SEVIERVILLE SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Above the Smokies: A 65‑Mile Helicopter Sweep from Sevierville
A roughly 65‑mile aerial sightseeing flight from Sevierville that maps the high country of the Great Smoky Mountains and the valleys below.
Above the Smokies: A 65‑Mile Helicopter Sweep from Sevierville.
Adventure brief
Above the Smokies: A 65‑Mile Helicopter Sweep from Sevierville
Want to see more of the heart of the Smokies? The Scenic Special is a 65‑mile helicopter sightseeing flight out of Sevierville that takes you over Sevierville, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg toward Mount LeConte and the higher elevations of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, then returns with views of Townsend, Round Top, Walland Gap, Chilhowee Mountain and the front side of Bluff Mountain; along the way the pilot provides interpretive information about the park and the region’s history.
The Mountain Region, renowned for its rugged peaks and expansive vistas, offers a breathtaking backdrop for Scenic Special’s helicopter tours. Located at the doorstep of towering cliffs, lush valleys, and sweeping ridgelines, this adventure provides a unique perspective seldom seen from the ground. As your chopper ascends, the landscape unfolds like a living map—geological layers revealing ancient rock formations, dense forests stretching to the horizon, and rivers carving their way through the terrain. This company has carved out a reputation for delivering high-adrenaline flights that are both safe and visually stunning. The pilots are seasoned experts, guiding visitors through a window into the area’s natural majesty while sharing insights into local geology and history. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving an awe-inspiring experience, Scenic Special’s helicopter tours stand out for their scenic routes that highlight the region’s most iconic features, including jagged peaks, expansive canyons, and shimmering lakes. The tours are customizable, ranging from short, exhilarating rides to extended scenic journeys that encompass multiple landmarks. As a cornerstone of the local outdoor activities scene, Scenic Special offers an experience that combines adventure with education, immersing visitors in a landscape that has shaped local legends and geological history. Flights typically last around 30 to 60 minutes, making this a perfect highlight for a day trip or part of a larger outdoor adventure itinerary. With safety preeminent, this business is well-equipped and fully licensed, ensuring peace of mind along with spectacular views. Their passion for the land and commitment to excellence makes Scenic Special a standout choice for airborne exploration in the region.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic
Major stops and vantage points on the Scenic Special, listed in rough order.
Sevierville → Pigeon Forge → Gatlinburg
Departure lifts out of Sevierville and provides aerial views of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg as the flight proceeds toward the national park.
Mount LeConte and Clingmans Dome corridor
The flight takes in higher elevations of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with views of Mount LeConte and Clingmans Dome.
Sugarlands Valley, Elkmont and Tremont
Aerial views of Sugarlands Valley and the historic Elkmont and Tremont areas, noted for their logging legacy within the park.
Townsend → Round Top → Walland Gap → Chilhowee → Bluff Mountain
Return leg highlights include Townsend, Round Top and Walland Gap, views of Chilhowee Mountain and the front side of Bluff Mountain.
The provided information lists the planned route and vantage points; operator specifics on route adjustments, participant limits or medical/age restrictions were not provided and should be confirmed with Scenic Helicopter Tours prior to booking.
What the day feels like
What the flight feels like
This is an aerial sightseeing experience: the aircraft departs Sevierville and passes over the clustered towns of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg en route to Mount LeConte, offering uninterrupted views of the Great Smoky Mountains’ high country and the valleys below while your pilot narrates points of interest; on the return leg you pass over Townsend and a sequence of ridges and gaps including Round Top, Walland Gap and Chilhowee Mountain before crossing the front side of Bluff Mountain.
THE VISTAS
Mount LeConte and Clingmans Dome from Above
The flight climbs toward the higher elevations of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, giving expansive aerial perspectives on features including Mount LeConte and Clingmans Dome.
THE HISTORY
Sugarlands Valley, Elkmont and Tremont
The route showcases the Sugarlands Valley and historic sites at Elkmont and Tremont, areas noted for their logging history and park-related heritage.
THE ROUTE
Sevierville Outbound; Townsend Return
The itinerary begins over Sevierville, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, moves toward the park’s higher elevations, and returns with views of Townsend, Round Top, Walland Gap, Chilhowee Mountain and the front side of Bluff Mountain.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this flight suits — and what the provided data does (and does not) say about suitability.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The listed rate for the flight is $600.
The tour covers approximately 60–70 miles (listed at roughly 65 miles).
Includes Gatlinburg and Wears Valley tour points of interest, National Park viewpoints, Sugarlands Visitor Center and Little River, among others mentioned in the route.
Operated by Scenic Helicopter Tours out of Sevierville, Tennessee.
The provided materials do not include specific gear, clothing or packing requirements—confirm with the operator before departure.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Scenic Special flight?
The flight covers approximately 60–70 miles (about 65 miles).
How much does the flight cost?
The listed rate for the flight is $600.
What areas and landmarks does the tour include?
The tour flies over Sevierville, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg toward Mount LeConte and Clingmans Dome, showcases Sugarlands Valley, Elkmont and Tremont, and returns with views of Townsend, Round Top, Walland Gap, Chilhowee Mountain and the front side of Bluff Mountain; it also lists Gatlinburg, Wears Valley and National Park points of interest as included.
Who operates the Scenic Special?
The trip is operated by Scenic Helicopter Tours out of Sevierville, Tennessee.
Will the pilot provide commentary during the flight?
Yes—the provided description notes that your knowledgeable adventure pilot will share a broad array of information about the national park during the flight.
Does this flight include the Sugarlands Visitor Center and Little River?
Yes—the additional points of interest listed include the Sugarlands Visitor Center and Little River.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-11-04T14:14:10.966Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.