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Nighttime Forest and Fireflies Hike
Explore Pisgah National Forest after dark on a guided, small-group hike to witness the rare Blue Ghost Firefly
Location:
Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina
Fly In/Out Location: Asheville Regional Airport (AVL)
2026 Dates:
Offered nightly during peak firefly season: May 21st – June 1st | June 22nd - 30th
Cost:
$160 per person
Overview
Join a guided nighttime hike through Pisgah National Forest to see the elusive Blue Ghost Firefly! Led by a knowledgeable local guide passionate about conserving the species unique to the region. Groups are limited to six hikers for an intimate experience. Transportation from Asheville, snacks, red-light headlamps. All guides are trained in first aid and wilderness safety.
Learn about scholarship opportunities
Highlights
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Intimate small groups: 6 guests maximum
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Expert-led: Local guides share firefly science, forest ecology, and nocturnal wildlife
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Moderate 2–3 mile hike: forested trails with uneven terrain after dark
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All gear provided: red-light headlamps, snacks, water, trekking poles, and round-trip transport from Asheville
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Prime firefly season: late May through July in Pisgah National Forest
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4-hour experience: includes transportation, guided hike, and firefly viewing
Total Mileage:
2-3 Miles
Duration:
4 Hours (Includes drive time)
Max Group Size:
6 People
private large groups can be requested here
Transportation Included?
Yes! Round-trip from downtown Asheville.
Strenuous Level:
Moderate
uneven terrain in the dark
Minimum Age:
13 Years Old
Tendency for Breaks:
Occasional or as needed.
Pace:
Relaxed/Moderate
Who is this for?
Nature enthusiasts wanting to learn about Southern Appalachian flora, fauna, and local ecosystems.
Topics Covered:
Nocturnal wildlife, firefly behavior, forest ecology, local plants, and conservation efforts in Western North Carolina.
Experience needed?
Little to none.
What's Included:
Professional guiding services from a Blue Ridge Hiking Company, round-trip transportation from downtown Asheville, 1-2 mile guided hike, light snacks and water, red-light headlamps, optional trekking poles and daypacks. All guides are certified in wilderness first aid.
What's Not Included:
Personal gear beyond what is provided, meals, gratuities.
FEATURED GUIDEs:
Elijah "Eli" Adams
Hiking Guide with Blue Ridge Hiking Company
A former kayak guide turned passionate hiker, Eli is a "first-gen outdoors woman" who discovered her love for nature as an adult. For the past five years, she's studied local fauna and flora near Asheville, NC with a particular focus on native fungi. Eli leads community hikes in partnership with local businesses, sharing her extensive knowledge of the Southern Appalachians through engaging storytelling and naturalist interpretation. Her deep love for the outdoors shines through on every hike, especially when she introduces others to her favorite hidden gems throughout Pisgah National Forest. When not on the trail, Eli enjoys creating art and practicing Spanish. She's committed to fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world in everyone who joins her adventures.
Lindsey Barr
Hiking Guide with Blue Ridge Hiking Company
Lindsey grew up in central North Carolina, where she developed a love for science and the outdoors. She was introduced to camping and hiking at a young age through Girl Scouts, and went on to earn a Girl Scout Gold Award. In 2012, Lindsey left her aerospace engineering career behind to follow her dream of helping to introduce others to the outdoors in a welcoming and empowering way. When she isn't at work, you can find them exploring area trails and waterways, enjoying Asheville's live music scene, or in their art studio. In addition to hiking and backpacking, she enjoys paddling, rock climbing, fly fishing, knitting, and stained glass.
Itinerary:
7:00 PM – Meet in Downtown Asheville.
7:15 PM – Depart for trailhead.
8:15 PM – Night hike & firefly viewing.
10:30 PM – Depart from trailhead and return to Downtown Asheville.
Cancellation Policy: We conduct hikes in various weather conditions, with the exception of severe weather events (flooding, lightning, ice), in which case we offer the option to reschedule or receive a full refund. Our standard policy includes a 15% non-refundable administrative fee. We extend one complimentary rescheduling opportunity. Cancellations submitted more than seven days in advance receive a refund less the 15% fee. Cancellations within seven days qualify for a 50% refund. For cancellations within 48 hours, refunds are issued only in the event of severe weather-related cancellations by our team.
Trip Partnership:
This adventure is in partnership with Blue Ridge Hiking Company, Asheville's original premier guide service. This gives us access to special use permits for trails in Pisgah National Forest, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and other protected areas. When you hike with us, you support local guides, small businesses, and conservation partners protecting Western North Carolina's wild spaces.
Learn more about the trip location here
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