05/20/2026
The synchronous firefly viewing event begins today at Elkmont and runs through May 27!
Please remember:
• After 12 PM, access to Elkmont is limited to vehicles with reservations and registered campers.
• No overnight parking is permitted at Little River Trailhead, Jakes Creek Trailhead, or the Appalachian Clubhouse during this period.
The Elkmont area in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to a large population of synchronous fireflies. These temporary closures help protect the fireflies and firefly habitat during their mating season. The park uses soil temperature to predict peak viewing dates, which can shift each year. Since 1993, recorded peak activity has ranged from the third week of May to the third week of June.
Thank you for helping us protect these incredible insects!
Learn more about synchronous fireflies: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/nature/fireflies.htm
Photo by P. Driessche