Gatlinburg
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Gatlinburg Weather in January

In Gatlinburg, January brings low daytime temperatures around 8°C (46°F), with nights cooling to -4°C (25°F). Expect quite a bit of snow/rainfall this month.

Rainfall in Gatlinburg in January

On average, there are about 15 days with snow/rain during this month, averaging 126 mm (5 in). When it rains this month, it tends to come down fairly heavily. Showers can be substantial even if they don't last all day.

Temperature in Gatlinburg in January

In January, Gatlinburg sees low temperatures, with highs of 8°C (46°F). Nights drop to around -4°C (25°F). January is in the winter season. Even at the warmest part of the day, temperatures stay low. Dressing warmly from the start is the sensible approach. At -4°C (25°F) overnight, frost and ice are likely outside. Indoors, consider packing an extra blanket if you're unsure about the heating. As the coldest month of the year, it's important to pack plenty of warm clothes and winter gear.

Sunshine in Gatlinburg in January

The month experiences a moderate amount of sunlight, with 134 hours of sunshine. This provides a nice balance between sunshine and clouds.

January in Gatlinburg 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.

Gatlinburg Temperature in January

Min Temperature
-4°C (25°F)
Max Temperature
8°C (46°F)
Chance of Rain
50%
Precipitation
126 mm (5 in)
Rainy days
15 days
Humidity
71% *
Sunshine
134 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
45% *
* Data from: Knoxville, the United States of America (46 KM, 28 Miles).

Gatlinburg Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Gatlinburg - and find the best time to visit.

Daily Historical Temperatures

51-year average (1976-2026)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Gatlinburg typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 8°C (46°F). Nights are very cold, with lows typically ranging from -3°C (27°F) to 1°C (34°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 Gatlinburg in January

Browse day-by-day weather records for Gatlinburg spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Gatlinburg historical weather extremes in January

Our historical data for Gatlinburg spans 1976 to 2025, revealing these weather extremes.

  • Gatlinburg recorded its highest January temperature of 24°C (75°F) on January 1, 2022.
  • The coldest night in January in Gatlinburg was on January 19, 1994, with a minimum of -20°C (-4°F).
  • The wettest January day on record brought 87 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation to Gatlinburg (January 23, 2002).

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 Gatlinburg in January

Dress warmly and in layers for your trip to Gatlinburg in January. A good base layer system works wonders. Start with good thermal underwear, add something warm like a fleece sweater, then finish with a waterproof jacket on top. Expect heavy rainfall, so bring good rain protection and waterproof bags. It won't hurt to bring your sunglasses along, as you'll see some sunny periods.

What To Do in Gatlinburg in January

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Swimming
    5/10
  • Cycling
    4/10
  • Walking
    4/10
  • Camping
    1/10
  • Outdoor sports
    4/10

Gatlinburg 3-Day Forecast

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.