountain, providing detailed commentary via in-flight headsets.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on the Wears Valley area, a favorite for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. You’ll see the valley from above, gaining a fresh perspective on its features like the Appalachian terrain and the lush forests covering the mountains. The 18-minute flight allows plenty of time to take in the sights and snap photos of the landscape below, making it a favorite for first-timers and those wanting a bit more than a quick peek.
Guests consistently praise the pilot’s courteous and entertaining manner, with some noting it was their first helicopter ride and the best view they had during their trip. The price reflects the longer flight time and the immersive experience, making it a good value for nature lovers craving a deeper look at the Smoky Mountains.
Bottom Line: An 18-minute scenic flight that offers a detailed look at Wears Valley and the surrounding mountains, perfect for travelers who want a more in-depth experience.
3. Helicopter Ride in Smoky Mountain Sevierville Great Smoky Tour
For around $320, this extensive 20- to 27-minute tour is the most comprehensive option on the list. It’s a true bucket-list experience, combining views of Douglas Lake, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Mt. Le Conte—all in one flight.
This tour begins with a dramatic ascent over Douglas Lake, a reservoir created by the Douglas Dam. You’ll then fly over Sevierville, historic hometown of Dolly Parton, gaining a full 180° view of its downtown. As your pilot points out key sights, you’ll see the Pigeon Forge Strip, Dollywood, and even the peaks of Mt. Le Conte, the third highest mountain in the Smokies. The highlight is the ability to see multiple landmarks in one smooth flight—the kind of experience that’s worth splurging for.
The reviews note the spectacular visuals and the professional, friendly pilots like Tyler, who enhances the experience with informative commentary. The longer duration makes it a good choice for travelers eager to see a broad swath of the region in a single outing.
Bottom Line: The most complete helicopter tour, ideal for travelers wanting to see the entire Smoky Mountain region from above in one go.
4. Helicopter Ride in Smoky Mountain Sevierville Douglas Lake Tour
Pricing at $102 per person for roughly 7-12 minutes, this tour focuses on Douglas Lake and the surrounding dam. It’s a shorter, more affordable option for those interested in the area’s reservoir and its history.
You’ll start by soaring over Douglas Dam, built in 1943 to help win World War II, giving you a sense of the area’s significance. The flight then dips down to show the 500 miles of shoreline at Douglas Lake, where you can spot recreational spots, fishing areas, and the stunning waters. The tour also includes views of the French Broad River, one of the oldest rivers in the world, and the Little Pigeon River, famous for the Old Mill in Pigeon Forge.
Reviews mention the friendly staff and the “sheer magnificence” of the lake from above, making it a good fit for those seeking a quick, scenic overview of one of the area’s key features.
Bottom Line: A focused, time-efficient tour highlighting Douglas Lake and its historical dams, perfect for a quick scenic fix.
5. Helicopter Ride in Smoky Mountain Sevierville Quick Hop
At just $58 for 4-7 minutes, this quick flight is perfect for first-time helicopter riders or those with limited time. It’s an adrenaline shot, covering around 10 miles of Sevierville and surrounding sights.
You’ll get an exhilarating view of Sevierville’s downtown, the nearby Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge Airport, and the busy fairgrounds. The short duration makes it a great introduction to helicopter flying, with the opportunity to see key local landmarks in a fun, fast-paced ride.
Reviews are positive, noting the friendly staff and the thrill of seeing the area from above. It’s best suited for those who want a taste of helicopter flying without a hefty time commitment or for those celebrating a special occasion.
Bottom Line: An energetic, short flight ideal for thrill-seekers and first-timers wanting a quick but memorable experience.
6. Helicopter Ride in Smoky Mountain Sevierville Intro Flight
Priced at $55 for 1-2 minutes, this is the shortest tour on the list—perfect for a quick adrenaline rush. It’s an express ride that takes you over Soaky Water Park, giving you an aerial view of the slides, pools, and surrounding mountains.
This tour is less about sightseeing and more about the thrill of flying. It’s great if you want a quick, fun experience that can fit into a busy schedule or be a special surprise.
With only one review, which is positive, it’s a good option for those seeking a brief taste of helicopter flying with minimal fuss.
Bottom Line: The most compact tour, offering a quick thrill and a fun way to see Sevierville from above.
7. Pigeon Forge: Wears Valley Helicopter Tour
This 18-minute, approximately $158 tour takes you over the scenic Wears Valley, covering Pine Mountain, Cove Mountain, Waldens Creek, and Bluff Mountain. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a detailed look at some of the most picturesque parts of Sevierville and Pigeon Forge.
The review notes it’s “worth it,” especially for those who value the experience enough to pay a bit more. The focus on Wears Valley and the surrounding wilderness makes it a favorite for outdoor lovers. The full safety briefing and professional pilots ensure a secure experience.
It’s best suited for those wanting to explore specific mountain areas with plenty of time to appreciate the landscape.
Bottom Line: A scenic, mid-length tour focused on Wears Valley, perfect for mountain and wilderness enthusiasts.
8. Sevierville: Smoky Mountain Helicopter Tour
Pricing between $50 and a flexible 5-25 minute duration, this tour offers a customizable experience with views of Douglas Lake, Clingmans Dome, and the Pigeon Forge Strip.
It’s a flexible option for travelers seeking varied scenery within a shorter or longer flight, depending on availability. Reviewers mention the comfort of the helicopter and the spectacular views, including the waters of Douglas Lake and the lively tourist areas.
Ideal for those who want a tailored experience and are comfortable with variable flight lengths. The tour provides a good overview of the region’s best sights from above.
Bottom Line: A versatile tour for flexible schedules, offering key sights like Clingmans Dome and the Pigeon Forge Strip.
How to Choose Your Helicopter Tour in Sevierville
When selecting a helicopter tour, consider your budget, time availability, and specific interests. If you’re short on time but still want a taste of the mountains, the Intro Flight or Quick Hop are perfect. For a longer, more in-depth experience, the Great Smoky Mountain Tour provides extensive views of multiple landmarks.
Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the shorter or introductory options, while adventure seekers should consider the Wears Valley or Douglas Lake tours for their broader scope.
Booking early during peak seasons helps ensure availability, especially for popular options like the Smoky Mountain Valley Adventure. Keep in mind that some tours include narration and safety briefings, adding value to your experience.
Final Thoughts
Sevierville’s helicopter tours offer a fantastic way to see the diverse landscapes of the Smoky Mountains—from vast lakes to bustling tourist townscapes. If you’re after a quick thrill, the Intro Flight or Quick Hop might suit you best. For a more comprehensive experience, the Great Smoky Mountain Tour offers an unforgettable overview of the region’s highlights.
Travelers with limited time or seeking a special occasion should book early, as these tours tend to fill up fast during peak seasons. Whether you want a brief introduction or a full aerial expedition, Sevierville’s helicopter adventures are a worthwhile addition to your Tennessee trip.