Is there an age limit for gem mining?

Children of all ages can participate, but younger kids may need supervision; check specific age recommendations when booking.

Are the gems and fossils mined here of high quality?

While the activity is designed to be fun and educational, the stones are genuine and come from authentic deposits, making each find unique.

How long does a typical session last?

Most mining experiences last about 1 to 2 hours, depending on group size and interest.

Is there a place to sit and relax afterwards?

Yes, the site features a café where visitors can rest, enjoy a snack, or browse their treasures.

Do I get to keep what I find?

Yes, participants take home their personal collection of gems and fossils gathered during the activity.

What should I bring with me?

Wearing comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, sun protection, and a water bottle is recommended for a smooth experience.

Gem Mining with Scenic Helicopter Tours in Sevierville | Attraction | Workshop

Sevierville, Tennessee, sits at the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, renowned for its natural beauty and vibrant visitor scene. Among its hidden treasures is Scenic Helicopter Tours, a local company offering a hands-on gem and fossil mining experience that's perfect for families and curious adventurers alike. This activity takes you to a specially designed site where kids can sift through centuries-old rocks, searching for shimmering gems—amethysts, quartz, and other colorful stones—and fossils, guided by educational materials that bring the geology alive.

What makes Scenic Helicopter Tours’ gem mining standout is their dual water system that ensures crystal-clear panning—making it easier to spot those hidden sparkles. The process is tactile and engaging, giving participants an authentic sense of discovery right in the foothills of the Smokies. After the mining, visitors can unwind at the on-site café or browse their take-home bags filled with treasures gathered during the session.

This experience isn’t just about collecting pretty stones; it immerses guests in the region’s rich geological history. The site’s terrain offers a unique look at Tennessee’s ancient rock formations, and friendly guides share insights into how these treasures came to be. It’s a perfect way to bridge education and adventure, especially during vacation days or family outings.

Scenic Helicopter Tours’ gem mining adventure is a standout addition to Sevierville’s outdoor activities, drawing travelers seeking a memorable, hands-on experience in the Smokies. It’s an easy activity, suitable for all ages, and fits well within a day of sightseeing or outdoor exploration, making it a worthwhile stop for those wanting to connect more deeply with the area’s natural wonders.

About Scenic Helicopter Tours

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.