One of Mother Nature’s most fascinating events is underway in the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

In the Elkmont campgrounds areas tens of thousands of fireflies (lightning bugs to the local folks) are beginning their annual mating ritual.

elkmont lightning bugs

The fascinating part is that huge groups of these amorous insects begin flashing in almost perfect synronization in hopes of attracting the attentions of a female firefly.

According to scientists a female firefly will start blinking her light from the ground or under a bush. Soon big bunches of male fireflies will begin gathering and after just a few minutes they all beging blinking their lights simultaneously.

It’s a wonderous sight to behold as the dark woods light up with thousands of tiny lights all blinking in unison; great for children of all ages.

elkmont fireflies

The annual light show usually runs through June and sometimes into early July. If you’ve never seen them in action it’s a great way to spend a summer evening with the kids (or without them) ;-) .

Because of the hundreds of visitor this annual show attracts the National Park Service has prohibitied private vehicles in Elkmont from June 8th through the 16, peak viewing times. Trolley service is available from the Sugarlands Visitor’s Center just outside Gatlinburg and a round trip ride is only $1.00.

Here are some tips on firefly watching etiquette.

Flashlights disrupt the fireflies and impair people’s night vision. The light show is best when you:

  • Cover your flashlight with red or blue cellophane.
  • Use your flashlight only when walking to your viewing spot.
  • Point your flashlight at the ground.
  • Turn off your flashlight when you find your viewing spot.
  • Don’t catch the fireflies and stay on the trail at all times. I know it’s a tempation for the kids but please restrict your firefly catching to your background; others want to enjoy these special fireflies too.