Spring
Spring in the Smokies kicks off as winter fades and the mountains come alive with lush greenery and vibrant wildflowers. While early spring can still be a bit chilly—lows typically in the 40s and 50s—temperatures steadily warm up, with daytime highs reaching the 60s and 70s.
It’s a great time to explore! The mild weather makes it perfect for hiking the scenic trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, especially the ones bursting with wildflowers. Or if you’re in the mood for something more laid-back, a stroll through downtown Gatlinburg or along the Parkway in Pigeon Forge offer plenty of great spots to eat, shop, and catch local events.
Summer
Looking for the perfect summer escape? The Great Smoky Mountains have you covered. East Tennessee gets all four seasons, but summers here are usually pretty comfortable—highs typically stay in the upper 80s, with lows in the mid-60s.
It’s the ideal time to hit the trails, take in those mountain views, or dive into an adventure like white water rafting. Just keep in mind—if you’re heading up into the higher elevations, temps can drop 10 to 20 degrees, so it’s smart to pack a light jacket or layer up.
Fall
Fall in the Smokies is a showstopper, drawing visitors from near and far to catch the stunning display of changing leaves. Each year, a Fall Foliage Report is released to help guests time their visit just right to catch peak colors.
The season kicks off on the warmer side, with highs in the 80s and lows in the 50s, but as it moves toward November, things cool down quite a bit—expect highs in the mid-50s and lows dipping into the 30s. And in those higher elevations, don’t be surprised if you catch a dusting of early snow as the seasons shift.
Winter
Winter draws in plenty of visitors to the Smokies—and it’s easy to see why. From skiing and snowboarding to taking in the snow-covered mountain views and enjoying the festive vibe in downtown Gatlinburg, there’s no shortage of winter fun.
That said, winter weather in the area can be pretty unpredictable. While average highs tend to sit in the 30s and 40s, and lows in the 20s to 30s, it’s not uncommon for temps to swing up into the 60s or drop into the teens.
If you’re heading into the national park, keep in mind that weather can vary a lot between lower and higher elevations. Snow is especially common in the higher elevations during January and February, so be sure to check the forecast before heading out on any adventures.
