Quick Verdict

If you want a dramatic, stress‑free way to see the Great Smoky Mountains from a perspective most visitors never get, the Great Smoky Mountain Helicopters Tour Review delivers. You’ll get sweeping aerial views of iconic peaks like Clingmans Dome and Mount LeConte, cross ridgelines and deep hollows, and fly over serene lakes — all while flying with a long‑established helicopter team now operating as MyFlight Tours. The trip is family‑friendly, photo‑ready, and built for memorable moments, whether it’s a special‑occasion surprise or your first time in a helicopter.

What the Tour Is (and What It Isn’t)

What it is

• A signature 50‑mile aerial loop over the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
• A curated sightseeing flight that highlights Clingmans Dome, Mount LeConte, the park’s ridgelines, valleys, and scenic lakes.
• An experience run from a newly renovated heliport in Sevierville, with a modern lobby and VR pre‑flight preview.
• A product offered by the region’s long‑running helicopter team (flying the Smokies since 1964) under MyFlight’s customer‑centered operation.

What it isn’t

• A hiking tour or a way to land inside the national park for an extended stay.
• An adrenaline‑only ride focused on aerobatics — it’s paced for sightseeing and photography.
• A budget helicopter experience; it’s priced as a premium scenic tour (around $250 per person).

Detailed Breakdown: Quick Facts Table

Item	Details
Product name	Smoky Mountain Helicopters Great Smoky Mountain Tour
Route length	~50 miles (comprehensive loop over the Smokies)
Main highlights	Clingmans Dome, Mount LeConte, ridgelines, valleys, glassy lakes
Departure	MyFlight Tours heliport, 1101 Winfield Dunn Parkway, Sevierville
Price	Approximately $250 per person (subject to seasonal variation)
Best for	First‑time flyers, nature lovers, photographers, couples, families, special occasions
Facility extras	Renovated heliport with contemporary lobby, VR pre‑flight preview
Operator history	Long‑running regional helicopter team (operating in the Smokies since 1964)
Reviews	Great Smoky Mountain Tour: 5‑star passenger rating; MyFlight: 4.9/5 across hundreds of Google reviews
Accessibility	Family‑friendly; check MyFlight for wheelchair/assistance options

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why You’ll Consider Booking

Epic scenery from a unique perspective

When you climb into the helicopter, you’ll immediately notice the difference between road‑level viewpoints and aerial views. From above, the park’s layered ridgelines, the sweep of valleys, and the contours of lakes look like a living map. Clingmans Dome and Mount LeConte are unmistakable landmarks, and seeing them from the air will change how you remember the Smokies.

A long, trusted local operation

You’ll be flying with a crew that knows the mountain weather, the best flight paths, and how to prioritize passenger comfort. The team flying the Smokies since 1964 is now operating with MyFlight’s modern systems and customer focus. That continuity of local knowledge combined with contemporary customer experience is a strong point.

Modern facility, extra touches

You’ll depart from a renovated heliport in Sevierville with a contemporary lobby. The VR pre‑flight preview is a useful and fun way to mentally prepare for what you’ll see. It helps visualize the route and gives you a sense of where to point your camera.

High customer satisfaction

If ratings matter to you, both the specific Great Smoky Mountain Tour and MyFlight’s broader operation score extremely well. That consistency in reviews speaks to reliable service, courteous crews, and strong attention to safety and guest experience.

Booking, Pricing, and Practical Logistics

Booking process

• Reserve online through MyFlight Tours’ booking portal, or call to check availability and seasonal flight times.
• Popular time slots fill quickly, especially during peak leaf season and summer weekends. If your dates are flexible, look at weekday morning slots for smaller crowds and calmer air.

Price and what’s included

• The listed price is approximately $250 per person. Confirm the current price at booking, as seasonal demand or special promotions can change the rate.
• The price typically includes the guided aerial tour, pre‑flight briefing, headphones for communication, and any VR preview at the heliport.
• Additional costs may arise from transportation to the heliport, parking (usually available), or optional photo/video packages if offered.

How long you should plan for

• The flight loop itself covers about 50 miles and usually lasts a short, concentrated period of airborne time (confirm specific flight minutes when booking).
• Allow 60–90 minutes total for the full experience, including check‑in, safety briefing, VR preview, boarding, and post‑flight debrief or photos.

Cancellation & rescheduling

• Weather can be the primary reason for rescheduling. Helicopter companies prioritize safety and will cancel or postpone flights if conditions aren’t suitable.
• Check MyFlight’s specific cancellation policy at booking for refund windows and any reschedule fees. If weather cancels, most operators will offer a full refund or an easy reschedule.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Safety, Comfort, and What to Expect During the Flight

Safety standards

• You’ll fly with certified pilots and an operation that has multiple decades of regional experience. MyFlight’s modernized operation emphasizes customer safety and adherence to aviation regulations.
• Pilots will conduct a briefing before takeoff covering seat belts, emergency procedures, headphone use, and basic etiquette (keeping doors closed if the model requires it, not leaning or shifting during flight, etc.).

Comfort factors

• The helicopters used for sightseeing are generally optimized for visibility. You’ll have large windows, and seating arrangements are designed to give most passengers a view.
• Headset communication keeps you connected with the pilot and tour narration, making it easy to hear key points during the flight.

Motion considerations

• If you’re prone to motion sickness, plan accordingly. Choose a morning flight when air tends to be smoother, have a light meal beforehand, and consider over‑the‑counter remedies if you use them.
• The flight is focused on scenic viewing rather than aerobatics, so motion will be sightseeing‑oriented and typically gentle.

Photography and Videography Tips

Gear to bring

• A mid‑range telephoto zoom (e.g., 70–200mm) is a great option if you want close crops of peaks and lakes.
• A wide‑angle lens (e.g., 24mm or wider) lets you capture sweeping landscapes and the helicopter cabin framing for context shots.
• Secure straps or wrist tethers are recommended to prevent gear from slipping in the cabin.

Camera settings

• Use a fast shutter speed (1/500s or faster) to counteract vibration and movement.
• Set a moderate to high ISO as needed depending on light; modern cameras handle higher ISO very well.
• Shoot in continuous burst mode during critical moments (approaching a ridge or lake) and in RAW for maximum editing flexibility.

Window considerations

• Keep lenses close to the window to minimize reflection. If the window is open or removes, follow crew instructions carefully; do not attempt to open windows yourself.
• Angle your body for the best view rather than relying solely on your seat position. Courtesy to other passengers matters — coordinate with the crew if you want to switch sides for a few minutes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Best Time of Year and When to Go

Fall foliage

• Leaf season is peak demand. Colors and lighting create exceptional aerial photos, but flights sell out quickly and prices may be higher. If you want fall color, plan well in advance and choose mid‑day flights for brighter light.

Spring wildflowers and summer green

• Spring shows the rebirth of greenery and early blooms in lower valleys. Summer provides full foliage and typically stable weather; early morning flights reduce thermal activity and can be calmer.

Winter clarity

• Winter offers dramatic views and fewer crowds. Clear cold days deliver excellent visibility and crisp photographs, but dress warmly for the heliport wait, and verify any winter season schedule changes.

Accessibility and Family Considerations

Families and kids

• The tour is family‑friendly and memorable for kids who enjoy aerial experiences. Check minimum age or weight limits at booking; many operators have relaxed family policies but ask ahead for infant seating or booster needs.
• Safety briefings typically include instructions specific to children and family seating arrangements.

Accessibility

• If you or someone in your party requires mobility assistance, contact MyFlight in advance. Modern heliports and operators often accommodate guests with limited mobility, but specific aircraft limitations can apply.
• Allow extra time at check‑in for any special assistance requests.

 

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Unforgettable aerial perspective of the Great Smoky Mountains — sights you can’t get from the highway.
• Operated by a team with deep local experience and MyFlight’s customer service focus.
• Contemporary heliport with a VR preview adds excitement and preparation.
• High customer satisfaction and strong review scores.
• Great for photography, proposals, anniversaries, and family memories.

Cons

• Premium price point (around $250 per person) compared with some ground tours.
• Weather‑dependent scheduling; cancellations are sometimes inevitable.
• Limited airborne time compared to a multi‑day ground itinerary; it’s a focused aerial experience rather than a long tour.
• Potential motion sickness for sensitive passengers.

How It Compares to Alternatives

Helicopter vs. Fixed‑wing tours

• Helicopters provide lower altitude, more flexible routing, and the option to circle specific features — ideal for photography and intimate views.
• Fixed‑wing tours can cover more ground in some cases, but usually at higher altitude with less ability to hover or maneuver for dramatic angles.

Helicopter vs. scenic drives and overlooks

• Roadside overlooks give you time on the ground, hiking options, and a slower pace. The helicopter offers a concentrated perspective that instantly reveals the park’s scale and patterns.
• If you want both, you can pair the helicopter tour with a ground hike or overlook visit for a comprehensive experience.

 

Sample Itinerary (What You’ll Do)

• Arrival and check‑in at the MyFlight Tours heliport in Sevierville. Allow 30–45 minutes before flight time.
• VR pre‑flight preview and safety briefing in the renovated lobby area.
• Board the helicopter, settle in with headsets, and receive a short orientation.
• Takeoff and the 50‑mile aerial loop: approach Clingmans Dome, sweep past Mount LeConte, fly parallel to ridgelines, cross valleys, and hover briefly over scenic lakes for photo opportunities (pilot permitting).
• Return to the heliport, brief post‑flight notes, and time for photos and any optional purchases.

What to Bring (Practical Packing List)

• Valid photo ID for check‑in.
• Camera, lenses, and secure straps or tethers.
• Sunglasses and a light jacket (helicopter cabins can feel cooler than ground level).
• Comfortable shoes and a hat for heliport wait.
• Any motion sickness remedies you typically use.
• Phone and portable battery if you want extra power for photos and videos.

Special Occasions and Group Experiences

Proposals and anniversaries

• If you plan a proposal, tell the booking team. They can often help coordinate timing and may provide suggestions for the most picturesque segment of the route.
• Small surprise touches (flowers, a post‑flight champagne toast at a nearby venue) make the moment more intimate.

Family milestones and photography sessions

• The tour works well for family reunions and milestone celebrations. Coordinate passenger seating and inform the crew of special needs.
• Photographers and content creators will find the aerial perspective powerful for storytelling and portfolio work.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Flight

• Book a morning or stable weather slot for the calmest air and best lighting.
• Choose a seat that gives you the best view of your priorities — mention preferences at check‑in (e.g., left or right side) and the team will typically accommodate if possible.
• Bring multiple memory cards and spare batteries for uninterrupted shooting.
• Pay attention during the pilot narrative; they’ll point out features you might otherwise miss.
• Be courteous to fellow passengers when switching sides for photos.

FAQ

How long is the flight?

The full route is a 50‑mile loop. Total airborne time varies; confirm exact flight minutes when you book. Plan for 60–90 minutes door‑to‑door including check‑in and briefings.

What’s the exact price?

Approximately $159 per person. Prices can vary by season and availability. Confirm current pricing at booking.

Where do flights depart from?

MyFlight Tours heliport, 1101 Winfield Dunn Parkway, Sevierville.

Are flights safe?

Yes. You’ll fly with experienced, certified pilots from a long‑running regional team combined with MyFlight’s modernized operations. Standard aviation safety protocols and pre‑flight briefings apply.

Can I bring a camera?

Absolutely. Bring a camera, lenses, and secure straps. Follow crew guidance about window use and safety.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Flights are weather‑dependent. If a flight is canceled for safety, MyFlight generally offers a refund or rescheduling option. Check the operator’s cancellation policy when booking.

Is it good for kids?

Yes, the tour is family‑friendly. Check minimum age, seating, and safety requirements before booking.

Sample Review Scenarios (How Different Passengers May Experience the Tour)

First‑time helicopter passenger

You’ll likely find the experience thrilling but comfortable. The helicopter’s steady flight and pilot narration make it easy to appreciate the views without feeling overwhelmed. The VR preview helps you know what to expect, reducing any first‑time nerves.

Photographer

You’ll appreciate the flexibility to photograph exposed ridgelines and lake reflections from angles impossible on the ground. Bring multiple lenses and be ready to adapt settings quickly as lighting changes during the loop.

Family group

Kids will enjoy the aerial novelty, and adults will appreciate the informational narration and safety focus. The heliport’s lobby and VR preview keep the pre‑flight experience engaging for all ages.

Romantic couple

A helicopter tour adds cinematic scale to a proposal or anniversary. Plan ahead with the crew for any special requests and pick a scenic segment that aligns with golden hour lighting if possible.

Environmental Considerations

• Helicopter flights have a larger environmental footprint than car travel. If sustainability is important to you, consider this factor when choosing to fly.
• You can offset your impact with mindful choices: combine the flight with minimal vehicle travel, and inquire whether MyFlight participates in any environmental programs or community efforts.

Final Recommendations and Booking Advice

• Reserve early, especially for peak seasonal windows like fall color and summer weekends.
• Pick morning flights for smoother air and better photographic conditions.
• Notify MyFlight of any mobility needs, special occasions, or seating preferences during booking so they can prepare.
• Combine the aerial tour with ground activities (short hikes, overlooks, dinner in town) to create a fuller Smokies itinerary.

Contact and Next Steps

• Book online through MyFlight Tours or call to check availability and seasonal flight times. The MyFlight team can answer questions about current pricing, weather policies, seating, and any group or special‑occasion planning.

Final Thoughts

The Great Smoky Mountain Helicopters Tour gives you a rare vantage point on one of America’s most visited national parks. You’ll likely leave with a new sense of the park’s geography, powerful photographs, and a memorable story to tell. Whether you’re celebrating, photographing, or simply checking off a bucket‑list flight, this tour pairs long regional experience with modern customer care and a facility designed to start the experience on the right note. Book with a clear window on timing, bring the right gear, and prepare for an aerial perspective you’ll remember for years.