Find Fireflies in the Asheville Area
Bioluminescent bugs
A Magical Light Show in the Forest
Each spring, as the mountains of western North Carolina come alive with the glow of fireflies, visitors gather to witness one of nature’s most breathtaking performances. The region is home to two remarkable species: the synchronous fireflies, which blink in perfect unison, and the blue ghost fireflies, which emit an eerie, steady glow. From the Great Smoky Mountains to the deep forests of Pisgah and DuPont, these bioluminescent displays offer a magical experience unlike any other.
Curious about where and when to see them? Explore the guides below to plan your own firefly adventure:
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.
Blue Ghost Fireflies
These elusive fireflies emit a continuous blue-white glow rather than the typical blinking pattern seen in other fireflies. Unlike their flashing relatives, blue ghost fireflies create an eerie, floating effect, making the forest feel almost enchanted.
Firefly Fun Facts on the Fly
Discover some amazing facts about fireflies and their glowing magic.
Fireflies are beetles!
They spend most of their life as larvae, feeding for 1-2 years before becoming adults that only live 3-4 weeks.
Synchronous fireflies flash in unison to help females find their species and avoid predators.
Fireflies produce light with no heat, thanks to a chemical reaction in their abdomens.
