TN
The Great Smoky Mountains Firefly Viewing Lottery
Synchronous fireflies ( Photinus carolinus ) are one of at least 19 species of fireflies that live in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and one of only a few species in the world known to synchronize their flash patterns. This insects' reproductive display occurs for a couple of weeks every year throughout its range (southern Appalachians), and is typically in late May or early June in the Elkmont area of the park. Synchronous fireflies occur throughout the southern Appalachian region, and large populations of synchronous fireflies occurs in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The park will organize the viewing area by managing vehicle access. Visitors who wish to view the fireflies must acquire a parking pass via lottery to park in these areas. The number of parking spaces is limited. During the 8-day managed period, Little River and Jakes Creek Trailheads will be closed at night to all but permitted vehicles and foot traffic from registered campers in Elkmont Campground. Visit the park's Synchronous Fireflies web page for additional information about the viewing opportunity.
Important Dates
Check back later for information on when this lottery will open again.
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Common Questions
What visitors most often want to know about The Great Smoky Mountains Firefly Viewing Lottery.
Do I need a permit to view the synchronous fireflies in Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
No permit is required to view the synchronous fireflies. Access to the firefly viewing areas in the park is open to all visitors.
When do the synchronous fireflies typically display in Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
The synchronous firefly display typically occurs in late May or early June in the Elkmont area of the park. The display lasts for a couple of weeks during this period.
What are synchronous fireflies and why are they special?
Synchronous fireflies (Photinus carolinus) are one of at least 19 firefly species in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and one of only a few species in the world known to synchronize their flash patterns. This synchronized reproductive display makes them a unique natural phenomenon.
Where in the park can I view the synchronous fireflies?
The synchronous fireflies are found in the Elkmont area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Large populations of these fireflies occur throughout the park's southern Appalachian region.