Pigeon Forge is known for its lively entertainment, charming mountain scenery, and family-friendly attractions. But for those wanting a truly memorable perspective of the region, helicopter flights are hard to beat. They offer a bird’s-eye view of the Smoky Mountains, lakes, and local towns that you simply can’t get from the ground. We particularly like the Ridge Runner Helicopter Tour for its exhilarating flight over Chilhowee Mountain, and the Smoky Mountain and Lake Helicopter Trip for its comprehensive sweeping vistas — both offering a fresh look at this stunning region. For a quick taste of the scenery, the French Broad River Helicopter Tour is a fantastic choice for a short, yet breathtaking experience. If you want to see Gatlinburg from above, the Gatlinburg Helicopter Tour offers a scenic route to Mount LeConte with a memorable view of the area’s highlights.
Here’s a quick overview of the tours on our list: from 4-minute river views to a 25-minute combined mountain and lake flight, each offers something unique. Whether you’re looking for a quick thrill or an in-depth aerial tour, the options below are worth considering.
1. Pigeon Forge: French Broad River Helicopter Tour
At number 1, the French Broad River Helicopter Tour scores an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars from 76 reviews. This tour lasts about 4 to 8 minutes, making it perfect if you’re short on time but still want spectacular views. The tour focuses on the flowing French Broad River, with two upgrade options — Lake View or Extended Lake — that add views of Douglas Lake and the Smoky Mountains in the distance. It’s an ideal choice for first-timers or those who want a quick taste of the region’s natural beauty. The experienced pilots provide a full safety briefing to ensure your peace of mind during this short, but vivid, adventure.
What makes this trip stand out is the affordability — at just $41 per person, it offers a great value for a memorable aerial perspective. The panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains are breathtaking, especially when the sun hits the peaks. It’s a comfortable way to start your trip or to see the region if time is limited.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a quick, scenic flight that provides a taste of the Smokies and surrounding lakes, this tour hits the sweet spot of affordability and stunning views.
2. Pigeon Forge: Ridge Runner Helicopter Tour
For around $126, the Ridge Runner Helicopter Tour is the most adventurous option on our list, lasting about 15 minutes. With a perfect 5-star review from 15 travelers, it’s clear this experience delivers on excitement and quality. The flight zips over the Chilhowee Mountain range, giving you a fast-paced, exhilarating look at the rugged ridges and lush canopy of the Smoky Mountains.
Pilots are seasoned professionals who provide in-flight commentary, pointing out highlights like Pigeon Forge and the surrounding foothills. This tour is especially well-suited for travelers wanting a quick but comprehensive view of the region’s mountainous terrain. The flight’s speed and altitude allow you to take in the scenery without feeling overwhelmed, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a bit of thrill with their sightseeing.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in a high-energy, scenic flight that covers Pigeon Forge’s natural surroundings with expert commentary, this tour offers high value and a memorable experience.
3. Pigeon Forge: Smoky Mountain and Lake Helicopter Trip
At 25 minutes and priced at $249 per person, the Smoky Mountain and Lake Helicopter Trip is the most comprehensive option on our list. This round-trip flight captures a wide sweep of the natural scenery, from French Broad River and Douglas Lake to Sevierville and Gatlinburg. During this journey, you’ll see Cove Mountain, Wears Valley, and English Mountain from high above, offering a thorough visual tour of the region’s diverse landscapes.
This tour is ideal for travelers eager to enjoy the full grandeur of the Smoky Mountains and surrounding lakes. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a longer, more in-depth aerial experience. The knowledgeable pilot provides a full safety briefing before takeoff, ensuring peace of mind. Many reviews note how the views of the mountains, lakes, and valleys are stunning and worth the investment.
While the price is higher, the amount of scenery covered makes it a great value for those wanting a memorable, all-encompassing view of the area’s natural beauty.
Bottom Line: For travelers wanting a detailed, scenic overview of the Pigeon Forge area with a focus on lakes and mountains, this tour provides excellent value and breathtaking vistas.
4. Pigeon Forge: Helicopter Tour of Gatlinburg
The Gatlinburg Helicopter Tour offers a 20-minute flight for $189 per person, making it a balanced choice for those seeking a scenic flyover of downtown Gatlinburg and the surrounding peaks. This tour provides a unique perspective on landmarks such as Dollywood, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, and the towering Mount LeConte.
Perfect for those who want to combine a cityscape overview with mountain views, this experience captures the essence of the Smokies’ urban and natural highlights. The pilot’s commentary points out notable sights, adding context to the aerial views. Several reviewers mention how stunning it is to see the area from above, especially the impressive scale of Mount LeConte.
This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a mix of city and mountain scenery in a single flight, especially those interested in Gatlinburg’s attractions from a new angle.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a scenic, city-to-mountain aerial view that includes Gatlinburg’s main sights, this tour balances length and price nicely.
How to Choose Your Helicopter Tour in Pigeon Forge
When selecting among these helicopter options, think about your priorities: budget, time, and what scenery excites you most. If you’re pressed for time but want a quick scenic glimpse, the French Broad River Helicopter Tour is a perfect pick. Want a more adrenaline-filled experience? The Ridge Runner Helicopter Tour delivers a fast-paced ride over mountain ridges. Looking for a well-rounded, in-depth view? The Smoky Mountain and Lake Helicopter Trip offers the most scenery and detail for the price.
Consider your fitness level and how much time you want to spend in the air. Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours like the Ridge Runner, which tend to fill up on weekends and during peak seasons. Also, check the weather forecast — cloudy or rainy days can impact visibility and flight safety.
Pigeon Forge offers a range of helicopter flights that turn a simple sightseeing trip into an unforgettable adventure. Whether you want a quick glimpse of the French Broad River or a comprehensive tour of the Smokies’ peaks and lakes, there’s an option for you. For a quick thrill or a detailed aerial tour, these experiences add a memorable highlight to any trip. To ensure the best experience, book early, clarify what’s included, and pick a tour that matches your sense of adventure and curiosity about this stunning region.