How To See the 2023 Synchronous Elkmont Fireflies in the Smoky Mountains Without the TN Lottery Pass
Fireflies, also known as lightning bugs, can be found all over the eastern parts of North America. But! The Smoky Mountains are one destination that attracts thousands of visitors year after year to see the Elkmont fireflies. But why is that? Every year, between late May and early June, the Elkmont fireflies (sometimes also referred to as the Sugarlands Visitor Center fireflies) in the Smoky Mountains National Park light up the night sky. These fireflies are special because they synchronize — meaning that they all light up and dim at once, like a heartbeat! If you’ve never visited to see the synchronous fireflies event at Elkmont, it’s time you do! You’ll be sure to see them twinkling all around the forest floor near your rental cabin.
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Parking Passes by Lottery
Parking passes are required in order to see the Elkmont fireflies. The parking pass will give your vehicle access to the parking lot near the viewing location in Elkmont. Each vehicle may have up to 7 passengers. Parking passes will be distributed through recreation.gov. In previous years, the parking passes would be part of a first come first serve basis.
Chances Of Winning
The chances of winning are impossible to determine due to the odds. It is difficult to pinpoint submission rates. This year, there will be 800 passes up for grabs.
How To View Synchronous Fireflies Without a Lottery Pass
Want to learn how to see the 2023 synchronous Elkmont fireflies in the Smoky Mountains without the TN Lottery pass? While staying in Gatlinburg with Heartland Rentals, guests can drive through Cades Cove from sunup to sun down (except on Wednesdays when it is vehicle free). The fireflies may not blink in sync, but you will see their glitter all around you so long as the temps are above 50 and there is no rain in the forecast. About .5 miles past the visitor gate, there are open fields on both sides where you can see the fireflies dancing in the trees and fields.
Who knew? Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to one of the hidden wonders of the world. A sparkling delight that we as children knew as lightning bugs or fireflies. Surely you’ve seen these glittering little beauties on warm summer nights growing up?
Hey, wait a second before you go! Be sure to check our Current Cabin Specials, Deals, and Discounts to see if your stay qualifies for a special discount! Book your cabin in Gatlinburg with Heartland Rentals for a memorable moment in the mountains.