Here in Gatlinburg, we’re fortunate enough to experience all four seasons without extreme heat or cold. We may be biased, but we think every time of year is the best time to visit Gatlinburg! We’ve laid out our favorite parts of each season so you can decide when to visit based on your interests.
You’ll find some great Gatlinburg activities below, but there’s so much more to do in our beautiful area of the Smoky Mountains! Access our free Vacation Guide full of the best places to eat, shop, and see in Gatlinburg!
Choose the Best Time to Visit Gatlinburg
Fall
It’s no secret that fall is a breathtaking time in the Smoky Mountains. As the fall foliage creeps down the mountains, it turns East Tennessee into waves of yellow, orange, and red. All of this beauty makes it the perfect time to hit the trails. Temperatures typically go into the 70s during the day and dip into the mid-40s at night, so you don’t have to worry about getting too hot on your hike.
Local Tip: This is the peak season in Gatlinburg and can get crowded at times. We recommend a midweek stay to beat the lines and make the most of your vacation.
Winter
If you want to see snow, winter will be the best time to visit Gatlinburg for you! A white blanket covers the mountains and trees turning the area into a stunning winter wonderland. The snow brings winter activities. Ober Gatlinburg is the closest ski area and offers skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and indoor ice skating. No need to worry about bringing gear; you can rent everything you need when you get there. If you need to stay warm, check out the many distilleries in town for some of the best moonshine in the country.
Local Tip: Ober Gatlinburg limits its capacity to help manage crowds and lines. We recommend getting your passes online ahead of time.
Spring
Spring is a time of year that sometimes gets overlooked in East Tennessee but is completely underrated! As the flowers begin to bloom, Gatlinburg transforms into a colorful and fragrant oasis. We recommend doing some easy hikes or checking out a waterfall. Along the way, you’ll spot hundreds of different blooming flora and fauna as the cold subsides and the mountains come back to life.
Local Tip: Bring the allergy medicine!
Summer
The warm weather of summer brings lots of opportunities to have fun and stay cool. Your kids will love nearby waterparks Wild Bear Falls Water Park and Dollywood’s Splash Country. Speaking of Dollywood, primetime to visit is summer. There are countless things to do from riding rides to watching live entertainment to enjoying the Sweet Summer Nights 3D Drone and Fireworks Show. If you’re looking for a thrill, experience heart-pumping fun with whitewater rafting. There are several tour companies that will help you and the family have a safe and exhilarating time.
Local Tip: Weekends in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park can get crowded on the weekends. Be sure to leave early if you’re heading into the park.
It’s Always a Good Time to Stay at Edgewater Hotel
Now that you’ve decided when the best time to visit Gatlinburg is, choose Edgewater Hotel when booking your stay! We offer the best accommodations in Gatlinburg. You’ll be minutes away from everything the area has to offer while being surrounded by the stunning nature of the Smoky Mountains. Each of our accommodations is fully equipped with the best amenities and comfortable furnishings. Sip a glass of wine on your private balcony, cozy up next to the fireplace, or take a stroll along the parkway. Plus, you’ll wake up every morning to a delicious complimentary breakfast.
Check our availability and book your stay today!