See the Magical Fireflies Show in the Great Smoky Mountains, USA
Every year, towards the end of May to early June, the Great Smoky Mountains in the USA set a different view. For several weeks, its forests light up with synchronized flashes from fireflies. Such a magical event, hardly ever seen on Earth, turns the place into a beautiful fairyland. Surely, it is a great experience for nature lovers and families who want to spend a magical evening outdoors, attracting visitors from everywhere.
Plan Your Visit
The timing is of essence when viewing the synchronous fireflies. It usually peaks towards the end of May or early June. The exact dates vary from one year to another since they are influenced by weather and other environmental factors. In that respect, persons visiting the locality must always check the Great Smoky Mountains National Park website for updates and any announcements concerning the firefly viewing season in order for one to be better equipped to make their visit.
Get Your Ticket
Because of the overwhelming attendance, and to reduce impacts to the environment, access to premier viewing areas is managed through a lottery system for parking passes. At the request of interested persons, an online application should be made through the National Park Service website, usually in April. In this way, the winners are allowed to park at the Sugarlands Visitor Center and take a shuttle to Elkmont, where most of the firefly activity happens.
What to Bring
Bring along folding chairs or blankets to sit on as it will get dark. Pack some snacks and water with you, but do not leave any footprint behind to take care of the ecosystem. Get your flashlights that have been covered with red or blue cellophane. This will provide you great night vision without hampering the view of the wildlife or other people nearby sitting in respect to watch these glowing creatures.
Be Kind to Nature
In order for the best view of the fireflies, it’s important that noise and flash photography are minimized so that these activities don’t interrupt the mating behaviors of the fireflies. One should keep on the trails to help out both visitors and the habitat of the insects. It is only through the observance of these rules and recommendations that an individual’s stay in the Great Smoky Mountains will be respectful and breathtaking, allowing everyone to have a harmonious, responsible experience with this natural wonder.
