They might look just like common bugs during the daytime, but wait for the night to see their magic! Synchronous fireflies (Photinus carolinus) are rare firefly species that can light up in unison. Just a few firefly species in North America are capable of that, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to the largest synchronous firefly population in the world. Millions of them gather in the forest in the Elkmont area.
When to see fireflies in Tennesee
Tennessee synchronous fireflies put on their amazing light show during their mating season. It occurs every year from late May to mid-June, for about two weeks. Male beetles flash their lights to attract females that also respond with flashes. The light is emitted due to a chemical reaction of luciferin and oxygen. It's hard to predict the exact dates, as scientists assume the phenomenon depends on the temperature and the soil humidity. Follow the announcements on the Great Smoky Mountains National Park website to know when to plan your firefly adventure. The park service also provides advice on the best spots to watch the fireflies show and even runs a shuttle bus service to enhance visitors' experience.
Where the synchronous fireflies can be seen
Elkmont Campground is the designated spot to observe synchronous fireflies in the Great Smoky Mountains. It's located near Sugarlands Visitor Center, about two miles from Gatlinburg on US Hwy 441. Visitors can board a shuttle to the viewing area at the intersection of Elkmont Rd and Little River Rd.
By the nights the lights should go off so that everyone can enjoy the scene. First, when you see so many people sitting on the portable chairs waiting for a miracle, it seems a bit odd, but when the first twinkles appear in the darkness, the magic starts!
The tickets and parking passes to Sugarland’s Visitor Center to see synchronous fireflies are usually sold based on a lottery. So make sure to apply in advance. Applications are usually accepted starting from April.
Practical info
What makes synchronous fireflies unique?
Synchronous fireflies own their uniqueness to their rare ability to emit twinkling lights in perfect unison. In North America, only a couple of firefly species exhibit this magical display, and the Elkmont area in Great Smoky Mountains National Park harbours the largest population. Each year during their mating season, from late May to mid-June, they gather to give a light symphony show, aweing visitors who are lucky enough to witness it. Show more
When is the optimal time to visit Tennessee to see synchronous fireflies?
Visiting Tennessee between late May and mid-June is ideal for viewing the mesmerizing light symphony of synchronous fireflies. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to North America's most abundant population of synchronous fireflies. As specific factors can influence when the fireflies will emerge, such as temperature and soil humidity, exact dates are challenging to predict. Be sure to monitor the park's website for the most up-to-date information on peak viewing times. Show more
Where exactly in Tennessee can we view synchronous fireflies?
The Elkmont Campground, located roughly two miles away from Gatlinburg on US Hwy 441, is the perfect location to witness the synchronous fireflies' light show. Sugarlands Visitor Center, which overlooks Elkmont, offers tickets for viewers drawn from a lottery system. A shuttle service runs between the parking area and the prime viewing spot. Safety is a top priority, and visitors must follow the park's lighting policies for a magical experience. Show more
What causes synchronous fireflies to light up?
Synchronous fireflies intensify the wonderful atmosphere with their twinkling lights, provoked by the chemical reaction between luciferin and oxygen during their mating season. The males send sequential light signals to attract females who reciprocate with flashes to the same rhythm. The magical sight is a symphony of light, but its exact appearance varies due to temperature and soil humidity. Thus, predicting the peak time for viewing the fireflies can be challenging. Show more
How can we obtain tickets to view synchronous fireflies in Tennessee?
Tickets, including parking passes, to see synchronous fireflies near Sugarland’s Visitor Center in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, are issued via a lottery system. Visitors can apply for tickets in advance through the recreation.gov website, starting April onwards. The park service offers shuttle bus service to designated viewing areas for ease of access and an enhanced viewing experience. Careful planning and patience are all that's needed for a chance to witness this magical natural phenomenon. Show more
