The Great Smoky Mountains National Park hosted the 2025 firefly viewing event at Elkmont May 29-June 5. Only 960 total vehicle passes were awarded through the lottery this year.

More than 5,000 of Roth’s images remain preserved at the University of Tennessee archives, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park holds about 100 more.

The biggest of the elk roaming Great Smoky Mountains National Park can weigh up to 900 pounds, yet they’re masters at hiding when the mood strikes. Proof of their ability was shared Aug. 7 on ...