Quick Facts
The Phenomenon
For approximately two weeks each year in late May or early June, something magical happens in the Elkmont area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Thousands of Photinus carolinus fireflies, one of only a few species in the world known to synchronize their flashing, put on a breathtaking natural light show.
Imagine standing in a dark forest as thousands of tiny lights blink on and off in perfect unison. Flash, darkness, flash, darkness. Then a wave of answering flashes from the female fireflies on the ground. It is an experience that leaves visitors speechless and often moved to tears.
Scientists are not entirely sure why these fireflies synchronize, though it is believed to be related to mating. The synchronized flashing may help females identify males of their species. Whatever the reason, the result is one of nature's most extraordinary displays.
Approx drive time from our cabins: 20 to 25 minutes to the Sugarlands Visitor Center where shuttles depart for Elkmont viewing area.
The synchronous fireflies of the Smokies are one of only a handful of places in the world where this phenomenon can be observed. If you have the opportunity to attend, do not miss it. The experience is unlike anything else in nature.
When Does It Happen?
The synchronous firefly display typically occurs for about two weeks sometime between late May and mid-June. The exact timing varies year to year depending on:
- Temperature (warmer springs may trigger earlier displays)
- Rainfall patterns
- Soil conditions where larvae develop
The park typically announces viewing dates in late April or early May. Peak display usually occurs around 10 PM, with activity starting at dusk and continuing for several hours.
Plan Your Firefly Trip
Our cabins are the perfect base for late May and early June visits. Win the lottery? You are just 20 minutes from Sugarlands Visitor Center!
Check Cabin AvailabilityHow to See the Fireflies
The Lottery System
Due to overwhelming demand and the need to protect this fragile ecosystem, the park uses a lottery system for vehicle passes. Here is how it works:
- Watch for announcements: The park announces lottery dates in late April or early May
- Enter the lottery: Applications open on Recreation.gov for a brief window (usually late April)
- Results: Winners are notified and can purchase passes (check website for current pricing)
- Passes: Each pass allows one vehicle to access the Elkmont viewing area on a specific date
Lottery Tips
- Set a reminder for when the lottery opens
- Apply for multiple dates if possible to increase your chances
- Have a backup plan as odds of winning are typically low
- Check for last-minute availability if you do not win
The Viewing Experience
What to Expect
- Shuttle from Sugarlands Visitor Center to Elkmont
- Short walk to designated viewing areas
- Wait for darkness (display begins around 9:30 to 10 PM)
- Approximately 1 to 2 hours of peak display
- Return shuttle to visitor center
Viewing Conditions
- Displays happen rain or shine (though rain reduces activity)
- Moonless nights offer better viewing
- Your eyes need time to adjust to darkness; allow 20+ minutes
- The forest floor also flashes as females respond to males
Rules for Protecting the Fireflies
These guidelines exist to protect the fireflies and ensure future generations can witness this phenomenon:
- No white flashlights: Use red or blue filters only
- Stay on designated trails: Fireflies lay eggs in leaf litter
- No catching fireflies: Observe only
- Keep voices low: Maintain a respectful atmosphere
- No flash photography: It disturbs the fireflies and other viewers
What to Bring
- Red or blue filtered flashlight (or headlamp with red mode)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Insect repellent
- Light jacket (evenings can be cool)
- Chair or blanket to sit on
- Patience and a sense of wonder
Photography Tips
Capturing synchronous fireflies is challenging but possible:
- Tripod is essential
- Fast lens (f/2.8 or faster ideal)
- High ISO capabilities
- Long exposures (10 to 30 seconds) capture multiple flashes
- Composite images from multiple exposures work well
- No flash as it ruins the experience for others and disturbs fireflies
If You Do Not Win the Lottery
Do not despair if you cannot get lottery passes. Other options exist:
- Other park areas: Fireflies (not always synchronous) appear throughout the park
- Private lands: Some nearby properties offer viewing experiences
- Other years: The event happens annually so plan ahead for next year
- Blue ghost fireflies: Another species with a different display visible May through June
Even if you do not get lottery tickets, staying in Gatlinburg during late May and early June means you can still see fireflies around the cabins and throughout the park on trails. The synchronous show at Elkmont is unique, but the general magic of firefly season is everywhere.
Related Guides
Approx Drive Time from Our Cabins
| Location | Drive Time |
|---|---|
| Sugarlands Visitor Center (shuttle pickup) | Approx 20 to 25 minutes |
