I mentioned previously that I have not flown since last year. This is partly because of the new FAA registration rules (not wanting to be on a public database), irate bystanders, and of course winter. I finally decided to register with the FAA and power up my birds.

First off I wondered if my 250 racing drone even worked. I had crashed it in the snow and wondered if the electronics were fried. I just did some light hovering in the back yard with a little strafing of the grass. It seemed to be fine. I did have one small crash landing in the grass.

I was looking at the 250 and getting ready to fly it again when I realized that the FPV transmitter antenna was gone.

I searched around the crash site and found it. Even if I was able to solder the antenna back on, I doubt the transmitter will work. I bet it is fried.

While on vacation with my family and my large hexacopter in the car, we stopped by for some hiking and sight seeing at the amazing red rock area Valley of Fire State Park, about a 40 minute drive northeast of Las Vegas. I had to pull over and take a picture of this sign.

Entrance to Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada – Unfortunately Signs Like This Will Be More and More Common

Valley of Fire would be a goldmine for aerial photography and video. It would also be a terrible place to crash, either into the red rock or into tourists. I can completely understand why they have a no-drone policy and for those of us who fly I think these signs are going to become more and more common.

While at Utah’s Snow Canyon State Park I talked to the park manager about drone flying there. She said they allow it via permit and that she was the one who have out those permits. A two week notice or more is needed to get the permit. When applying for the permit, information like where and when and for what purpose is required. She didn’t say no, yet.

I was told that state parks have individual regulations with regards to drones, so before you go give them a call. You might have to jump through a couple of hoops but you may get the chance to fly and capture some great material. Be honest and upfront with them and they’ll treat you with more respect.