Great Smoky Mountains National Park Weather in December
December in Great Smoky Mountains National Park brings low temperatures around 9°C (48°F) during the day, dropping to -2°C (28°F) at night, with quite a bit of snow/rainfall expected, averaging around 203 mm (8 in) for the month.
Rainfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park in December
Typically, about 16 days will experience snow/rainfall, with an average of 203 mm (8 in) for the month. This is a wet month with frequent and often heavy showers. Both the number of rain days and the total rainfall are high.
Temperature in Great Smoky Mountains National Park in December
In December, Great Smoky Mountains National Park sees low temperatures, with highs of 9°C (48°F). Nights drop to around -2°C (28°F). This month falls in the winter season. It stays cool throughout the day, so warm layers are a good idea from morning to evening. With lows of -2°C (28°F), nights are freezing. Packing a spare blanket is worth considering if you're staying somewhere that might not be fully heated.
Sunshine in Great Smoky Mountains National Park in December
The area enjoys a balanced 125 hours of sunlight, ensuring it's neither too overcast nor too sunny.December in Great Smoky Mountains National Park has its charm, but if you're looking for destinations with pleasant temperatures and sunny skies, our weather planner can help you explore other options in the world.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our Great Smoky Mountains National Park's climate page.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Temperature in December
Min Temperature
-2°C (28°F)
Max Temperature
9°C (48°F)
Chance of Rain
52%
Precipitation
203 mm (8 in)
Rainy days
16 days
Humidity
73% *
Sunshine
125 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
40% *
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Great Smoky Mountains National Park typically stay consistent throughout December, with daily highs averaging around 9°C (48°F). Nights are cold, with lows typically ranging from -1°C (30°F) to 2°C (36°F).
Average temperatures in December
Daily Historical Precipitation
50-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in December
Historical weather for Great Smoky Mountains National Park in December
Browse day-by-day weather records for Great Smoky Mountains National Park spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park historical weather extremes in December
The extremes listed below come from historical weather data collected in Great Smoky Mountains National Park from 1976 through 2025.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park recorded its highest December temperature of 27°C (81°F) on December 4, 1982.
- The wettest December day on record brought 132 mm (5.2 in) of precipitation to Great Smoky Mountains National Park (December 4, 1993).
Best Places in the United States of America in December
Find out more about the weather in the United States of America and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of the United States of America in December →
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What to Wear in Great Smoky Mountains National Park in December
Cold weather calls for smart layering in December. A thermal base layer makes a huge difference in staying warm. Add a wool sweater or fleece, then a wind-resistant outer jacket. Heavy rain is guaranteed, please bring a good poncho and waterproof everything! It won't hurt to bring your sunglasses along, as you'll see some sunny periods.What To Do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park in December
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our Great Smoky Mountains National Park's climate page.
