Smoky Mountain Firefly Viewing And Lottery

When: Firefly viewing lottery opens on April 24th
Where: Elkmont area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park

There are many unique species of animals that call the Great Smoky Mountains home, but the synchronous fireflies might be the most unique of all. The Elkmont area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is world renowned for its magnificent display of this unique species of firefly. From late May to mid-June these fireflies can be seen nightly lighting up the dark hollows of the mountains.

What are synchronous fireflies?

The synchronous firefly (Photinus carolinus, or “lightning bug”) is very similar to many other species of fireflies that you might be familiar with across the world. It’s a small flying beetle with a section of its abdomen that serves as a bioluminescent “lantern.” The difference between these fireflies and others is the synchronous pattern of lighting that they display during their mating period.

The synchronization can be hard to describe to someone who hasn’t seen it. The fireflies will flash multiple times for a few moments then they will almost completely cease flashing for 6 to 8 seconds, leaving the surrounding area almost pitch black. After a brief ceasing, the fireflies will again flash multiple times until the next break. This unique display typically starts around 9:30 PM and will continue through the night.

The reasoning behind the synchronous display is still relatively unknown. However, most experts agree that it has something to do with the mating process of the fireflies. Typically, the male fireflies will fly around during their lighting display while the females remain stationary.

Important Dates and Information for the 2026 Firefly Lottery

Each year, starting at the end of April, parking passes are sold online for the peak week of the firefly display. These tickets sell out almost instantly so if you plan on attending next year make sure and obtain all the information you will need.

• Friday, April 24: Lottery for vehicle passes opens at 10:00 a.m.
• Monday, April 27: Lottery for vehicle passes closes at 11:59 p.m.
• Wednesday, May 6: All lottery applicants will be notified if their application was successful or unsuccessful.
• May 20-27: Annual firefly opportunity.

How does the Smoky Mountain Firefly Lottery Work?

Due to the popularity of this unique event, vehicle reservations are distributed through a lottery system to give all visitors a fair chance to attend.

• Only one application per household is allowed
• Each application may include one preferred date and one alternate date
• A $1 non-refundable application fee is required to enter
• If selected, a $29 reservation fee will automatically be charged to the same card

If the payment cannot be processed, the reservation will be forfeited. To avoid issues, it’s recommended to notify your bank or credit card provider about the potential charge from Recreation.gov.

Please note: All reservations are final—no refunds, transfers, exchanges, or rain checks are permitted.

Reservation Details

A total of 960 vehicle reservations will be issued for the eight-day event, with 120 vehicles allowed per evening. Each reservation is valid for one passenger vehicle with a maximum occupancy of 7 people.

Lottery winners must be present in the vehicle and provide a valid photo ID matching the reservation name upon arrival.

• Arrival & Parking Information
• Plan to arrive at the Elkmont viewing area between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM
• No entry will be allowed after 8:15 PM
• Once you leave, re-entry is not permitted

After checking in near the Elkmont Campground kiosk, park staff will guide vehicles to designated parking areas, including Jakes Creek Trailhead, the Appalachian Clubhouse lot, and nearby roadways.

Park Access & Requirements

Vehicle reservation holders will not need a separate parking tag during the event. However, if you plan to explore other areas of the park outside of your reservation time, a valid parking tag is required.

Viewing Guidelines

The firefly display is a delicate natural phenomenon, and preserving it is essential:

• Stay on designated trails and paved areas
• Use low-powered red lights only—white light disrupts firefly behavior
• Turn off all vehicle interior and exterior lights once parked
• Return to your vehicle only when you’re ready to leave

Primary viewing locations include the Jakes Creek and Little River trails. Please note that pets are not allowed on these trails.

Additional Information

• The event takes place outdoors with no shelter available
• Be prepared for changing weather conditions
• Alcohol is prohibited
• Portable restrooms will be available
• ADA parking is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis
• Wheelchairs are permitted, but trails may include uneven terrain

Experiencing synchronous fireflies in the Great Smoky Mountains is truly unforgettable. With a little planning—and a bit of luck in the lottery—you’ll be ready to enjoy one of nature’s most enchanting light shows.