Moderate Winter Conditions in January, February, November, and December
Prepare for a typically moderate winter during the last two and first two months of the year. Remember that even areas of temperate cold do experience the occasional weather extremes. Look for snow in the highest elevations, while you will find rainfall in the lower quarters of the Smoky Mountains. Snowfall fluctuates between about one and three inches at low elevations, and five to 20 inches at high elevations. Depending on elevation, lows may fall to -20° Fahrenheit or go as high as 70° Fahrenheit.
Occasional Precipitation and Belated Snowfall in March, April and May
Predict the unpredictable in spring. Bright sunshine gives way to snowfall, rain or mist. The higher elevations are particularly prone to having rapidly changing weather patterns. At low elevations, the temperatures swing between 34° and 79° Fahrenheit, while in higher elevations they may fluctuate between 24° and 57° Fahrenheit.
Pack for Heat and High Humidity in June, July and August
Anticipate high humidity and heat in the summer, especially in lower elevations; additionally, plan on the occasional heavy rain shower and even early evening thunderstorm. In the lower portions of the Smoky Mountains, summer temperatures range from 58° to 88° Fahrenheit, while higher up the summer temperatures are more moderate and run between 52° and 65° Fahrenheit.
Keep Warm in the Cool Weather of September and October
Recognize that the autumn in the Smoky Mountains brings rapidly cooling temperatures. You will meet many day hikers enjoying the spectacular display of changing leaf colors, but if you stay past the early afternoon, you are likely to encounter rapidly falling evening temperatures and also frost. Temperatures range from 43° to 83° Fahrenheit in lower elevations, and 38° to 60° Fahrenheit toward the tops of the mountain ranges.
