Scenic Helicopter Tours
Authorized for air tours over the national park · Flights of 50 to 110 miles from the Sevierville heliport
Scenic Helicopter Tours gives you a bird's-eye view of the Great Smoky Mountains, flying from its heliport in Sevierville over Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and the national park. The family-owned company has been flying over the Smokies since 1972, and its flights are approved by the FAA and the National Park Service.
The heliport is on Winfield Dunn Parkway in Sevierville, an easy drive from Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Tours range from quick introductory flights to longer adventures deep over the mountains, so there's an option for nearly every group and budget.
What you'll see
The towns below
Shorter flights take in Sevierville, Pigeon Forge and the surrounding foothills, with the Parkway, the attractions and the mountains rising behind them all in one view.
The national park
Longer tours head toward Mount LeConte and the high peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with views of places like Clingmans Dome, Sugarlands Valley, Elkmont and Tremont. Some routes return over Townsend and the foothills.
Seasonal color
Every season looks different from the air, from spring green to fall color across the ridgelines and frosty peaks in winter.
Tour options
Short scenic flights
Introductory flights are a great first helicopter ride and a fun surprise for kids and first-time flyers.
National park tours
For the full Smoky Mountain experience, choose a longer tour that flies over the park's highest peaks and valleys.
Special occasions
Scenic Helicopter Tours also offers romance experiences, gender reveal flights and holiday packages, along with private charters. It's a memorable way to mark a proposal, anniversary or birthday.
Who it's for
First-time flyers
Short flights are an easy way to try a helicopter ride without committing to a long tour.
Couples
A flight over the mountains makes a standout date or proposal. Planning a romantic trip? Browse our honeymoon cabins.
Photographers and view seekers
Nothing beats the aerial perspective of the Smokies' layered ridgelines. Bring your camera.
Tips for your visit
Book ahead
Reserve online, especially during summer, fall color season and holidays, when flights fill up.
Watch the weather
Clear days give the best views. Flights depend on the weather, so keep your plans flexible and check with the company if conditions look iffy.
Fly in the morning or late afternoon
Softer light makes for great photos and dramatic shadows across the ridges.
Make a day of it
Aviation fans can pair a flight with the Tennessee Museum of Aviation, also in Sevierville. Find more nearby fun in our guide to Sevierville attractions.
Plan your visit
Frequently asked questions
Where do Scenic Helicopter Tours depart from?
From the company's heliport at 1949 Winfield Dunn Parkway in Sevierville, a short drive from Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.
How long has the company been flying?
Scenic Helicopter Tours has been flying over the Great Smoky Mountains since 1972 and is family owned and operated.
Do the tours fly over the national park?
Yes. Longer tours fly over the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including views of Mount LeConte and Clingmans Dome. Flights are FAA and National Park Service approved.
Do I need a reservation?
Booking online is the easiest way to lock in a time, especially during busy seasons.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Flights depend on safe weather conditions. Contact the company for its current weather and rescheduling policy.
After seeing the Smokies from above, come home to a view of your own in one of our cabins with mountain views or family cabins. Book direct to get our Stay & Play Pass with free attraction tickets for every paid night.