How long is the helicopter tour?

The Grand Tour lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes, covering about 90 miles of scenic flight over the Smoky Mountains.

Are there age or health restrictions?

This is an easy activity suitable for most ages and fitness levels; however, check with the provider if you have health concerns or mobility issues.

What wildlife can we expect to see?

Common sightings include black bears, deer, wild turkeys, and occasionally eagles soaring above the forests and valleys.

Can I bring a backpack or personal items?

Small personal items are allowed; large bags should be left behind to maximize cabin space and comfort.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Flights may be delayed, rescheduled, or canceled for safety. Operators will work with guests to find alternative times or provide refunds.

Is photo or video equipment allowed onboard?

Yes, photography and video recording are encouraged to capture the stunning views during the flight.

Soar Over the Great Smoky Mountains: The Grand Tour Helicopter Adventure | Air Activities | Sightseeing Tour

Experience the Great Smoky Mountains like never before with The Grand Tour, a 90-mile helicopter journey launching from Sevierville, Tennessee. This aerial adventure offers a rare perspective on one of America’s most treasured national parks, revealing an expansive view of iconic towns such as Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg before gliding over the park’s deep valleys and mist-covered mountain ridges. The flight showcases sweeping panoramas of Cades Cove, a verdant valley renowned for its historical homesteads and abundant wildlife, including deer, black bears, and wild turkey. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the Tennessee-North Carolina border, is famed for its rich biodiversity and ancient mountains shrouded in haze. Established in 1934, it’s the most visited national park in the United States, but few get to appreciate its vastness from above. This helicopter tour unlocks vistas inaccessible by foot or car, highlighting the park’s dense hardwood forests, winding rivers, and unique geological formations carved over millions of years. Departing from 1949 Winfield Dunn Parkway in Sevierville, the tour-provider delivers an intimate, expertly guided flight experience. Pilots share in-flight insights about landmarks and natural history, making this more than just a scenic trip—it’s a chance to connect with the park’s ecology and legacy. The flight’s duration is ideal for travelers seeking a condensed adventure without the long hikes or crowded viewpoints. This tour is unmatched in the region because of its combination of convenience, educational value, and breathtaking views. It’s perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone eager to witness the Great Smokies’ changing seasons from a bird’s eye perspective. Whether you’re visiting in spring, summer, fall, or winter, the mountain vistas shift dramatically, offering everything from vibrant autumn foliage to snow-dusted peaks. For accommodations and staging, Sevierville serves as the perfect base with easy access, amenities, and Southern hospitality. The Grand Tour elevates the experience of this outdoor recreation hub, highlighting a part of the Smoky Mountains that remains hidden from typical road trips and hiking itineraries. It’s a unique opportunity to celebrate the region’s natural splendor safely and comfortably, creating lifelong memories on a sky-high exploration.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

30–45 minutes.

Fitness level

No physical exertion required; suitable for all fitness levels

Wildlife

Black bear
Wild turkey

History

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park was established in 1934 and remains the most visited national park in the U.S., preserving Appalachian natural and cultural heritage.

Conservation

The helicopter tour partners with local conservation efforts by limiting flights to protect sensitive wildlife habitats and minimize noise pollution.

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.

Base locationSevierville, Tennessee

Tours offered36+

Specialtyaerial-adventures

StewardshipLeave No Trace