Ridge Runner Smoky Mountain Helicopter Tour

Sevierville , United States

Ridge Runner Smoky Mountain Helicopter Tour

Active

(147 reviews)

15m - 18m

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Our Ridge Runner tour is an exciting flyover of the Chilhowee Mountain Range and Bluff Mountain. This scenic helicopter tour starts with a bird’s eye view of downtown Sevierville and the Tennessee Valley. But the mountains, ridges and valleys are the highlights of this flight.

Available options

Ridge Runner Tour

What's included

Professional Guide/Pilot

15-18 minute/30-mile Helicopter Tour with Views of the Chilhowee Mountain Range

Detailed itinerary

The Ridge Runner is a definite crowd pleaser! Our Ridge Runner tour is a very exciting flight over the Chilhowee Mountain Range and Bluff Mountain. The flight starts with a birds eye view of downtown Sevierville and the Tennessee Valley. As the flight progresses you will be traveling over the foothills of the Smoky Mountains and the outskirts of Pigeon Forge and Waldens Creek. With excellent views of the Smoky Mountain National Park you round the back side of Bluff Mountain over 6,000 acres of undeveloped land. While flying low over the tree tops you cross over the top of Bluff mountain where views go from 100 feet to 80 miles in the blink of an eye, it truly is a sight to see! As you head back in you will follow the sheer glacier carved rock cliff side of Bluff Mountain and Sugarloaf Mountain before heading over the beautiful rolling foothills back to the Scenic Heliport! This flight is 30 miles and averages 15 minutes.

What's not included

Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

12 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

135 reviews

5★

129

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

There is a 2-person minimum to book

Max per-passenger seat weight limit is 300 lbs. Passengers with bodyweights exceeding 300 lbs. can still be accommodated in our Jet or Long Ranger aircraft. An additional fee may apply, payable directly to Scenic Helicopter Tours on the day of the tour.

All passengers must be weighed at check-in per FAA regulations and in the interest of passenger safety. Only the flight crew will have access to passenger weights, and all information will be kept confidential.

About Sevierville

Sevierville, Tennessee, is a charming city nestled at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Known as 'The Gateway to the Smokies,' it offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and Southern hospitality. The city is also famous as the hometown of Dolly Parton, featuring attractions like Dollywood and the Dolly Parton's Chasing Rainbows Museum.

Top Attractions

Dollywood

Dollywood is a popular theme park owned by Dolly Parton, featuring thrilling rides, live entertainment, and Southern charm.

Entertainment/Amusement Park Full day Expensive (varies by season and ticket type)

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The most visited national park in the U.S., offering stunning mountain landscapes, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing.

Nature Half day to multiple days Free (no entrance fee)

Dolly Parton's Chasing Rainbows Museum

A museum dedicated to the life and career of Dolly Parton, featuring memorabilia, costumes, and interactive exhibits.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Moderate (varies by age and ticket type)

Sevierville Convention Center

A multi-purpose venue hosting events, concerts, and festivals throughout the year.

Cultural/Entertainment Varies by event Varies by event

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fried Chicken

Crispy, golden-fried chicken, often served with mashed potatoes and gravy.

Main Course Not vegetarian or vegan

Biscuits and Gravy

Fluffy biscuits smothered in savory sausage gravy.

Breakfast Can be made vegetarian

Pimento Cheese

A creamy, spicy spread made with cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos.

Snack/Appetizer Contains dairy and mayonnaise

Popular Activities

Hiking Whitewater rafting Zip-lining Spa treatments Scenic drives Picnicking Visiting museums Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the peak tourist season, offering warm weather and full access to outdoor activities. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is particularly popular during this time.

15°C to 32°C 59°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (ET) (GMT-5:00)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Sevierville is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help
• Avoid leaving belongings unattended

Getting there

By air

McGhee Tyson Airport • 35 miles (56 km) from Sevierville
Knoxville Airport • 30 miles (48 km) from Sevierville

By bus

Greyhound Bus Station in Knoxville

Getting around

Public transport

The local bus service is limited and primarily serves residents. Tourists may find it inconvenient for getting around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Downtown Sevierville Pigeon Forge Gatlinburg

Day trips

Gatlinburg

20 miles (32 km) • Half day to full day

A mountain town known for its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and a variety of attractions.

Cherokee National Forest

30 miles (48 km) • Full day

A vast forest offering hiking, camping, and scenic drives.

Cades Cove

25 miles (40 km) • Half day to full day

A picturesque valley in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with historic cabins and wildlife.

Festivals

Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales • August Sevierville Wine & Jazz Festival • September

Pro tips

Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views.
Book tickets for popular attractions like Dollywood in advance to avoid long lines.
Explore the local artisan shops and galleries for unique souvenirs and gifts.
Try local Southern cuisine, including fried chicken, biscuits and gravy, and pancakes.
Pack layers and comfortable shoes for hiking and outdoor activities.