Combine breathtaking helicopter views with high-speed jet boat rides on the French Broad River with Sky River Rush. Discover why this duo is a must-try for thrill-seekers visiting East Tennessee!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Guests should have basic mobility for boarding and safety briefings. No advanced fitness required.
Wildlife
History
The French Broad River has been a vital corridor for trade and travel since the 18th century, shaping the region's development.
Conservation
Sky River Rush supports local conservation efforts by promoting eco-friendly tourism and adhering to river and airspace safety standards.
Smoky Mountain Jet Boat
Combine breathtaking helicopter views with high-speed jet boat rides on the French Broad River with Sky River Rush. Discover why this duo is a must-try for thrill-seekers visiting East Tennessee!
Smoky Mountain Jet Boat operates guided jet boat tours on the French Broad River out of Sevierville, Tennessee. The company offers five distinct experiences that range from wildlife-focused eco-tours to high-energy sightseeing trips, including the Dam Tour, Sky River Rush air-and-water combo, Island Pointe (Seven Islands) Tour, The Grand Tour, and the Seven Islands State Birding Park Tour.
Tours visit notable local landmarks such as Douglas Dam — a 201-foot-high engineering structure — and travel along scenic stretches of the French Broad River with views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Several tours emphasize wildlife observation, including opportunities to spot birds and river animals; tour descriptions reference nearly 200 bird species in the Seven Islands area.
Smoky Mountain Jet Boat partners with Scenic Helicopter Tours for the Sky River Rush combo to offer both aerial and river-based perspectives of East Tennessee landscapes. Trip lengths vary, with eco and state park tours around 45–50 minutes and The Grand Tour combining multiple routes into a longer 1 hour 20-minute excursion.
Information about routes, trip names, and highlights is provided to help visitors select the right experience. The company’s tours appeal to nature lovers, birders, history enthusiasts, and adventure seekers visiting Sevierville and the surrounding counties. Booking and availability details are handled through the business’s reservation channels and featured listings on The Adventure Collective.
Base Location
Sevierville, TN
On the French Broad River
Scenic Views
Great Smoky Mountains
Riverfront mountain vistas
Tour Durations
45–80 minutes
From quick trips to grand tour
Wildlife Viewing
Nearly 200 bird species
Rich birding and river wildlife
Choose a tour, confirm availability, and secure seats for an unforgettable French Broad River adventure.
Wear weather-appropriate clothing
Dress in quick-drying, layered clothing suitable for both flying and water activities.
Secure loose items
Hold onto your cameras and sunglasses securely during the boat ride to prevent loss.
Book in advance
These popular combo tours fill quickly, so reserve your spot early.
Bring sun protection
Use sunscreen and wear a hat to stay comfortable during outdoor exposures.
Sunglasses
Protects your eyes from glare during the boat ride and sunny helicopter flight.
summer
Waterproof camera or phone case
Keeps your devices safe from water spray and humidity.
summer
Light layered clothing
Comfortable, quick-drying layers suitable for changing temps.
spring;summer;fall
Sun hat
Provides extra sun protection during outdoor segments.
summer