Gatlinburg
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Gatlinburg Weather in May

With daytime temperatures of 24°C (75°F) and nighttime lows of 10°C (50°F), May in Gatlinburg brings high temperatures during the day. Do keep in mind that quite a bit of rainfall is typical. Around 125 mm (4.9 in) falls on average.

Rainfall in Gatlinburg in May

Historically, approximately 16 days this month are expected to have rain, averaging 125 mm (4.9 in). 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 Gatlinburg in May

Daytime temperatures in Gatlinburg reach 24°C (75°F) in May, dropping to 10°C (50°F) at night. Conditions stay fairly consistent through the month, making it easier to plan what to wear. With lows of 10°C (50°F), nights are cool. If you're out after dark, an extra layer will keep you comfortable. The cooler air at night is also great for getting a good rest.

Sunshine in Gatlinburg in May

With approximately 289 hours of sunshine, the days are filled with clear skies. It makes it a perfect month for being outside.

If you prefer enjoying temperate temperatures and rain-free days, October typically offers the best circumstances. If you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather somewhere else in the world, our weather planner can help you explore other options.

Gatlinburg Temperature in May

Min Temperature
10°C (50°F)
Max Temperature
24°C (75°F)
Chance of Rain
52%
Precipitation
125 mm (4.9 in)
Rainy days
16 days
Humidity
71% *
Sunshine
289 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
66% *
* 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

50-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Gatlinburg 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 17°C (63°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 records for Gatlinburg in May

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 May

Our historical data for Gatlinburg spans 1976 to 2026, revealing these weather extremes.

  • The warmest day in May was on May 31, 2011, with a maximum of 33°C (91°F).
  • The coldest night in May in Gatlinburg was on May 10, 2020, with a minimum of 1°C (34°F).

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 →

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 May

Comfortable temperatures call for an easy wardrobe in May. Pack summer basics like t-shirts and shorts, but include a light jacket for cooler moments. A pair of comfortable walking shoes is essential. Expect heavy rainfall, so bring good rain protection and waterproof bags. You'll definitely want to pack sunglasses and sunscreen. There will be plenty of bright sunshine this month.

What To Do in Gatlinburg in May

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

  • Swimming
    9/10
  • Cycling
    9/10
  • Walking
    9/10
  • Camping
    6/10
  • Outdoor sports
    9/10

Gatlinburg 3-Day Forecast

Popular in May

Where to go in May - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.