Seasonal Information

Everything blooms in the spring: Plants, flowers, ferns. Tree buds and branches. Even creeks and streams, so clear and alive. Soon a fresh green covers the entire landscape, mixing with colors you never thought possible. But remember that in the mountains the weather can be changeable--warm and sunny one day, and cool and rainy the next.  Be prepared!

March--May: Average high temperatures--low 60's through high 70's.  Average low temperatures--low 30's through low 50's.  Average rainfall--4.5" to 5".

Then there's summer. Basking under the warmth of the sun on an innertube or just relaxing next to a splashing river or creek, it's your best chance to view wildlife--especially in the mornings and evenings.  Most summer rains come in the form of afternoon thunderstorms, followed by rainbows and pretty sunsets. 

June--August: Average high temperatures--mid 80's to low 90's. Average low temperatures--upper 50's to low 60's.  Average rainfall--5.5" to 6".

And fall! The seasonal brilliance of changing colors and the memorable fragrance of a crisp autumn morning. The hues in the mountains of East Tennessee are world famous this time of year.  The days cool down in late September and early October and fall colors march down the mountains.  There can be some snow in the high elevations in November.

September--November: Average high temperatures--low 60's to mid 80's.  Average low temperatures--mid 30's to mid 50's. Average rainfall--3" to 3.5".

Also winter. Explore a snowy trail in the clear, quiet mountain air. Even the smallest sounds in the forest come alive due to the completely changed environment.  Usually, there are just a few snows each winter in the lower elevations, but several feet fall on the high country.  Be sure to check for local road conditions and possible closures.

December--February: Average high temperatures--low to mid 50's. Average low temperatures--mid 20's. Average rainfall--4.5" to 5"