Great Smoky Mountains National Park Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Climate overview of Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The climate in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, United States of America, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 25°C (77°F) in August to 6°C (43°F) in January.
The city receives considerable rain/snowfall, with around 1875 mm (74 in) annually. July is the wettest month. It has warm summers and cold winters. The most sunshine falls in June, with an average of 9.7 hours of daily sunshine.
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.
Monthly Temperature in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
In Great Smoky Mountains National Park, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 25°C (77°F) in August to a chilly 6°C (43°F) in the coolest month, January.
Nights vary from 13°C (55°F) in August to around -6°C (21°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park experiences significant rain/snowfall throughout the year, averaging 1875 mm (74 in) of precipitation annually. Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a pleasant mix of wetter and slightly drier months. The difference in precipitation between the wettest month July (211 mm (8.3 in)) and the driest month February (120 mm (4.7 in)) is not too significant. For more details, please visit our Great Smoky Mountains National Park Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
For those who appreciate different seasons, Great Smoky Mountains National Park serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in June with an average of 9.7 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in December, offering only 4.2 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Humidity in Great Smoky Mountains National Park by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The city experiences its highest humidity in July, reaching 76%. In April, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 63%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: May, June, August and September
- Warmest weather: June, July and August
- Most sunshine: May, June, July and August
- Seasonal pattern: Warm summers and cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -6°C (21°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
What is the best time to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
May, June, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. In contrast, January, February, March, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Great Smoky Mountains National Park has warm summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Daytime highs range from 6°C (43°F) in January to 25°C (77°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from -6°C (21°F) to 13°C (55°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Great Smoky Mountains National Park get?
Annual rainfall is around 1875 mm (74 in). July is the wettest month with 211 mm (8.3 in), while February is the driest with 120 mm (4.7 in).
How sunny is Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Great Smoky Mountains National Park receives around 2,618 hours of sunshine per year. June is the sunniest month with 290 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 125 hours. Overall, Great Smoky Mountains National Park enjoys abundant sunshine.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park 3-Day Forecast
Great Smoky Mountains National Park 3-Day Forecast
Great Smoky Mountains National Park on the map
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