Gatlinburg

Planning a visit to Gatlinburg? To ensure your trip goes perfectly, check out the latest weather information. Below you will find up-to-date data, forecasts, and helpful weather charts.

Gatlinburg, located in the USA, features a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Visitors can expect cool winters, with average temperatures ranging from below freezing at night to +8°C during the day, particularly in January. Spring brings a gradual and pleasant warming, leading into a warm and occasionally hot summer. July and August are the warmest months, with average highs reaching +28°C. Autumn in Gatlinburg offers a comfortable chill and picturesque landscapes.

Precipitation in Gatlinburg is distributed throughout the year, but its intensity and frequency vary. The summer months, particularly July, stand out with the highest number of rainy days, featuring frequent but often brief showers. However, total precipitation in millimeters can be slightly higher in the winter months (January, February) and early spring (March), despite having fewer or comparable rainy days compared to some summer months. The driest period, with the least precipitation and fewest rainy days, is usually late autumn, especially October and November. This allows travelers to choose the most suitable time to visit Gatlinburg based on their weather preferences.

The annual temperature cycle in Gatlinburg demonstrates a clear change of seasons and offers diverse climatic conditions for visitors. The coldest month is traditionally January, when the average air temperature is about 3.9°C. During this period, nighttime temperatures can drop to an average of -0.6°C, while daytime highs usually reach 8.3°C. In contrast, the peak of summer heat falls in July, when the average temperature rises to 23.9°C, and August with an average temperature of 23.1°C. In these summer months, daytime heat can reach +28.6°C (July) and +27.8°C (August), creating a truly summery atmosphere.

The summer season in Gatlinburg, spanning June, July, and August, is characterized by pleasantly warm and occasionally hot weather. In June, the average temperature is 21.8°C, with daytime highs around 26.7°C and nights remaining warm with a minimum temperature of about 16.9°C. July, being the warmest month, warms the air to an average of 23.9°C; daytime peaks often reach 28.6°C, and nighttime temperatures stay around 19.3°C. August follows July with a slight decrease, offering an average temperature of 23.1°C, maximum daytime values up to 27.8°C, and nighttime lows around 18.5°C. Overall, summer in Gatlinburg features warm nights, which are conducive to evening activities.

The winter period in Gatlinburg, including December, January, and February, brings cool weather but without extreme frosts. In December, the average temperature is 6.2°C, with nighttime lows around 1.7°C and daytime highs up to 10.7°C. January, as mentioned, is the coldest month, with an average temperature of 3.9°C, nighttime frosts down to -0.6°C, and daytime warming up to 8.3°C. February marks a gradual transition toward spring: the average temperature rises to 7.8°C, nighttime values are around 2.9°C, and daytime highs can reach 12.8°C. It is worth noting that Gatlinburg is characterized by noticeable daily temperature fluctuations throughout the year: the difference between day and night figures is often 9-11°C, making evenings and nights significantly cooler than the days.

When planning a trip to Gatlinburg, it is worth noting that precipitation is a year-round occurrence, although its character and intensity change from season to season. You won't encounter a distinct rainy season or a prolonged drought, but certain periods are more or less humid. Being prepared for changeable weather, especially rain, will be your best bet.

In terms of total precipitation, the wettest month is February, with an average of 6 mm. January and March follow closely with figures around 5 mm. The winter months, particularly January, with its average lows around -0.6°C, can bring not only rain but also snowfall, which creates a special atmosphere in the mountains.

Conversely, the summer months have the highest frequency of precipitation. July holds the record for the number of rainy days—averaging 18 days. Rain is also quite frequent in June and August, occurring about 16 days per month. At the same time, monthly precipitation in summer stays at a level of about 4 mm, indicating frequent but likely not too heavy showers. The driest period in Gatlinburg is considered to be late autumn: October and November enjoy the lowest amount of precipitation (only 3 mm) and the fewest rainy days (9–10 days), making this an ideal time for outdoor activities.

When packing for a trip to Gatlinburg, it is important to consider the changeable weather and significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. The key principle is layering. Regardless of the season, you will need comfortable walking shoes, as there are many interesting places for on-foot exploration in and around Gatlinburg. Given that the number of rainy days varies from 9 to 18 per month, a light waterproof jacket or a compact umbrella will be your reliable companions. Even in the summer months with frequent, albeit brief, showers, such foresight is always a good idea.

For the spring and summer months (March to August), when average temperatures range from 10°C to 24°C, pack light clothing: T-shirts, shorts, light trousers, or dresses. However, evenings can be cool, especially in spring and early summer, so don't forget a sweater or a fleece jacket. In summer, especially in July and August when daytime temperatures can reach +28°C, be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Despite the warmth, keep in mind the high probability of rain, especially in June and July.

In autumn (September–November) and winter (December–February), the weather in Gatlinburg becomes significantly cooler. Average temperatures in the fall gradually decrease from 20°C to 9°C, and in winter they fluctuate between 3°C and 8°C, with nighttime frosts, especially in January (down to -0.6°C). During this period, you will need warm clothes: sweaters, warm trousers, thermal underwear (especially for the winter months), as well as a warm waterproof and windproof jacket. Don't forget a hat, scarf, and gloves, especially if you are planning a trip from December to February when snowfall is possible. Warm and waterproof footwear will also be very useful.