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Friends of the Smokies


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Protecting the Smokies. Preserving the experience.

GET YOUR BEAR PLATE

Friends of the Smokies license plates in Tennessee and North Carolina drive improvements all across Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Find out how to get your very own.

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ANNUAL REPORT

Read the Annual Report

SOCIAL MEDIA

Join the community of Friends who love and support the Smokies! Follow us on our social our media channels, and share your stories, videos and photos to inspire others to become a Friend. Tag us @smokiesfriends and use the hashtag #SmokiesFriends on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

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Latest News

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News | November 3, 2025

Appalachian Trail Ridgerunner application deadline for 2026 closes Nov. 7, 2025

by Julie Dodd Applications for Ridgerunner positions for 2026 in Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) are being accepted through[…]

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News | October 31, 2025

Smokies to remain open with basic services through Jan. 4 amid ongoing shutdown

KODAK, Tenn. (Oct. 31, 2025) – Amid the ongoing federal government shutdown, the nonprofit Friends of the Smokies will continue[…]