Smoky Mountain Aero Club

Smoky Mountain Aero Club. Since 1936 Radio controlled model airplanes have been cruising the skies at local airfields across the country. Many improvements have come through the years. In the early 2000’s there was a technology explosion that really improved and expanded the hobby. Electric aircraft started to become mainstream with the development of lithium batteries. Radio technology also saw the development of more reliable connections between the aircraft and the pilot. Computer technology puts onboard assistance on the planes to help pilots develop their skills and recover from unstable conditions easier. In the early days it was a very expensive hobby to get into and very difficult to learn. There were no readily available models so it would take months building a model stick by stick to prepare for flying. Today you can buy a complete package ready to fly right out of the box. You can go from the store to flying in just a few short hours.

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Smoky Mountain Lakeview Drive Opens

Smoky Mountain Lakeview Drive Opens. GSMNP is rehabilitating Lakeview Drive in North Carolina through Great American Outdoor Act funding. Lakeview Drive will open  to vehicles on November 16, 2023 at 12 p.m. Visitors should plan for temporary single-lane closures and periodic closures of some parking areas as construction is completed. 

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Smoky Mountain Veterans Day Free Parking

Smoky Mountain free parking!

Smoky Mountain Veterans Day Free Parking! In honor of Veterans Day, visitors to Great Smoky Mountains will not be required to display or buy a parking tag on Saturday, November 11, 2023. This day will be the last free day of free parking for 2023 in the Smokies and throughout the National Park Service.

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Gatlinburg Winter Magic And Chili Cookoff

Gatlinburg Winter Magic And Chili Cookoff. Join us for the kickoff of Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic at the 34th Chili Cookoff presented by Bush’s Chili Beans. Mouth-watering recipes of homemade chili ranging from mild to wild and spicy will be offered. Gatlinburg will host this annual event on Thursday, November 9, 2023 from 5PM to 8 PM at the Shade Tree Parking lot (120 Airport Road, Gatlinburg). Attendees will enjoy free, live entertainment offered throughout the event and Bush’s Beans “Duke the Dog” will make a special appearance! 

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