Smoky Mountains weather in March can be as near to perfect as you can get in the area, but it can also be rainy and even have snow at times. In this Smoky Mountains Vacation Guide we break down what you can expect weatherwise in the Smokies this time of the year.
With the onset of spring, March is a great time to visit the Smokies. The area offers some of the best outdoor activities and stunning views but to ensure you make the most out of your trip, it’s important to know what kind of weather to expect so you can plan accordingly.
There are so many things to do in the Smoky Mountains in March. But if you’re not careful, you can also get caught in some bad weather!
Here’s everything you need to know about Smoky Mountains weather in March.
Average Temperature in March
The spring season may seem to bring unpredictable weather changes in the Smoky Mountains, however, as a lifetime visitor to the region, I’m going to give you a more realistic description of what to expect if you visit the Smoky Mountains in March.
While the official reports tell you that the average low in the national park is 28°F (-2.2°C), and the highest average temperature is 46.9°F (8.3°C), you must keep in mind this is specifically in reference to being in the mountains of the national park.
If you are vacationing to Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg while visiting the Smoky Mountains you can expect much better average temperatures in March than those official numbers reveal.
The temperatures in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are not generally that cold throughout the whole month of March. In fact, it’s not unlikely you will see temperatures get into the mid 60’s and lower 70’s in late March.
Do keep in mind, however, being in the mountains of northeast Tennessee can be unpredictable, so don’t be surprised if you book a cabin in mid-March and wake up to snow on occasion.
The bottom line when traveling to the Smoky Mountains in March: Prepare for every season. Layer, layer, layer.
If you are vacationing to Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg while visiting the Smoky Mountains you can expect much better average temperatures in March than those official numbers reveal.
Clouds
March brings with it constant cloud covers in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. About 52% of the time during March, cloudy skies cover the area.
Rainfall
Rainfall in the Smokies in March is generally an average of 4-5″ total for the month, however, flooding can occur after a particularly rainy winter from time to time.
Keeping a close eye on the local forecast before traveling to the Smokies in March is a good idea, but in most cases, you can expect relatively sunny and cool crisp days with the occasional overcast and rainy day throughout the month.
Humidity
Humidity in March is relatively low and you should expect comfortable, cool, and crisp days throughout the month.
Wind
As March is kite-flying season, you might expect windy days to occur, but unless a major storm front is coming through, wind speeds rarely reach more than 5-6 mph throughout the month.
Daylight
In March, the daylight hours are beginning to increase and with the onset of daylight savings time in mid-month, you can expect to enjoy 11-12 hours of sunlight in the Smoky Mountains in March.
Daylight Savings Time begins on March 12, 2023
Again, however, Spring in the Smokies can be unpredictable so when packing for a trip in March, it is advisable to pack clothes that can be easily layered including base layers, rain jackets, and one warmer coat if you plan to hike into the mountains especially early in the day or late in the evening when temperatures may drop back into the mid 40’s.
Is There Snow In Smoky Mountains In March?
Snowfall in March in the Smoky Mountains isn’t unheard of and can definitely still occur at the higher elevations.
However, in the towns of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge if snowfall occurs in March it will likely only be a dusting and be gone within 1-2 days.
What to Wear In the Smoky Mountains In March?
Layers are the key when it comes to surviving the unique Smoky Mountains Weather in March. Here are some items to pack before your Smoky mountains getaway.
- Fleece Jackets, underlayers and gloves to combat the cold
- Rain gear- Rain coat or water-resistant jacket as a top layer just in case it rains, don’t forget your umbrella too.
- Good hiking shoes– bring a good pair of hiking shoes with excellent traction since the ground can be slippery.
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Related Smoky Mountain Resources
- Pigeon Forge Vacation Guide
- Gatlinburg Vacation Guide
- 125+ Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains
- Great Smoky Mountains Family Vacations Facebook Group
More Related Resources
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