Adventure Collective
Nighttime Wilderness Adventures with Smoky Mountain Guides - Gatlinburg, TN

Nighttime Wilderness Adventures with Smoky Mountain Guides

Gatlinburgeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1.5–2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for families and individuals of moderate fitness comfortable with short, steady walking on uneven terrain.

Overview

Step into the Smokies’ nocturnal side with Smoky Mountain Guides’ evening adventure. Discover fireflies, salamanders, and peaceful forest trails under a starlit sky.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

A Smoky Mountain summer night

A magical night with lightning bugs, short walks and more.

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Adventure Photos

A Smoky Mountain summer night photo 1

About This Adventure

Discover the enchanting Smokies after dark on a guided adventure! Experience the magic of the nocturnal world, from synchronized fireflies to charming salamanders. Enjoy short hikes in a serene wilderness setting, perfect for families and individuals seeking unforgettable memories. Join a small group for a unique and thrilling evening!

Come experience the Smokies beyond the typical day in the mountains! There is a whole other world that awakens after the sun hides behind the high ridges and the stars come out. We will have the unique opportunity to spy the creatures of the nocturnal realm! We will have a wonderful evening with after dark magic that the nocturnal realm has to offer! including a hunt for the world renown synchronized firefly's, the mystical blue ghost fireflies, cute salamanders and so much more! We will have great fun and a rare and wondrous adventure with the comfort of a knowledgeable guide taking care of logistics for you! Our goal is to create a unique experience by meeting your guides at an undisclosed meetup location approximately 15 minutes from Downtown Gatlinburg, follow them for another 15 minutes to a peaceful wilderness setting nestled inside National Park. From here, we will embark in short walks and experiences that families and individuals will dream about for years to come. This experience is appropriate for youth 9yr old and up please. Group size will not exceed 15 participants.


Duration

3-4 Hours


Additional Information

  • rated easy
  • should feel comfortable hiking for approximately 20-45 minutes after dark on natural surfaces
  • closed toed shoes required
  • proper clothing encouraged

Detailed directions will be included in your confirmation email.

Adventure Tips

Bring a red-light headlamp

Red light is less disruptive to wildlife and preserves night vision during evening hikes.

Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes

Trails may be uneven and slick from evening dew; solid footwear helps prevent slips.

Insect repellent recommended

Mosquitoes and other insects are active at night; a natural repellent keeps discomfort low without harming wildlife.

Stay close to your guide

Small groups and guided walks ensure safety and enhance sightings in the dark forest setting.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • North American fireflies (Photinus carolinus)
  • Eastern red-backed salamanders

History

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park was established in 1934 and preserves one of the last old-growth temperate forests in the eastern U.S.

Conservation

Smoky Mountain Guides emphasizes low-impact practices, educating visitors on minimizing disruption to nocturnal habitats.

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Adventure Hotspots in Gatlinburg, TN

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Red-light headlamp

Essential

Preserves night vision and minimizes disturbance to nocturnal wildlife.

summer specific

Insect repellent

Essential

Keeps mosquitoes and biting insects at bay during humid evenings.

summer specific

Layered clothing

Essential

Adjust to fluctuating temperatures as evenings can cool rapidly.

spring specific

Sturdy hiking shoes

Essential

Provides grip and through-protection on uneven, often damp trails.