Fireflies!

Its time for the synchronous fireflies display in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park!

http://www.nps.gov/grsm/naturescience/fireflies.htm

The firefly beetle responsible for the awesome synchronized show, Photinus Carolinus, is best seen in Elkmont and usually starts around the second week in June. The start and duration of the fireflies mating behavior can vary depending on when they emerged, current temperature and other factors. Its impossible to know the exact dates, but City of Gatlinburg trolleys will be running from June 6th to the 14th. For the cost of $1.00 per person, you can ride a trolley from the Sugarlands visitor center parking lot to Elkmont. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park will close Elmont Road from 5 pm to 12 pm to all vehicles other than those of registered campers in Elkmont Campgrounds. You can't park in any of the pull-offs or along the road during the times the shuttles are running. The trolleys to take you to the Elkmont synchronized firefly display run from 6 pm to 9 pm or will stop sooner if the parking area is full. Though the last trolley is scheduled to leave Elkmont by 11:00 pm it sometimes runs later as needed. Since it is unsafe to walk or bike along roadways at night, you must take the trolley if you want to see the firefly display.
You may bring along a blanket or small folding chair and your own food and drink (NO alcoholic beverages). Coolers are not allowed and what you bring must fit on your lap in the trolley. A small flashlight with a red or blue lense cover so as not to disturb others is recommended.