If you’ve started planning your trip to the Smokies, then you’re probably wondering when the best time to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park is.
The answer may vary depending on your interests, preference for weather, and tolerance for crowds.
I’m James and I’m a national park expert. In this article, I’ll give you a quick summary of the best times to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park so you can make the right decision about when to go.
While this is my choice for the best time to go to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the park is great throughout the year. I’ve also provided a detailed breakdown by season and every month so you can easily see what to expect and then make your own choice.
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The Best Time to Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The best time to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park In a Nutshell
The best months to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park are May, September and October. By visiting then you can beat the summer rain – and crowds – and experience weather that’s generally pleasant.
The summer months of June, July and August offer warm weather at higher elevations, and hot temperatures in the lowlands. These are the busiest months in terms of visitor numbers. It can rain a lot in summer, however. Visibility is also affected by the haze, and there’s high humidity to contend with too.
For fall colors in the Smoky Mountains, head there in October, if you can. The leaves turn golden, bronze, orange and red from late September onwards, so by visiting in October you can see them in their full glory.
November to April is the low season, due to the winter weather. But it can be a good time to visit if you want to travel on a budget – or beat the crowds.
When is the best time of year to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park (for different interests?
The best temperatures
The warmest and most pleasant months in Great Smoky Mountains National Park are between May and October. June, July and August are the busiest, so visit in May, September or October to beat the summer crowds.
The best time to see wildlife
Spotting wildlife can be more about the time of day than the time of year. Early mornings and at dusk are the best times to see local fauna.
The best time to avoid the crowds
Winter is the best time to avoid other tourists, followed by early spring and late fall.
The best time to travel in summer
June and August are a little quieter than July in the park, though it’s busy in the Smokies all summer.
The best time to see fall colors in Smoky Mountains
The fall colors are at their finest during October, and the season runs from late September to early November, depending on the altitude.
The best time to travel on a budget
Winter is the off-season, followed by the months of November, March and April.
The best time to have a winter adventure in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Winterfest runs from November to February. For snow, January and February are best, followed by December.
The worst time to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park
If you don’t like the cold, then winter is the worst time to visit. Though the same can be said of summer, if you want to avoid the crowds.
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The Best Time to Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Check my detailed breakdown of what to expect every month in the year for much more detailed information.
Travel Insurance for Great Smoky Mountains National Park
No matter when is the best time to go to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you should definitely get travel insurance. This can protect you not only against medical and emergency repatriation, but can also cover things like trip cancellation, loss and/ or theft of property, etc.
A great insurance option is Travelex. It has coverage for all you’ll need. You can compare Travel Insurance plans here or get a quote right now:
Enjoy Great Smoky Mountains National Park!
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Smoky Mountain National Park Guide
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10 Fun Facts about Great Smoky Mountains National Park
How to Get To Great Smoky Mountains National Park
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About the Author
James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.
He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of the national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks.
Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for most of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, comprehensive camping and hiking gear reviews and buying guides, and helpful packing lists and gift guides will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.
As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including USA Today, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.
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