Great Smoky Mountains National Park Radio Frequencies

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park utilizes various radio frequencies for communication among park rangers and other personnel. This comprehensive guide delves into the specific frequencies, communication systems, and additional details surrounding the park’s radio infrastructure.

Frequencies Used by the National Park Service

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Radio Frequencies — Image Credit: Wikimedia

The National Park Service operates within authorized frequency bands, primarily in the 162-174 MHz range, which is administered by the National Telecommunications Information Administration (NTIA). This frequency band is used for conventional land mobile radio (LMR) systems.

Additionally, the park employs an APCO 25 Digital, Linked Repeater System, which utilizes the following frequencies:

408.475 MHz
408.725 MHz
412.275 MHz
415.125 MHz

Specific Frequencies Used by Park Rangers

Parkwide Frequencies

Park rangers in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park utilize the following frequencies for communication:

408.475 MHz
408.725 MHz
412.275 MHz
415.125 MHz

These frequencies may employ encryption for security purposes.

Tennessee Advanced Communications Network (TACN) Project 25 Phase II

Park rangers also have access to the Tennessee Advanced Communications Network (TACN) Project 25 Phase II system, which allows for broader communication and coordination within the region.

Radio Communication Systems

Conventional Land Mobile Radio (LMR) Systems

The park’s conventional land mobile radio (LMR) systems operate within the 162-174 MHz frequency band and are compliant with the Telecommunications Industry Association standard TIA-102 (P-25) and the Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS-197) Advanced Encryption Standard (AES).

Federal Interoperability Channels

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park utilizes federal interoperability channels for emergency response missions, ensuring seamless coordination with other agencies.

Additional Information

Encryption

Some of the park’s radio communications may employ encryption to enhance security and protect sensitive information.

Radio Coordinators

For specific information or coordination on radio communications within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, visitors and personnel are advised to contact the park unit’s radio coordinator.

References

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s radio communication infrastructure is a crucial component of its operations, enabling efficient coordination and emergency response among park rangers and other personnel. By understanding the specific frequencies, communication systems, and additional details outlined in this guide, visitors and enthusiasts can better appreciate the technological aspects that support the park’s management and preservation efforts.