Smoky Mountain Helicopter Tour Review: Which Option is Best?

Thinking about seeing the Smoky Mountains from up above? A helicopter tour might be just the ticket! It’s almost a different way to check out this amazing area. But, the question becomes, which tour to choose? There’s a bunch to consider, from how long you’re in the air to just where you will fly. We’re going to go over some tours, so you can choose the one that fits your travel style, your budget, and what you are hoping to experience!

Why Choose a Helicopter Tour of the Smoky Mountains?

You know, walking or driving around the Smokies is cool, but imagine seeing it all from a helicopter! Is that a crazy experience or what? You can spot things you would just plain miss from the ground. Think about it: views that just stretch out forever. And not just that, is that wildlife, the mountain tops? Plus, is there a more thrilling way to sightsee? You should give it a try; you know what I mean?

Types of Helicopter Tours Available

You will find that there isn’t just one type of tour. There are all kinds! There are shorter trips, which might be just right if you’re a bit uneasy about flying. Longer tours? They take you deeper into the park. So, you get a chance to see more of it. You know, it really depends on your travel style and what you want to get out of it.

Short and Sweet: Quick Tours

These quick tours are kind of a great way to get a little taste of flying over the Smokies. That is what you get to see if you are short on time, or, perhaps you’re a bit unsure about longer flights? These tours generally last somewhere around 8 to 15 minutes, so it’s not like you’re going to have too much time to take off!

Extended Flights: The Grand Tour Experience

Alright, you have a bit more time and really would enjoy an immersive experience? Look at the longer tours. Lasting anywhere from, perhaps, 30 minutes to an hour. They give you the time to explore more remote parts of the Smoky Mountains. So that is great; you might get to see areas that most visitors don’t. The drawback is they are a little pricey, alright?

Specific Route Tours: Waterfalls, Lakes and Landmarks

Specific Route Tours: Want to see something very specific? So it sounds like a special route tour is for you! Waterfalls are very popular! Can you imagine seeing them from up high? Lakes are also great to fly over. These tours typically fly over popular spots. But you have to consider, this does change a little depending on who you’re flying with. Keep an eye on this when booking; you know what I mean?

What to Expect During Your Helicopter Tour

So, you might wonder, what happens from the moment you show up to when you land? Is that correct? I will talk you through it! Of course, it can depend a little bit on the company you chose. In general, it’s always wise to arrive a bit early.

Pre-Flight Briefing and Safety Procedures

The very first thing is just that, you will get a safety briefing. Is that alright? They will cover things you need to keep in mind while you’re in the helicopter, what to do, and what to certainly NOT do. It will all be done before you fly. If you have any concerns, that, in a way, is the time to ask questions. This ensures everybody has an amazing time.

In-Flight Experience: Sights and Commentary

The ride itself can be pretty fun! As a matter of fact, most flights have a pilot who will, kind of, talk you through what you’re seeing. This may range from the history, or the wildlife. Then too it’s about points of interest. So, it is almost like having a tour guide in the sky.

Post-Flight: Sharing Your Experience

You land. You’re probably buzzing from what you just saw! Maybe you share some thoughts with the pilot? You might pick up some photographs you took during the flight! Why not tell everyone you know about this? You had a great time!

Choosing the Right Tour Operator

Alright, the tour operators. They’re definitely not all alike. Do your homework so that you’re up in the air with someone you can rely on, correct? Start with looking up reviews. Do past customers have positive thoughts regarding safety, the pilot’s knowledge, and all that? Also, what’s included for the cost?

Safety Records and Certifications

Perhaps more than anything, verify the operator has the right certifications. Make sure their safety record is spotless. Is that what you expected to read? Don’t book if that isn’t the case! Don’t be afraid to call and just straight up ask all of those questions. So, too it’s important to check if the choppers themselves get regular upkeep and inspections. So, they have to ensure that things will remain okay.

Tour Options and Customization

Some companies will offer a range of ways to see the Smokies. Now you might ask “What do you mean?” Are there doors-off flights (they aren’t for everybody!)? Do they go to specific sites? You see, some operators might work with you to develop a flight, alright? So, too it’s important to think about who’s coming with you, you know?

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Don’t skip reading the feedback from past riders. Those comments give you real perspectives on just how the tours go. So, were people pleased with the pilots, views, and experience on the whole? Were there complications? So that helps you make a confident decision.

Tips for a Great Helicopter Tour Experience

Okay, you’ve chosen your company, you are about to reserve! How do you ensure things go without a glitch? Some straightforward prep work could ensure you can focus on enjoying that flight, very!

Best Times to Fly

Alright, the time of day makes all of the impact on your sightseeing. Correct? Think about it. Early flights might just have softer lighting, plus they tend to be a bit less turbulent. The evening? Is that the perfect sunset photo op? So, too it’s wise to watch the forecast; sometimes they don’t fly at all.

What to Wear and Bring

Is there a wind in the chopper, correct? Wear layers, alright? It lets you adjust to what’s happening. You want clothing that isn’t loose; maybe don’t bring a big scarf. You should ensure that your possessions will remain secure. Dark clothing works wonders if you are going to be using your camera, very.

Capturing the Best Photos and Videos

Picture taking? How do you document everything when you’re in the air? Ensure your camera is ready ahead of time. That way, you don’t have to fuss as you fly. Reduce window glare, or you should fly with no doors!