When and Where to See the Synchronous Fireflies

Thousands of visitors flock to the Asheville area for one of nature’s most enchanting spectacles: the synchronous fireflies. 

These rare fireflies are the only species in North America that synchronize their flashing patterns, creating an awe-inspiring light show deep in the forest.

How to See the Synchronous Fireflies

The synchronous firefly display typically occurs for about two weeks between late May and early June, depending on weather conditions. The best place to see them is at Elkmont in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where the dense forest provides the perfect habitat for this mesmerizing phenomenon. Another excellent spot is Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest in the Nantahala National Forest, where the fireflies also synchronize their flashes in late May and mid-June.

For those in western North Carolina, you may also be able to spot blue ghost fireflies—another fascinating species that emits a steady glow rather than flashing—in places like DuPont State Forest and the Cradle of Forestry in Pisgah National Forest.

How to Get Tickets: The Lottery System

Because of the overwhelming popularity of this natural event, the National Park Service (NPS) runs a lottery system for parking passes at Elkmont. Here’s how it works:

• The lottery typically opens in late April, and applicants have a few days to enter online at recreation.gov.
• Winners are selected randomly and must purchase a vehicle pass to access the viewing area.
• If selected, visitors are assigned a specific date to attend during the viewing window.

If you miss out on the lottery, alternative ways to see the fireflies include guided tours, hikes to less crowded locations, or visiting Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, which does not require a lottery.

Tips for the Best Viewing Experience

• Arrive before sunset to find a good viewing spot and allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness.
• Use a flashlight covered with red or blue cellophane to preserve your night vision and avoid disturbing the fireflies.
• Stay quiet and minimize light pollution so the fireflies can display their natural behavior.
• Dress for the weather and wear insect repellent, as summer evenings in the mountains can be humid and buggy.