This Smoky Mountains Vacation guide will provide information on the weather in Smoky Mountains in January, as well as tips on how best to plan for any outdoor activities. With some preparation, you can make sure your visit is an enjoyable one!
Planning outdoor activities can be much easier when you know what the weather will bring. Staying informed of the current conditions and time of day allows us to prepare ourselves for any potential changes in advance, guaranteeing a safe experience no matter what Mother Nature throws our way.
Planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains in January? Knowing what to expect weather-wise is essential for making sure you have an enjoyable experience.
While temperatures can be quite cold, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy if you come prepared! Learn all about the weather in Smoky Mountains in January in this post so that you can plan your visit accordingly.
Is January a good time to visit Smoky Mountains?
Yes! January is a great time to visit the Smoky Mountains. The colder temperatures bring plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities including skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing.
You can also take advantage of the many hiking trails throughout the area or cozy up in a Gatlinburg cabin with friends and family.
The Smokies also offer stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with its breathtaking vistas of valleys and mountains.
January is also a great time to take in many of the local attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium and Ober Gatlinburg. Smoky Mountains Christmas Lights is still up until late February so don’t miss it!
Now is your chance to experience the captivating beauty of the Smoky Mountains in peace and quiet, as there are far less tourists visiting this time of year.
What’s more? You can also take advantage of exceptional deals on lodging so that you have a truly stress-free getaway!
Weather In Smoky Mountains in January
The weather in the Smoky Mountains in January is often cold and unpredictable. Average temperature range from the mid-20s °F to low 40s °F during the day, with freezing temperature at night.
Additionally, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park sees 11 days of rainfall in January with a total accumulation amounting to 6.22″ on average.
One factor to remember is the elevation, which can affect the temperature significantly. Temperatures tend to be colder at higher elevations, so visitors should come prepared and dress in layers.
While winter in the Smokies can be harsh on occasion, it’s more often than not surprisingly mild during January and February.
On any given day during these months you may find yourself basking in temperatures of up to 60°F with glorious sunshine!
Overall, the temperature in the Smoky Mountains in January can range from chilly to downright freezing depending on temperature and elevation.
Before planning your trip, it’s important to review temperature forecasts and prepare accordingly to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Does it snow in the Smoky Mountains in January?
Yes, it does snow in the Smoky Mountains during January. The National Park Service reports that most of the snow storms in the Tennessee Smoky Mountains occur between December and February, when precipitation levels are highest.
January in Gatlinburg typically brings with it snowy days, averaging over four inches of snowfall annually. So when you plan a visit to the scenic city this month, there’s an excellent chance that wintery weather awaits!
If you’re planning a winter getaway to see snow, head for the hills! Higher elevations will give you more chances at seeing snow and it’ll stick around much longer than in low-lying areas.
It’s no surprise that mountain spots are known to receive more accumulation of snow each season compared to lower valleys.
Is The Smoky Mountain National Park Open In January?
The answer is Yes – the park is open all year round, 24 hours a day. However, some areas may be closed due to hazardous weather conditions or maintenance work, so visitors should always check for closures before heading out.
You can visit the National Park Service website for information on closures and restrictions, as well as updates on road conditions.
Can you hike the Great Smoky Mountains in January?
Yes, you can hike the Great Smoky Mountains in January! This wonderful national park spans North Carolina and Tennessee, offering hundreds of trails to explore and stunning views of the towering mountains. You might even get to see a dusting of snow on the highest peaks!
Head on to our Seasonal Hiking in the Smoky Mountains Vacation Guide for all the best hiking trails to take during this time of the year.
Smoky Mountains 7-Day Itinerary
I understand how difficult it can be to plan a trip, especially if it’s your first time going. That’s why I created this 7-day itinerary for the Smoky Mountains. It outlines all of the best places to go in the area and comes with insider tips that will save you a lot of stress–trust me, they saved me when I was planning my own trip!
- Our 7-day itinerary takes you to the best places in the Smoky Mountains.
- You’ll get to see all the best sights and attractions with driving directions
- The itinerary is designed to show you the most scenic routes.
- Packing Checklist for every season.
- You’ll have everything you need to make the most of your trip.
- Insider Tips!
Here’s a quick overview of our Smoky Mountains 7-Day Itinerary.
- Day 1: Cades Cove Loop
- Day 2: Rich Mountain Road
- Day 3: Cataloochee Valley
- Day 4: Newfound Gap Road
- Day 5: Roaring Fork Motor Trail
- Day 6: Little River Road
- Day6: Foothills Parkway
Get Our FREE Winter Packing Checklist For The Smoky Mountains!
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
If you love some snowy adventures in winter, then make sure to check out our post on Best Places For Pigeon Forge Snow Tubing and grab some of these Pigeon Forge Snow Tubing Coupons to save some money.
The Great Smoky Mountains are uniquely beautiful in January, so don’t miss visiting the area. Try this national park photo scavenger hunt idea to take photos of your visit and make your trip extra fun!
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