Take to the skies above Pisgah National Forest with the Epic Blue Ridge Explorer helicopter tour and discover breathtaking views of Looking Glass Rock and the Blue Ridge Parkway you can't get from the ground.
Take to the skies above Pisgah National Forest with the Epic Blue Ridge Explorer helicopter tour and discover breathtaking views of Looking Glass Rock and the Blue Ridge Parkway you can't get from the ground.
Book with Scenic Helicopter Tours
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Scenic Helicopter Tours · Fletcher, North Carolina
Soaring high above North Carolina’s Pisgah National Forest offers a rare chance to witness the Blue Ridge Mountains from a thrilling new perspective. The Epic Blue Ridge Explorer helicopter tour, operating out of Fletcher, NC, delivers sweeping aerial views of the region’s most iconic landmarks, including the renowned Looking Glass Rock. This granite monolith, famed for its sheer cliffs and unique exposure to sunlight, stands as an awe-inspiring centerpiece in the forest’s diverse landscape. Set along the nationally celebrated Blue Ridge Parkway, this tour covers lush valleys, winding mountain ridges, and cascading waterfalls, bringing the forest’s dynamic terrain into sharp focus from the sky.
Pisgah National Forest, established in 1916 as one of the first national forests in the eastern United States, spans over half a million acres of rugged wilderness, rich biodiversity, and numerous trail systems. The helicopter tour offers an unparalleled way to absorb its vastness and variety, an experience that hiking or driving alone rarely matches. You’ll track the winding Parkway’s serpent-like path as it carves through dense hardwoods and rhododendron thickets, catching glimpses of wildlife such as black bears and wild turkey below. The elevated vantage point also reveals layers of mountain ridges fading into the horizon—an iconic Southern Appalachian panorama.
What sets this adventure apart is the seamless blend of cutting-edge aviation and natural beauty, combined with knowledgeable pilots who share fascinating insights about the geology, flora, and history of the area. Fletcher’s airport serves as the perfect launch spot, combining convenience with access to one of the most scenically rich regions in the East. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoors enthusiast or a first-time visitor, this aerial journey unlocks a fresh appreciation for Pisgah’s scale and splendor.
The Epic Blue Ridge Explorer is particularly unique as it exposes travelers to places that are often inaccessible or overlooked on foot, allowing photographers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers to document and revel in a truly memorable landscape. This experience stands out as a distinctive way to explore the Asheville region’s outdoor offerings from above, making it a must-book for those wanting something extraordinary during their visit to western North Carolina. With every flight, the blend of natural wonder and thrilling adventure crafts an unforgettable story in the sky.
easy.
15–30 minutes.
No special fitness required; suitable for all ages able to sit in a helicopter cabin comfortably.
The flight lasts approximately 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the route and weather conditions.
Yes, tours operate throughout the year but availability may vary with weather.
Yes, for safety reasons there may be a maximum weight per passenger; confirm with the operator during booking.
Children are welcome as long as they can sit safely and follow safety instructions.
Bring a camera, dress in layers, and wear comfortable shoes; sunglasses are recommended on sunny days.
Yes, pilots provide informative commentary about the geology, wildlife, and history of Pisgah National Forest during flights.
Pisgah National Forest was one of the first national forests established in the eastern U.S., dating back to 1916.
The forest is managed to balance recreation with preservation, ensuring minimal environmental impact from air tours and other activities.
Scenic Helicopter Tours in Sevierville, Tennessee, operates a range of aerial and on-site experiences that showcase the Great Smoky Mountains and surrounding Sevier County. The company offers curated helicopter flights, themed night tours, seasonal Winterfest flights, and specialty excursions including gem mining and shooting packages. Signature trips include the Prison Break half-day tour to Brushy Mountain with lunch and moonshine tastings; the Deluxe Winterfest Tour at sunset; the Smoky Mountain Sampler over Sevierville, Gatlinburg, and the national park; romantic Scenic Flight & Romantic Valentine's Indoor Picnic to Swann's Plantation; Scenic River Ride along the French Broad River; and both Pigeon Forge and Winterfest Night Flights for illuminated skyline views. Two shooting options — Iron Mountain Shooting Excursion and Deluxe Iron Mountain Shooting Excursion — combine aerial access with sporting clays at Iron Mountain. The Gem Mining experience provides family-friendly panning with educational materials and a take-home bag. Scenic Helicopter Tours is featured on The Adventure Collective and presents a variety of flight lengths and routes to suit sightseeing, special occasions, and seasonal events. Reservations, itineraries, and trip details are available through the operator in Sevierville. The business emphasizes clear panning systems for gem mining and includes local food and beverage elements on select tours. Travelers seeking aerial views of Mount LeConte, Clingmans Dome, Douglas Lake, and the Winterfest lights can select from multiple curated flights that highlight regional landmarks and seasonal displays. Booking information and current availability are provided by Scenic Helicopter Tours through direct reservation channels in Sevierville today.
Book with Scenic Helicopter Tours