Guided Blue Ghost Firefly Night Tour

2026 Blue Ghost Firefly Tour registration is open! Choose a 3 hour nighttime adventure in the forest (more about this below) or keep the glow going and relax into the overnight retreat option, tucking in to a cozy historic cabin just steps away from the firefly habitat!

Highlights:

1. 3 Hour Guided Night Hike
2. ~1 mile along an easy trail
3. Private, quiet, off the beaten path
4. Group size limited to 15-20 for a more intimate experience
5. Special access to private conservation land - escape the crowds!
6. An adventure rooted in mindfulness to support you in fully engaging with the magic
7. Beginner friendly - no hiking experience required
8. Our top secret location is in Mills River, NC

Immerse yourself in the magic and wonders within the Blue Ridge Mountains. From sunset and starry skies to fireflies, we’ll marvel at Mother Nature’s light show as we explore the forest at night, hoping to encounter the elusive Blue Ghost firefly species!

Our experience begins before the fireflies emerge. As twilight falls, you’ll be gently guided through a mindfulness-based meander deeper into the forest, designed to help you slow down, tune in, and awaken your senses to the night around you while your eyes adjust to the growing darkness.

Rather than rushing to “see something,” we invite you to soften into the experience slowly – to feel it. The rhythm of your breath, the texture of the earth beneath your feet, the hush of dusk settling over the forest. And then, as your awareness heightens and your pace slows, we hope to experience the emerging of the Blue Ghosts, one by one, a quiet and surreal unfolding of magic.

Quiet your mind and awaken your senses as we sink into the magic of this special experience. Just bring an open heart, adventurous spirit and be yourself. All is welcome in the forest, and no hiking experience necessary.

This special offering takes place on only 9 evenings this year with group sizes limited to 15 for a more intimate experience. 2026 Dates: May 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16

Location: this magical Blue Ghost Firefly night hike will take place on a peaceful, private property about 45 mins from downtown Asheville in the Mills River area. We’re so excited to introduce this special place to you, a beautiful woodland retreat that has been set aside in a conservation trust. A portion of your registration fee goes directly towards continuing to protect and maintain this incredible environment. To protect the fragile environment and the elusive fireflies we hope to visit, we release the exact location to registered guests only.

Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Mills River.