Yosemite National Park is definitely worth a visit
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Great Smoky Mountains National Park Weather in January
January in Great Smoky Mountains National Park typically sees daytime highs of 6°C (43°F) and nighttime lows of -6°C (21°F). Rainfall is also possible this month, so it's worth packing an umbrella. It falls within the winter season.
Rainfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park in January
Typically around 15 days of snow/rainfall are expected, averaging 174 mm (6.9 in) for the month. This month brings frequent, heavy showers. Both the number of wet days and the rainfall totals are on the high side.
Temperature in Great Smoky Mountains National Park in January
January in Great Smoky Mountains National Park brings low temperatures, with highs of 6°C (43°F) and nights around -6°C (21°F). During January, you'll experience the winter season. Temperatures remain on the cold side all day. A proper warm jacket is worth having, not just for evenings. Nights drop below freezing to -6°C (21°F). An extra blanket is worth packing if you're unsure about the heating where you're staying. Typically, it's the chilliest month of the year. Ensure you're prepared by packing appropriate winter gear.
Sunshine in Great Smoky Mountains National Park in January
With about 134 hours of sunshine, the area enjoys a nice balance of sun and overcast, creating a pleasant environment.If you prefer dry days with pleasant temperatures, January may not be the ideal month to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Our weather planner can help you explore destinations with more pleasant weather conditions.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Temperature in January
Min Temperature
-6°C (21°F)
Max Temperature
6°C (43°F)
Chance of Rain
50%
Precipitation
174 mm (6.9 in)
Rainy days
15 days
Humidity
71% *
Sunshine
134 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
45% *
* Data from: Knoxville, the United States of America (54 KM, 34 Miles).
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Great Smoky Mountains National Park - and find the best time to visit.
Daily Historical Temperatures
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Great Smoky Mountains National Park typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 6°C (43°F). Nights are very cold, with lows typically ranging from -3°C (27°F) to 0°C (32°F).
Average temperatures in January
Daily Historical Precipitation
51-year average (1976-2026)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in January
Historical weather records for Great Smoky Mountains National Park in January
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 January
Based on 49 years of weather observations in Great Smoky Mountains National Park between 1976 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes.
- The warmest day in January was on January 30, 2002, with a maximum of 24°C (75°F).
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park registered its coldest January night on January 19, 1994, with temperatures dropping to -20°C (-4°F).
- The wettest day in January Great Smoky Mountains National Park was on January 23, 2002 with 87 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation.
Best Places in the United States of America in January
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 January →
perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor
Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).
What to Wear in Great Smoky Mountains National Park in January
We recommend to layer up for chilly conditions in Great Smoky Mountains National Park in January. You could start with thermal underwear or a good base layer to keep your core warm on the cooler days this month. Maybe also add a sweater or fleece, and top it off with a windproof jacket. Also bring a poncho, it will rain a lot! Waterproof everything you can. 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 January
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
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Swimming5/10 -
Cycling3/10 -
Walking3/10 -
Camping1/10 -
Outdoor sports3/10
Great Smoky Mountains National Park 3-Day Forecast
More climate data for Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Popular in January
Where to go in January - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
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