Great Smoky Mountains National Park Weather in May
May in Great Smoky Mountains National Park brings pleasant temperatures around 20°C (68°F) during the day, dropping to 7°C (45°F) at night, with quite a bit of rainfall expected, averaging around 147 mm (5.8 in) for the month.
Rainfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park in May
The climate data from previous years indicates about 17 days of rain, averaging 147 mm (5.8 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 May
May in Great Smoky Mountains National Park brings pleasant temperatures, with highs of 20°C (68°F) and nights around 7°C (45°F). This creates a mild day-to-night pattern that is generally easy to manage with the right clothing. With overnight lows of 7°C (45°F), nights are cold. The cold air does make for deep, comfortable sleep if you have enough blankets.
Sunshine in Great Smoky Mountains National Park in May
Enjoy a sunny month with about 289 hours of sunshine, the clear skies make Great Smoky Mountains National Park even more beautiful.If you're inclined towards comfortable temperatures and drier conditions, May is a good time to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
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 May
Min Temperature
7°C (45°F)
Max Temperature
20°C (68°F)
Chance of Rain
57%
Precipitation
147 mm (5.8 in)
Rainy days
17 days
Humidity
71% *
Sunshine
289 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
66% *
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Great Smoky Mountains National Park typically rise from around 23°C (73°F) at the start of May to approximately 27°C (81°F) by the end. Nights are cool, with lows typically ranging from 11°C (52°F) to 16°C (61°F).
Average temperatures in May
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 May
Historical weather for Great Smoky Mountains National Park in May
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 May
According to our 49 years of weather records for Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the following extremes were recorded between 1976 and 2025.
- On May 31, 1991, temperatures climbed to 33°C (91°F), marking the warmest May day on record.
- On May 7, 1992, Great Smoky Mountains National Park saw its coldest May day with temperatures maxing out at 8°C (46°F).
- The coldest night in May in Great Smoky Mountains National Park was on May 10, 2020, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F).
- The wettest day in May Great Smoky Mountains National Park was on May 12, 2003 with 101 mm (4 in) of precipitation.
Best Places in the United States of America in May
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 May →
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What to Wear in Great Smoky Mountains National Park in May
Pleasant temperatures in May mean you can pack light but flexibel pieces. Think cotton t-shirts, comfortable walking shorts, and one warmer layer for evenings. A light sweater or denim jacket works well. Prepare for significant rainfall with proper waterproof clothing and shoes. Don't forget sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. These are all good ideas with this much sunshine.What To Do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park in May
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.
