The blue ghost firefly, often associated with the Great Smoky Mountains, can be found right here at Bender Mountain. The mature forest and thick leaf litter provide an ideal habitat for this mysterious species. Their name comes from their long-lasting glow, which can remain illuminated for up to a minute at a time, appearing to cast an eerie spotlight across the forest floor.
Due to limited space, this is a members-only hike. The outing will be scheduled for optimal conditions based on moonlight and weather. Please register online to receive notifications for the exact date and location.
Participants should bring a red headlamp or flashlight to preserve night vision, along with sturdy shoes or boots and a hiking stick for navigating steep trails in the dark. Fireflies typically begin appearing around 10:00 p.m.