Great Smokies Eco-Adventure
2021-08-29 12:00 - 2021-08-31 17:00 (America/New_York)
Experience the Smokies like never before! Spend your days exploring the wilds of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and your nights glamorously camping off the grid. DLiA is partnering with A Walk in the Woods to bring you this exclusive 3-day, 2-night adventure that will include guided hikes and nature walks, camping in a luxurious off-grid setting, great local food and drink, and much more. All proceeds from this fundraising event will help DLiA discover and conserve the rich biodiversity of the Smokies.

PURCHASE TICKETS

Gain new insight into the rich biodiversity of the Smokies from experts in local flora and fauna!

Savor delicious local food & drink!

Enjoy s’mores around the campfire with live music by Elza Gate!

Curl up with a book, surrounded by natural wondersComfy glamping accomodationsSerene naturescapes + wine!S’mores by the campfireEnjoy fresh delights from our off-grid camp kitchenOff-grid, but with hot showers!

Tentative schedule

The 2-night adventure begins at noon Sunday, August 29th and will last and will conclude on the evening of Tuesday, August 31st. Here’s a look at what’s in store.

DAY 1 (SUNDAY, AUG 29) Guests will meet at Sugarlands Visitor Center at noon, and enjoy light snacks and a guided insect hike led by DLiA’s resident entomologist, Will Kuhn. In the late afternoon, we’ll head to A Walk in the Woods’ private off-the-grid camp located near Cosby and settle into our luxurious glamping accommodations. We’ll enjoy a cocktail party with heavy hors d’oeuvres, serenaded by local bluegrass duet, Elza Gate. We’ll finish off with s’mores around a campfire.

DAY 2 (MONDAY, AUG 30) We’ll have fresh coffee and an early breakfast at camp made with local ingredients and pack our sack lunches. Guests will then have a choice of day hikes: for the adventurous, an exclusive guided hike through old-growth forest to see some of the largest trees in the southern US (moderate difficulty, but gorgeous), or guests may choose an easier guided waterfall/swimming hole hike. We’ll arrive back at camp in early evening and enjoy southern fixins around the campfire.

DAY 3 (TUESDAY, AUG 31) We’ll start with a pancake breakfast, pack sack lunches, and pack up our gear. Guests will again have a choice between two day hikes: a more strenuous guided through-hike along Gabes Mountain Trail (8 miles) or an easier hike in the Cosby area of the Park. We’ll plan to arrive back at Sugarlands Visitor Center around 5PM where we’ll say our goodbyes and guests will depart.

Your hosts

The Great Smokies Eco-Adventure is co-hosted by Discover Life in America and A Walk in the Woods. As an award-winning, locally owned and operated tour guide company, A Walk in the Woods has been helping people get the most out of their Smoky Mountains experience for over 23 years, serving over 100,000 visitors along the way!

A Walk in the Woods has generously provided their camp, staff, and Smokies expertise to make this new and exciting fundraising event possible and we are so excited to work with them!

Tickets: $950 per person

All proceeds from this event will help DLiA continue its work in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Tickets are $950 per person, which includes your travel, accommodation, food, and alcohol during the event (details below).

PURCHASE TICKETS

What does your ticket purchase support?

Biodiversity research in the SmokiesOur biology interships……and photo/videography internshipsBiodiversity educationPublic engagement through citizen scienceConservation of creatures great and small in the Smokies

Specifically, your support will fund

our continuing research work with the All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory, aimed cataloging, understanding, and ultimately conserving the remarkable diversity of life in the Smokiesour world-class summer internship program, where we train the next generation of conservationists through an immersive experience in the Smokiesour educational programming in and around Great Smoky Mountains NP, fostering nature literacy among our community (Science @ Sugarlands, iScience, Species SnapIt & MapIt)and much more!

Travel (included during event)

Ticket purchase includes private bus transportation during the event. Guests must arrange their own travel to and from the meeting place (Sugarlands Visitor Center in Great Smoky Mountains National Park) before and after the event.

Food & drink (included)

Food (including vegan options) and drinks (including beer and wine) are included. Guests should plan to eat lunch before arriving on Sunday (light snacks will be provided). Please specify any dietary restrictions during ticket purchase and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

Accommodations (included)

This is a “glamping” (glamorous camping) event and accommodations are rustic, but comfortable. The camp is off-the-grid, but it has many of the amenities of home, including hot showers and running water, a well-stocked camp kitchen, and a battery pack for lighting and to charge your phone as needed. You’ll sleep in a large 2-person tent with a comfy cot. Pricing is based on double occupancy.

What to bring

Required

sleeping bag towelday packhiking shoes/bootsrain jacketwater bottlecool weather clothing and jacket

Recommended

travel pillowflashlight or headlamp with fresh batteriesinsect repellentsunscreentoiletries

Where & when to meet?

Meet at Sugarlands Visitor Center, Bus parking lot (closest to Little River Road) at noon on Sunday. We will send out instructions and follow-up information to ticket holders as the event approaches.

Cancellation Policy

Full payment is due at sign up. If you decide to cancel your spot, we are happy to refund your full payment if and only if we are able to fill your slot before the event.

Salamander Ball 2021
2021-10-23 18:00 - 22:00 | Parkway Drive-in Theatre, Maryville, TN, 2909 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Maryville, Tennessee, 37804
Join us at the Parkway Drive-In Theatre in Maryville for our annual salamander bash, featuring live music, screening of freshwater nature films, silent auction of adventure packages, and more! All proceeds from this fundraising event will support Discover Life in America and its work to conserve the biodiversity of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

PURCHASE TICKETS

SILENT AUCTION

Announcing Double Feature:

Attack of the Killer Tomatoes

Just in time for Halloween, we’ll screen the 1978 parody film about tomatoes becoming sentient and revolting against humanity!

Featuring beautiful films from Freshwaters Illustrated on the big screen!

RiverWebs

RiverWebs is an award-winning documentary about the interconnectedness between freshwater habitats and the forests that surround them. In Freshwaters Illustrated‘s gorgeous style, it features incredible underwater footage of the fish, amphibians, insects and other creatures that inhabit river systems woven together by the story of the scientists that explore these fascinating worlds. (56 minutes)

The Last Dragons

The Last Dragons is the story of Appalachia’s hellbender salamanders. Get an up-close look at these giant, bizarre looking Southern Appalachian natives. (10 minutes)

Image credit: Freshwaters Illustrated.

Musical guest, Bill Mize

“Guitars pine for the fingers of Bill Mize, who makes them weep, sing and rollaround like a cat at his feet. Thumpin’ good acoustic majesty.” – WDVX Knoxville

Bill is a past winner of the Winfield National Fingerstyle Guitar Competition, and received a GRAMMY Award for his collaboration with musician and storyteller David Holt on the recording Stellaluna. Popular acoustic guitar compilations “The Windham Hill Guitar Sampler and “Masters of the Acoustic Guitar” by Narada Records include his music. In 2009, Bill’s music appeared in the Ken Burns documentary “The National Parks: America’s Best Idea” and will again be heard in the upcoming Ken Burns documentary ”Country Music.” Joining Bill on a few tunes will be Beth Bramhall on accordion adding her sublime stylings to Bill’s music. Find out more at billmize.com.

Special reading of The Great Smoky Mountain Salamander Ball by author Lisa Horstman

Our beloved annual fundraiser gets it name from this delightful tale. In The Great Smoky Mountain Salamander Ball, written and illustrated by Lisa Horstman, we meet Sara, a young girl who is on vacation in the Great Smoky Mountains. Wandering from her tent late one summer night, Sara discovers an invitation she can’t resist, inviting her to the Salamander Ball! This book can be purchased here.

Adventure Auction

The auction is now live! Bid on exciting adventure packages online or the night of the event!

Take a guided nature hike from knowledgeable locals, see the synchronous fireflies at DLiA’s Fireflies Event at Norton Creek and spend the night at the luxurious venue, and much more. All auction proceeds will help us better study the biodiversity of the Smokies.

BID NOW!

Halloween Car-stume Contest

Take a ride on the wild side at the Salamander Ball on Wheels! With Halloween right around the corner, let your creativity shine and give your car a makeover with our Halloween Car-stume contest. The top best dressed cars will receive some great prizes. Categories include spookiest, funniest and most unique.

Tickets

$50 per carload of peoplelocal beer provided with ticket purchaseconcession stand will be open with food items available for additional purchase

PURCHASE TICKETS

Salamander Ball on Wheels 2022
2022-10-07 18:00 - 21:30 | Parkway Drive-in Theatre, Maryville, TN, 2909 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Maryville, Tennessee, 37804
Come one, come all, to the Salamander Ball! Our third annual “Salamander Ball on Wheels” is an appreciation event to thank our volunteers, sponsors and supporters, past and present.Save the date October 7th for an evening of family-friendly fun and our featured movie, The Lorax at the Parkway Drive-in Movie Theater in Maryville, TN!

It’s free, but donations are welcome to support this event!

Fireflies at Norton Creek 2023
2023-06-08 19:00 - 2023-06-11 23:00
Watch the Smokies’ magical fireflies in style! Our annual firefly event is a one-of-a-kind viewing experience. From the comfort of a luxurious private reserve, enjoy food and drink surrounded by gorgeous natural scenery, and witness an incredible display of synchronous and blue ghost fireflies (and other glowing critters) guided by our knowledgeable staff. Four nights to choose from. This is an evening you won’t forget! All proceeds help us at Discover Life in America carry out our mission to understand and conserve the diversity of life in the Smokies. TICKETS AVAILABLE JAN 2ND!

NOTE: This is NOT the synchronous firefly lottery at Elkmont in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is a private fundraising event located on private land adjacent to the park.

WHAT TO EXPECT // TICKET INFO // CANDLELIGHT DINNER // FAQs

Limited tickets for Saturday, June 10th and Sunday, June 11th now available!

A gorgeous venue

Hemlock House

Hors d’oeuvres by Whole Earth Grocery //Luca Pfeiffer

//Luca Pfeiffer

Incredible interior //Luca Pfeiffer

Glow-in-the-dark firefly blankets for sale! //Luca Pfeiffer

A magnificent ravine for fireflies

//Luca Pfeiffer

Fireflies, galore!

Synchronous firefly //Abbott Nature

Light trails of blue ghosts //Abbott Nature

Blue ghost male //Abbott Nature

Blue ghost female //Abbott Nature

Firefly larva //Abbott Nature

Blue glow of fungus gnats //Luca Pfeiffer

Synchronous fireflies’ woodland display //Abbott Nature

What to expect

Location: Norton Creek Preserve, a 3000-acre tract adjacent to Great Smoky Mountains NP, near Gatlinburg, TN. Detailed directions will be sent to ticketholders before the event.

Food is included: heavy hors d’oeuvres by Whole Earth Grocery, including vegetarian options

Drinks are included: local beer as well as wine, sodas, and tea

Includes expert-guided firefly viewing: we’ll point out different firefly species and answer your firefly questions

Light, uphill walking will be involved on paved and gravel surfaces

Rain or shine: we’ll hold the event even if rain is forecast (see FAQs)

No pets allowed

Open to kids 10 and up (ticket required for each child)

More information: ticketholders will receive directions and details via email in mid-May

FAQs: read our list of frequently asked questions for more information

COVID-19 POLICY: We believe in science and things are changing fast with COVID-19! We will follow the latest CDC guidance at this event to keep our guests, staff, and volunteers safe. We will update ticketholders with current information as the event approaches. Please keep in mind that you may be required to wear a mask during the indoor part of the event.

//Luca Pfeiffer

Candlelight DinnerFriday, June 9 at 6:00 pm

Take your firefly experience to the next level with an over-the-top, extravagant evening centered around the Smokies’ famous synchronized fireflies.Earl and Margit Worsham will receive you in their home together with Lee Naughton (DLiA board member) and husband Eugene (Dollywood Company President) for a special dinner and drinks prepared by Dollywood’s own Master Chef.INCLUDES full bar with signature cocktails, special dinner, live auction, and guided firefly viewing. Tickets are $750 per person; quantity is limited.

//Joseph Roberts

//Joseph Roberts

//Joseph Roberts

//Joseph Roberts

//Joseph Roberts

//Joseph Roberts

//Joseph Roberts

What people love about our event

Guided firefly viewing. Our knowledgeable staff will point out different firefly species to you and can tell you what makes each one special.

It’s private. This event is held on private land and we only host around 50 guests per night. Each guest can witness the magic on their own without the crowds.

The venue is magnificent! You’ll love exploring the guest house where we start our event and the gorgeous surrounding property nestled in the Smoky Mountains.

It’s dark. We try to keep things very dark so your eyes can adjust, allowing you to see the wonderful bioluminescence around you. (Don’t worry, we’ve got lights if you need them.)

Four nights to choose from

Thursday, June 8 @ 7pm – $250 per person

Friday, June 9 @ 6pm – candlelight dinner, $750 per person

Saturday, June 10 @ 7pm – $250 per person

Sunday, June 11 @ 7pm – $250 per person

Tickets

Tickets for Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday nights are $250 per person and $750 per person for Friday. Tickets are open to anyone 10 years of age or older (children under 10 are not allowed at this event). Each ticket is for a single night of the event. Tickets for Thursday June 8th, Saturday, June 10th and Sunday, June 11th are currently sold out. Join the waiting list below to be contacted if spots become available. All proceeds from this event support DLiA and our work in Great Smoky Mountains National Park (learn more).

Cancellation policy

Full payment is due at checkout. We will be happy to refund your payment if and only if we are able to fill your slot, up until May 23rd, 2023. After that date, no refunds will be given.

FAQs

Q. Is this event related to the synchronous firefly lottery in Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

A. Nope. Discover Life in America is a non-profit partner of the Park; however, this is a private fundraising event that is not associated with the Park’s lottery for synchronous firefly viewing at Elkmont. That is a totally separate event and we cannot answer questions about the lottery, dates for the lottery, or anything else related to it. Information about the lottery can be found at https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/nature/fireflies.htm.

Q. $250 per person seems expensive. Is this event really worth it?

A. We certainly think so! You can expect a lot of value for the ticket price AND you’re supporting Discover Life in America and our important work in the Smokies! There’ll be delicious food, made from scratch by our friends at Whole Earth Grocery, and yummy alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. You’ll get to explore the private venue, which is not open to the public. It’s a gorgeous house made from rough-hewn hemlocks and decorated with birch bark that’s set on a pastoral hilltop right next to the national park. You’ll have one-on-one time with Will Kuhn, our resident entomologist, who will tell you more than you ever wanted to know about the 19 species of fireflies that live in the Smokies. And of course you’ll get to see the magical display of the synchronous fireflies, but not among a crowd in the national park. Rather, you’ll see them in a leisurely, small-group setting with guides to point them out and answer all your questions. We are confident that you’ll enjoy yourself and learn something new!

Q. How do you know the synchronous fireflies will be active?

A. Synchronous fireflies in the Smokies region typically reach their peak activity around the end of May to middle of June; however, this can vary from year to year based on temperature and weather. The Park uses temperature data to plan the dates of their lottery system, typically releasing those dates around late April. We, however, must book the venue for our Fireflies Event a year in advance, so we carefully select a date that falls within the peak season for synchronous firefly activity from previous years. In the nine years that we’ve been doing this event, we’ve never been disappointed.

Q. I can’t find the exact location of this event on your website. Why is that?

A. As the synchronous fireflies have become extremely popular in the Smokies, we don’t post our event location for fear that the public will trespass on the private property of our generous hosts and trample the pristine firefly habitat. Rest assured though: we will contact all ticket holders with detailed directions to the event and other information that you’ll need to know for this once-in-a-lifetime evening.

Q. Where should I stay during the event?

A. Lodging is not included as part of the Fireflies Event; but there are lots of hotel options in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. These are the two closest large communities to the venue and they’re about equal distance from the venue. There are also lots of cabins and small rental properties along “The Spur” (The Spur is a section of the Foothills Parkway connecting Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg; a.k.a. HWY 441).

Q. Are kids allowed at this event?

A. Children 10 years of age or older may attend this event with ticket purchase. Children under 10 years of age are not allowed to attend this event.

Q. Will the event be canceled if rain is in forecast?

A. Nope. The Smokies region gets lots of rain (one of the reasons it’s so rich in fireflies) but it has not affected our firefly viewing. The first part of the event takes places inside, under cover, and the viewing is outside under decent canopy cover. We highly recommend that you bring a light rain jacket in case we get a little rain during viewing. Rain or shine, it’s going to be great!

Q. In the description for this event, you mention “other glowing critters.” What do you mean?

A. There is a veritable menagerie of glowing critters to see at the Fireflies Event! Apart from synchronous fireflies (Photinus carolinus) and blue ghost fireflies (Phausis reticulata), we’ve seen railroad worms (Phengodes spp.), which are another type of beetle with glowing larvae and adult females, and also fungus gnat larvae (a.k.a. foxfire flies, Orfelia fultoni), which glow faintly blue from seeps on the hillside. We will see some of the region’s 9 other glowing firefly species, too, as we wait for the synchronous and blue ghost fireflies to start their show. We usually find the glowing larvae of a number of firefly species, as well. So much bioluminescence to see and we’ll point glowers out to you as we encounter them!

Q. Other questions?

A. Please carefully read our FAQ for answers to common questions, then ask Todd if you still need help: todd@dlia.org or (865)-430-4757.

Conservation on Tap
2023-07-12 19:00 | Albright Grove Brewing Company, 2924 Sutherland Ave, Knoxville, Tennessee, 37919
Save the Little River!

Conservation on Tap

Wednesday, July 12, 7:00 p.m.

Albright Grove Brewing Company, Knoxville

FREE!

Dr. Andrew Gunnoe, associate professor of sociology at Maryville College and president of the of the Little River Watershed Association, will be speaking about the LRWA’s mission to protect, preserve, and enhance the Little River and its tributaries. Come learn about this amazing river and how you too can become part of the community of people working on its behalf. Proceeds benefit Discover Life in America and LRWA!

Litter River Watershed Association’s mission is to protect, preserve and enhance the Little River and its tributaries through CONSERVATION EDUCATION & RECREATION

Conservation on Tap
2023-08-09 19:00 | Albright Grove Brewing Company, 2924 Sutherland Ave, Knoxville, Tennessee, 37919
Conservation on Tap: Great Smoky Mountains National ParkWednesday, August 9th at 7pm at Albright Grove Brewing Co. in Knoxville, TN

Ranger and Management Analyst Kendra Straub will brief us on Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s new parking pass system and what revenue it is generating. She’ll also fill us in on trends in park visitation and unveil some findings from the hot-off-the-press visitor use survey. Kendra has been on the front lines over the last several years using research and data to reconcile the park’s surge in visitation with shrinking available funds. If you care about America’s most-visited national park, this is one you won’t want to miss!

Conservation on Tap is a monthly speaker series held the second Wednesday of each month at Albright Grove Brewing Co. All beer sales, at the event, benefit Discover Life in America.

Event is free!

Conservation on Tap
2023-11-08 19:00 | Albright Grove Brewing Company, 2924 Sutherland Ave, Knoxville, Tennessee, 37919
Conservation on Tap

Wednesday, November 8, 7:00 p.m.

Albright Grove Brewing Company, Knoxville

FREE!

If you’ve wondered what actually happens when Congress fails to pass a budget and America’s most popular national park must potentially close, check out this first-of-a-kind panel discussion on the catastrophic impacts to the park, park visitors, park partners, and park neighbors. The talk will feature the executive directors from Discover Life in America, Friends of the Smokies, Great Smoky Mountains Association, and other park partners. Will the park be locking the gates right before the super busy Thanksgiving holiday? Join in and discover some answers.

Proceeds benefit Discover Life in America.

Great Smokies Eco-Adventure: April 21-23
2024-04-21 12:00 - 2024-04-23 16:00
Mark your calendar for an immersive Smokies experience like none other! Spend your days exploring the wilds of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and your nights glamorously camping off the grid. DLiA and partner A Walk in the Woods bring you an exclusive 3-day, 2-night adventure, with expert-led nature hikes, camping in a luxurious off-grid setting, mouth-watering, local food and drink, and much more. All proceeds from this fundraising event will help DLiA discover and conserve the rich biodiversity of the Smokies.

A Walk in the Woods has generously provided access to Camp Atagahi, their staff, and their Smokies expertise to make this event really shine!

DLiA’s Will, Jaimie, and Todd will be your guides for the duration of the Eco-Adventure. They’re excited to be your gracious hosts and share their expert knowledge of the natural and cultural history of the Smokies!

The Great Smokies Eco-Adventure is a truly unique experience!

Guided hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park to learn about local flora and fauna, including wildflowers and other plants, pollinators and insects, fungi and more!

Hike on a section of the legendary Appalachian Trail (AT)

Morning bird-watching at camp

Guided night hike to look for nocturnal creatures, using a bat detector and UV flashlights.

Evening campfires to share stories and s’mores

Freshly prepared meals, including beer and wine.

Luxury Camping Accommodations, including spacious tents with cots and mattress

Enjoy hot showers after a day on the trail

Purchase Tickets

Yo

Camp Atagahi

The Great Smokies Eco-Adventure is co-hosted by Discover Life in America and A Walk in the Woods. As an award-winning, locally owned and operated tour guide company, A Walk in the Woods has been helping people get the most out of their Smoky Mountains experience for over 23 years, serving over 100,000 visitors along the way!

All meals are included with your ticket price, prepared on site with local produce, cheeses, and other ingredients. Vegan and vegetarian options are available. Beer and wine are also provided as well as soft drinks of your choice. (We’ll inquire about your dietary restrictions and beverage choices close to the event.)

Camp Atagahi is A Walk in the Woods’ premiere off-grid camping facility located in a small valley just north of the National Park boundary between Pitman Center and Cosby, Tennessee. It features a well-stocked off-grid commercial kitchen and excellent bathroom facility with running water, flush toilets, and hot showers. Guests are lulled to sleep at night by the babbling creek that flows through camp. Tents are spacious, mounted on wooden platforms, and feature a covered “front porch” area where you can sit and enjoy a glass of wine, listening to the sounds of nature.

Guided Hikes in the Smokies

The Great Smokies Eco-Adventure in April features guided hikes during peak wildflower season in Great Smoky Mountains National Park (a short drive from Camp Atagahi). We’ll keep it slow and easy-going, with lots of stops to admire and talk about the Smokies’ incredible biodiversity, including native trees, pollinating insects, birds, and more. We’ll also share our expert knowledge of the cultural history of the landscape.

Our one-of-a-kind hikes will leave you with a new appreciation for the incredible variety of life in the Smokies region and they’re really fun, too!

Eco-Adventure Itinerary

Sunday, April 21: Guests will meet in GSMNP at noon and enjoy light snacks and introductions. We’ll go on guided hike led by DLiA staff on the Twin Creeks Trail (Total trail mileage under 2 miles) In the late afternoon, we’ll get load up our gear and get transported to A Walk in the Woods’ private off-grid camp located near Cosby and settle into our not-too-rustic glamping accommodations. We’ll have drinks and a wholesome dinner. We’ll finish off with s’mores around a campfire.

Monday, April 22: We’ll have locally-sourced coffee and a hot breakfast at camp and pack sack lunches. We’ll then head to the Greenbrier area in GSMNP on our hike to Fern Branch Falls on the Porter’s Creek trail. This hike is 4 miles round-trip and is considered moderate. We’ll arrive back at camp by late afternoon and enjoy southern fixins’ around the campfire. If you’re up for it, we’ll go for a night hike at the camp to look for nocturnal critters.

Tuesday, April 23: We’ll start with a hot breakfast, pack sack lunches, and pack up our gear. If the conditions and views are favorable, we head up to the high elevations in the park for a hike along the infamous Appalachian Trail. We’ll finish up around 4 pm. We’ll say our goodbyes and guests will depart.

Please note: The itinerary may change due to weather conditions, park closures or at the discretion of DLIA.

Purchase Tickets

Tickets: $950 per person

Your ticket purchase supports Discover Life in America (a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization), helping us continue our work as a partner of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Tickets are $950 per person, which includes accommodations, food and alcohol, as well as expert-guided nature hikes.

Pricing is based on double occupancy of tents, so if you are traveling alone, you may be assigned to share a tent with someone of the same gender.

REGISTRATION CLOSES: April 1, 2024

CANCELLATION POLICY: Full payment is due upon ticket purchase. If you decide to cancel your spot, we will refund your ticket only if we are able to sell your ticket. No refunds will be given after registration closes on April 1st.

What will your ticket purchase support

Biodiversity research in the Smokies

Our biology interships…

…and photo/videography internships

Biodiversity education

Public engagement through community science

Conservation of creatures great and small in the Smokies

Specifically, you’ll help support

research with the All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory, aimed at cataloging, understanding, and ultimately conserving the 21,000+ species that call the Smokies home

our world-class summer internship program, where we train the next generation of scientists and nature advocates through an immersive experience in the Smokies

our educational programming in and around Great Smoky Mountains NP, fostering nature literacy among our community ( iScience and Smokies Most Wanted)

and much more!

ELECTRICITY AND CELL SERVICE: There is no electricity at Camp Atagahi other than a battery back that you may use to charge your phone. There is little to no cell reception at the Camp and in the National Park. Please plan accordingly. If you use a CPAP machine to sleep, you may consider purchasing an appropriate battery pack to power that device during the event.

FAQs

Q. What is the expected weather?

April in the Smokies is usually mild, with daytime temperatures reaching the 50s and 60s, and nighttime sometimes approaching the freezing mark. It’s best to wear layers that you can shed if it’s warm or pile on for those cool nights. But this of course varies from year to year. The region does receive lots of rain (which fuels the growth of all those wildflowers), so be sure to pack a rain jacket or poncho.

Q. How many people will be in attendance?

Space is limited to 15 attendees at the eco-camp where we’ll be staying (2 people per tent with 10 tents). This is a nice group size that permits lots of one-on-one interaction with your guides.

Q. If don’t consider myself a serious hiker, will I be able to keep up?

Our hikes are very much tailored to the abilities and interests of the group and generally follow a leisurely pace as we stop and look at insects, mushrooms, and lots of other sights to see. As long as you are able to walk around 4 miles over several hours, you should be fine.

Q. If I come to the Eco-Adventure alone, will I have to share a tent?

The ticket price for this event is based on double occupancy, so expect that singletons may be paired with another same-gender singleton. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet a fellow nature lover and future friend!

Q. What is included in the ticket price?

The ticket price includes all accommodations, food (including vegetarian and vegan options), alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and expert-led hikes from noon Sunday through Tuesday afternoon.

Q. What do I need to bring?

Please bring a sleeping bag, towel, day pack and wear sturdy hiking shoes, rain gear and cool weather clothing. Also, please bring a well-fitting face mask. Tents, cots, sleeping pads, and other basics are all provided. You can find a full list of required and recommended items above on this page. Attendees will receive additional information via email prior to the event.

Q. Will there be electricity or cell service at the camp?

Camp Atagahi does not have grid electricity, however, we will provide a battery back that you can use to charge your cell phone and other small electronics. There is little to no cell signal in the area. The Eco-Adventure is a great chance to step away from the busy world and enjoy some screen-free time in nature!

Q. If I have any other questions, who should I contact?

Please contact DLiA’s Biodiversity Program Specialist, Jaimie Matzko, at jaimie@dlia.org and she’ll be happy to answer your questions about the Eco-Adventure. You can also visit dlia.org to learn more about DLiA’s work in the Smokies.

Conservation on Tap
2024-06-12 19:00 - 20:30 | Albright Grove Brewing Company, 2924 Sutherland Ave, Knoxville, Tennessee, 37919
Join Great Smoky Mountains National Park spokesperson Emily Davis for a summer update on what’s happening in the park. Emily will cover topics like the new parking fees, bear population, staffing, trail projects, and much more!

Conservation on Tap is a monthly series hosted by Albright Grove Brewing Co. to benefit Discover Life in America, Great Smoky Mountain National Park’s biological science and conservation partner.

Conservation on Tap is a monthly series hosted by Albright Grove Brewing Co. to benefit Discover Life in America, Great Smoky Mountain National Park’s biological science and conservation partner.

Conservation on Tap
2024-09-11 19:00 - 20:30
Conservation on Tap

When? September 11, 7.00 p.m.Where? Albright Grove Brewing Company in Knoxville

Free!

Knoxville Recycles!

Join Keep Knoxville Beautiful to learn more about how and where to recycle in Knoxville. What can be recycled? What can’t. What about hazardous waste? What really happens to all that stuff in the recycling bin? Plus, learn about all the other new and innovative projects KKB is involved with.

Conservation on Tap is a monthly series hosted by Albright Grove Brewing Co. to benefit Discover Life in America, Great Smoky Mountain National Park’s biological science and conservation partner.

Great Smokies Eco-Adventure: Oct 27-29
2024-10-27 12:00 - 2024-10-29 16:00
Mark your calendar for an immersive Smokies experience like none other! Spend your days exploring the wilds of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and your nights glamorously camping off the grid. DLiA and partner A Walk in the Woods bring you a 3-day, 2-night adventure, with expert-led nature hikes, camping in a luxurious off-grid setting, mouth-watering, local food and drink, and much more. All proceeds from this fundraising event will help DLiA discover and conserve the rich biodiversity of the Smokies.

A Walk in the Woods has generously provided access to Camp Atagahi, their staff, and their Smokies expertise to make this event really shine!

DLiA’s Will, Jaimie, and Todd will be your guides for the duration of the Eco-Adventure. They’re excited to be your gracious hosts and share their expert knowledge of the natural and cultural history of the Smokies!

The Great Smokies Eco-Adventure is a truly unique experience!

🍁 Guided nature hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including a section of the famous Appalachian Trail (AT).

🔦 Guided night hike to look for nocturnal creatures using a bat detector and UV flashlights.

🔥 Evening campfires to share stories and s’mores.

🍴 Locally-sourced meals (vegan and gluten-free alternatives available) signature cocktails, mocktails, beer and wine included.

⛺ Cozy camping accommodations, including spacious tents with cots and mattresses and a bath house with hot showers and flush toilets.

Purchase Tickets

Yo

Founded in 2010, Ole Smoky Distillery is the leading craft distiller in the U.S. and the first federally licensed distillery in the history of East Tennessee. At the fall Eco-Adventure, the company will provide Harvest Ginger signature cocktails featuring its award-winning Apple Pie Moonshine as well as a non-alcoholic mocktailoption. Learn more at olesmoky.com

Camp Atagahi

The Great Smokies Eco-Adventure is co-hosted by Discover Life in America and A Walk in the Woods. As an award-winning, locally owned and operated tour guide company, A Walk in the Woods has been helping people get the most out of their Smoky Mountains experience for over 23 years, serving over 100,000 visitors along the way!

All meals are included with your ticket price, prepared on site with local produce, cheeses, and other ingredients. Vegan and vegetarian options are available. Beer and wine are also provided as well as soft drinks of your choice. (We’ll inquire about your dietary restrictions and beverage choices close to the event.)Guided hikes in the Smokies

Camp Atagahi is A Walk in the Woods’ premiere off-grid camping facility located in a small valley just north of the National Park boundary between Pitman Center and Cosby, Tennessee. It features a well-stocked off-grid commercial kitchen and excellent bathroom facility with running water, flush toilets, and hot showers. Guests are lulled to sleep at night by the babbling creek that flows through camp. Tents are spacious, mounted on wooden platforms, and feature a covered “front porch” area where you can sit and enjoy a glass of wine, listening to the sounds of nature.

Guided Hikes in the Smokies

The Fall Smokies Eco-Adventure features guided hikes during peak leaf foliage season in Great Smoky Mountains National Park (a short drive from Camp Atagahi). We’ll keep it slow and easy-going, with lots of stops to admire and talk about the Smokies’ incredible biodiversity, including native trees, pollinating insects, birds, and more. We’ll also share our expert knowledge of the cultural history of the landscape.

Our one-of-a-kind hikes will leave you with a new appreciation for the incredible variety of life in the Smokies region and they’re really fun, too!

Eco-Adventure Itinerary

Sunday, October 27: Guests will meet at the DLiA office at noon and enjoy light snacks and introductions. We’ll go on guided hike led by DLiA staff on the Twin Creeks Trail (Total trail mileage under 2 miles) In the late afternoon, we’ll get load up our gear and get transported to A Walk in the Woods’ private off-grid camp located near Cosby and settle into our not-too-rustic glamping accommodations. We’ll have drinks and a wholesome dinner and finish off with s’mores around a campfire.

Monday, October 28: We’ll have locally-sourced coffee and a hot breakfast at camp and pack sack lunches. We’ll then head to the Greenbrier area in GSMNP on our hike to Fern Branch Falls on the Porter’s Creek trail. This hike is 4 miles round-trip and is considered moderate. We’ll arrive back at camp by late afternoon and enjoy southern fixins’ around the campfire. If you’re up for it, we’ll go for a night hike at the camp to look for nocturnal critters.

Tuesday, October 29: We’ll start with a hot breakfast, pack sack lunches, and pack up our gear. If the conditions and views are favorable, we head up to the high elevations in the park for a hike on the infamous Appalachian Trail (AT). We’ll finish up around 4 pm. We’ll say our goodbyes and guests will depart.

Please note: The itinerary may change due to weather conditions, park closures or at the discretion of DLIA.

Purchase Tickets

Tickets: $950 per person

Your ticket purchase supports Discover Life in America (a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization), helping us continue our work as a partner of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Tickets are $950 per person, which includes accommodations, food and alcohol, as well as expert-guided nature hikes.

Pricing is based on double occupancy of tents, so if you are traveling alone, you may be assigned to share a tent with someone of the same gender.

REGISTRATION CLOSES: Oct 1st, 2024

CANCELLATION POLICY: Full payment is due upon ticket purchase. If you decide to cancel your spot, we will refund your ticket only if we are able to sell your ticket. No refunds will be given after registration closes on October 1.

What will your ticket purchase support

Biodiversity research in the Smokies

Our biology interships…

…and photo/videography internships

Biodiversity education

Public engagement through community science

Conservation of creatures great and small in the Smokies

Specifically, you’ll help support

Research with the All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory, aimed at cataloging, understanding, and ultimately conserving the 21,000+ species that call the Smokies home.

our world-class summer internship program, where we train the next generation of scientists and nature advocates through an immersive experience in the Smokies.

our educational programming in and around Great Smoky Mountains NP, fostering nature literacy among our community ( iScience and Smokies Most Wanted)

and much more!

ELECTRICITY AND CELL SERVICE: There is no electricity at Camp Atagahi other than a battery pack that you may use to charge your phone. There is little to no cell reception at the Camp and in the National Park. Please plan accordingly. If you use a CPAP machine to sleep, you may consider purchasing an appropriate battery pack to power that device during the event.

FAQs

Q. What is the expected weather?

October in the Smokies is usually mild, with daytime temperatures reaching the 50s and 60s, and nighttime sometimes approaching the freezing mark. It’s best to wear layers that you can shed if it’s warm or pile on for those cool nights. But this of course varies from year to year. The region does receive lots of rain (which fuels the growth of all those wildflowers), so be sure to pack a rain jacket or poncho.

Q. How many people will be in attendance?

Space is limited to 15 attendees at the eco-camp where we’ll be staying (2 people per tent with 10 tents). This is a nice group size that permits lots of one-on-one interaction with your guides.

Q. If don’t consider myself a serious hiker, will I be able to keep up?

Our hikes are very much tailored to the abilities and interests of the group and generally follow a leisurely pace as we stop and look at insects, mushrooms, and lots of other sights to see. As long as you are able to walk around 4 miles over several hours, you should be fine.

Q. If I come to the Eco-Adventure alone, will I have to share a tent?

The ticket price for this event is based on double occupancy, so expect that singletons may be paired with another same-gender singleton. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet a fellow nature lover and future friend!

Q. What is included in the ticket price?

The ticket price includes all accommodations, food (including vegetarian and vegan options), alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and expert-led hikes from noon Sunday through Tuesday afternoon.

Q. What do I need to bring?

Please bring a sleeping bag, towel, day pack and wear sturdy hiking shoes, rain gear and cool weather clothing. Tents, cots, sleeping pads, and other basics are all provided. You can find a full list of required and recommended items above on this page. Attendees will receive additional information via email prior to the event.

Q. Will there be electricity or cell service at the camp?

Camp Atagahi does not have grid electricity and there is little to no cell signal in the area. We will provide a battery back that you can use to charge your cell phone and other small electronics. Though, The Eco-Adventure is an opportunity to escape from the busy world and enjoy some screen-free time in nature!

Q. If I have any other questions, who should I contact?

Please contact DLiA’s Biodiversity Program Specialist, Jaimie Matzko, at jaimie@dlia.org and she’ll be happy to answer your questions about the Eco-Adventure or visit dlia.org.

Conservation on Tap
2024-11-13 19:00 - 20:30 | Albright Grove Brewing Company, 2924 Sutherland Ave, Knoxville, Tennessee, 37919
Conservation on TapWednesday, November 13 at 7pmat Albright Brewing Company

Across North America, bird populations have declined by 2.9 billion since 1970. Cities, however, can play a vital role in reversing this trend by creating safer, healthier environments for birds.

Our monthly speaker, Nasyr Bey, is a Conservation and Policy Fellow and Nashville’s Urban Bird Treaty City Coordinator. Hear about how this Nature Conservancy partner program is reducing urban hazards and engaging the community in helping out our feathered friends.

SPECIAL NOTE: Albright Grove Brewing is now serving delicious farm-to-table food! Pizza, smash burgers, hot legs, mushroom Philly, fish & chips, and more.

Conservation on Tap is a monthly series hosted by Albright Grove Brewing Co. to benefit Discover Life in America, Great Smoky Mountain National Park’s biological science and conservation partner.

Fireflies at Norton Creek 2025
2025-06-05 19:00 - 22:30
WHAT TO EXPECT //WAITLIST // FAQs

Watch the Smokies’ magical fireflies in style! Our annual firefly event is a one-of-a-kind viewing experience. From the comfort of a luxurious private reserve, enjoy food and drink surrounded by gorgeous natural scenery, and witness an incredible display of synchronous and blue ghost fireflies (and other glowing critters) guided by our knowledgeable staff. Four nights to choose from. This is an evening you won’t forget! All proceeds help us at Discover Life in America carry out our mission to understand and conserve the diversity of life in the Smokies.

All proceeds from this event support DLiA and our work in Great Smoky Mountains National Park (learn more).

NOTE: This is NOT the synchronous firefly lottery at Elkmont in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is a private fundraising event located on private land adjacent to the park.

Tickets

Tickets for the event are $300 per person.

Tickets are open to anyone 10 years of age or older (children under 10 are not allowed at this event). Each ticket is for a single night of the event.

Four nights to choose from!

Thursday, June 5 SOLD OUT!

Friday, June 6 SOLD OUT!

Saturday, June 7 SOLD OUT!

Sunday, June 8 SOLD OUT!

Join Waitlist

What to expect

Location: Norton Creek Preserve, a 2,000-acre tract adjacent to Great Smoky Mountains NP, near Gatlinburg, TN. Detailed directions will be sent to ticketholders before the event.

Catering provided by the Dollywood Parks and Resorts Culinary Team.

Drinks are included: local beer as well as wine, sodas, and tea

Includes expert-guided firefly viewing: we’ll point out different firefly species and answer your firefly questions

Light, uphill walking will be involved on paved and gravel surfaces

Rain or shine: we’ll hold the event even if rain is forecast (see FAQs)

No pets allowed

Open to kids 10 and up (ticket required for each child)

More information: ticketholders will receive directions and details via email in mid-May

FAQs: read our list of frequently asked questions for more information

THANK YOU TO OUR CORPORATE SPONSORS

for your support of our work in discovering, understanding and conserving biodiversity in the Smokies and beyond.

gorgeous venue

Hemlock House

Hors d’oeuvres by Whole Earth Grocery //Luca Pfeiffer

//Luca Pfeiffer

Incredible interior //Luca Pfeiffer

Glow-in-the-dark firefly blankets for sale! //Luca Pfeiffer

A magnificent ravine for fireflies

//Luca Pfeiffer

Fireflies, galore!

Synchronous firefly //Abbott Nature

Light trails of blue ghosts //Abbott Nature

Blue ghost male //Abbott Nature

Blue ghost female //Abbott Nature

Firefly larva //Abbott Nature

Blue glow of fungus gnats //Luca Pfeiffer

Synchronous fireflies’ woodland display //Abbott Nature

What people love about our event

Guided firefly viewing. Our knowledgeable staff will point out different firefly species to you and can tell you what makes each one special.

It’s private. This event is held on private land and we only host around 50 guests per night. Each guest can witness the magic on their own without the crowds.

The venue is magnificent! You’ll love exploring the guest house where we start our event and the gorgeous surrounding property nestled in the Smoky Mountains.

It’s dark. We try to keep things very dark so your eyes can adjust, allowing you to see the wonderful bioluminescence around you. (Don’t worry, we’ve got lights if you need them.)

Cancellation policy

Full payment is due at checkout. We will be happy to refund your payment if and only if we are able to fill your slot, up until May 22, 2025. After that date, no refunds will be given.

FAQs

Q. Is this event related to the synchronous firefly lottery in Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

A. Nope. Discover Life in America is a non-profit partner of the Park; however, this is a private fundraising event that is not associated with the Park’s lottery for synchronous firefly viewing at Elkmont. That is a totally separate event and we cannot answer questions about the lottery, dates for the lottery, or anything else related to it. Information about the lottery can be found at https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/nature/fireflies.htm.

Q. $300 per person seems expensive. Is this event really worth it?

A. We certainly think so! You can expect a lot of value for the ticket price AND you’re supporting Discover Life in America and our important work in the Smokies! Catering provided by the Dollywood Parks and Resorts Culinary Team and a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks will be provided. You’ll get to explore the private venue, which is not open to the public. It’s a gorgeous house made from rough-hewn hemlocks and decorated with birch bark that’s set on a pastoral hilltop right next to the national park. You’ll have one-on-one time with Will Kuhn, our resident entomologist, who will tell you more than you ever wanted to know about the 19 species of fireflies that live in the Smokies. And of course you’ll get to see the magical display of the synchronous fireflies, but not among a crowd in the national park. Rather, you’ll see them in a leisurely, small-group setting with guides to point them out and answer all your questions. We are confident that you’ll enjoy yourself and learn something new!

Q. How do you know the synchronous fireflies will be active?

A. Synchronous fireflies in the Smokies region typically reach their peak activity around the end of May to middle of June; however, this can vary from year to year based on temperature and weather. The Park uses temperature data to plan the dates of their lottery system, typically releasing those dates around late April. We, however, must book the venue for our Fireflies Event a year in advance, so we carefully select a date that falls within the peak season for synchronous firefly activity from previous years. In the nine years that we’ve been doing this event, we’ve never been disappointed.

Q. I can’t find the exact location of this event on your website. Why is that?

A. As the synchronous fireflies have become extremely popular in the Smokies, we don’t post our event location for fear that the public will trespass on the private property of our generous hosts and trample the pristine firefly habitat. Rest assured though: we will contact all ticket holders with detailed directions to the event and other information that you’ll need to know for this once-in-a-lifetime evening.

Q. Where should I stay during the event?

A. Lodging is not included as part of the Fireflies Event; but there are lots of hotel options in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. These are the two closest large communities to the venue and they’re about equal distance from the venue. There are also lots of cabins and small rental properties along “The Spur” (The Spur is a section of the Foothills Parkway connecting Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg; a.k.a. HWY 441).

Q. Are kids allowed at this event?

A. Children 10 years of age or older may attend this event with ticket purchase. Children under 10 years of age are not allowed to attend this event.

Q. Will the event be canceled if rain is in forecast?

A. Nope. The Smokies region gets lots of rain (one of the reasons it’s so rich in fireflies) but it has not affected our firefly viewing. The first part of the event takes places inside, under cover, and the viewing is outside under decent canopy cover. We highly recommend that you bring a light rain jacket in case we get a little rain during viewing. Rain or shine, it’s going to be great!

Q. In the description for this event, you mention “other glowing critters.” What do you mean?

A. There is a veritable menagerie of glowing critters to see at the Fireflies Event! Apart from synchronous fireflies (Photinus carolinus) and blue ghost fireflies (Phausis reticulata), we’ve seen railroad worms (Phengodes spp.), which are another type of beetle with glowing larvae and adult females, and also fungus gnat larvae (a.k.a. foxfire flies, Orfelia fultoni), which glow faintly blue from seeps on the hillside. We will see some of the region’s 9 other glowing firefly species, too, as we wait for the synchronous and blue ghost fireflies to start their show. We usually find the glowing larvae of a number of firefly species, as well. So much bioluminescence to see and we’ll point glowers out to you as we encounter them!

Q. Other questions?

A. Please carefully read our FAQ for answers to common questions, then ask Todd if you still need help: todd@dlia.org or (865)-430-4757.

Fireflies at Norton Creek 2025
2025-06-06 19:00 - 22:30
WHAT TO EXPECT // WAITLIST // FAQs

Watch the Smokies’ magical fireflies in style! Our annual firefly event is a one-of-a-kind viewing experience. From the comfort of a luxurious private reserve, enjoy food and drink surrounded by gorgeous natural scenery, and witness an incredible display of synchronous and blue ghost fireflies (and other glowing critters) guided by our knowledgeable staff. Four nights to choose from. This is an evening you won’t forget! All proceeds help us at Discover Life in America carry out our mission to understand and conserve the diversity of life in the Smokies.

All proceeds from this event support DLiA and our work in Great Smoky Mountains National Park (learn more).

NOTE: This is NOT the synchronous firefly lottery at Elkmont in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is a private fundraising event located on private land adjacent to the park.

Four nights to choose from!

Thursday, June 5 SOLD OUT!

Friday, June 6 SOLD OUT!

Saturday, June 7 SOLD OUT!

Sunday, June 8 SOLD OUT!

Join Waitlist

Tickets

Tickets for the event are $300 per person.

Tickets are open to anyone 10 years of age or older (children under 10 are not allowed at this event). Each ticket is for a single night of the event.

What to expect

Location: Norton Creek Preserve, a 2,000 acre tract adjacent to Great Smoky Mountains NP, near Gatlinburg, TN. Detailed directions will be sent to ticketholders before the event.

Catering provided by the Dollywood Parks and Resorts Culinary Team.

Drinks are included: local beer as well as wine, sodas, and tea

Includes expert-guided firefly viewing: we’ll point out different firefly species and answer your firefly questions

Light, uphill walking will be involved on paved and gravel surfaces

Rain or shine: we’ll hold the event even if rain is forecast (see FAQs)

No pets allowed

Open to kids 10 and up (ticket required for each child)

More information: ticketholders will receive directions and details via email in mid-May

FAQs: read our list of frequently asked questions for more information

THANK YOU TO OUR CORPORATE SPONSORS

for your support of our work in discovering, understanding and conserving biodiversity in the Smokies and beyond.

gorgeous venue

Hemlock House

Hors d’oeuvres by Whole Earth Grocery //Luca Pfeiffer

//Luca Pfeiffer

Incredible interior //Luca Pfeiffer

Glow-in-the-dark firefly blankets for sale! //Luca Pfeiffer

A magnificent ravine for fireflies

//Luca Pfeiffer

Fireflies, galore!

Synchronous firefly //Abbott Nature

Light trails of blue ghosts //Abbott Nature

Blue ghost male //Abbott Nature

Blue ghost female //Abbott Nature

Firefly larva //Abbott Nature

Blue glow of fungus gnats //Luca Pfeiffer

Synchronous fireflies’ woodland display //Abbott Nature

What people love about our event

Guided firefly viewing. Our knowledgeable staff will point out different firefly species to you and can tell you what makes each one special.

It’s private. This event is held on private land and we only host around 50 guests per night. Each guest can witness the magic on their own without the crowds.

The venue is magnificent! You’ll love exploring the guest house where we start our event and the gorgeous surrounding property nestled in the Smoky Mountains.

It’s dark. We try to keep things very dark so your eyes can adjust, allowing you to see the wonderful bioluminescence around you. (Don’t worry, we’ve got lights if you need them.)

Cancellation policy

Full payment is due at checkout. We will be happy to refund your payment if and only if we are able to fill your slot, up until May 22, 2025. After that date, no refunds will be given.

FAQs

Q. Is this event related to the synchronous firefly lottery in Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

A. Nope. Discover Life in America is a non-profit partner of the Park; however, this is a private fundraising event that is not associated with the Park’s lottery for synchronous firefly viewing at Elkmont. That is a totally separate event and we cannot answer questions about the lottery, dates for the lottery, or anything else related to it. Information about the lottery can be found at https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/nature/fireflies.htm.

Q. $300 per person seems expensive. Is this event really worth it?

A. We certainly think so! You can expect a lot of value for the ticket price AND you’re supporting Discover Life in America and our important work in the Smokies! Catering provided by the Dollywood Parks and Resorts Culinary Team and a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks will be provided. You’ll get to explore the private venue, which is not open to the public. It’s a gorgeous house made from rough-hewn hemlocks and decorated with birch bark that’s set on a pastoral hilltop right next to the national park. You’ll have one-on-one time with Will Kuhn, our resident entomologist, who will tell you more than you ever wanted to know about the 19 species of fireflies that live in the Smokies. And of course you’ll get to see the magical display of the synchronous fireflies, but not among a crowd in the national park. Rather, you’ll see them in a leisurely, small-group setting with guides to point them out and answer all your questions. We are confident that you’ll enjoy yourself and learn something new!

Q. How do you know the synchronous fireflies will be active?

A. Synchronous fireflies in the Smokies region typically reach their peak activity around the end of May to middle of June; however, this can vary from year to year based on temperature and weather. The Park uses temperature data to plan the dates of their lottery system, typically releasing those dates around late April. We, however, must book the venue for our Fireflies Event a year in advance, so we carefully select a date that falls within the peak season for synchronous firefly activity from previous years. In the nine years that we’ve been doing this event, we’ve never been disappointed.

Q. I can’t find the exact location of this event on your website. Why is that?

A. As the synchronous fireflies have become extremely popular in the Smokies, we don’t post our event location for fear that the public will trespass on the private property of our generous hosts and trample the pristine firefly habitat. Rest assured though: we will contact all ticket holders with detailed directions to the event and other information that you’ll need to know for this once-in-a-lifetime evening.

Q. Where should I stay during the event?

A. Lodging is not included as part of the Fireflies Event; but there are lots of hotel options in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. These are the two closest large communities to the venue and they’re about equal distance from the venue. There are also lots of cabins and small rental properties along “The Spur” (The Spur is a section of the Foothills Parkway connecting Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg; a.k.a. HWY 441).

Q. Are kids allowed at this event?

A. Children 10 years of age or older may attend this event with ticket purchase. Children under 10 years of age are not allowed to attend this event.

Q. Will the event be canceled if rain is in forecast?

A. Nope. The Smokies region gets lots of rain (one of the reasons it’s so rich in fireflies) but it has not affected our firefly viewing. The first part of the event takes places inside, under cover, and the viewing is outside under decent canopy cover. We highly recommend that you bring a light rain jacket in case we get a little rain during viewing. Rain or shine, it’s going to be great!

Q. In the description for this event, you mention “other glowing critters.” What do you mean?

A. There is a veritable menagerie of glowing critters to see at the Fireflies Event! Apart from synchronous fireflies (Photinus carolinus) and blue ghost fireflies (Phausis reticulata), we’ve seen railroad worms (Phengodes spp.), which are another type of beetle with glowing larvae and adult females, and also fungus gnat larvae (a.k.a. foxfire flies, Orfelia fultoni), which glow faintly blue from seeps on the hillside. We will see some of the region’s 9 other glowing firefly species, too, as we wait for the synchronous and blue ghost fireflies to start their show. We usually find the glowing larvae of a number of firefly species, as well. So much bioluminescence to see and we’ll point glowers out to you as we encounter them!

Q. Other questions?

A. Please carefully read our FAQ for answers to common questions, then ask Todd if you still need help: todd@dlia.org or (865)-430-4757.
