Does it snow in Tennessee? is what we are going to discuss in this does it snow guide.
In Tennessee, it does snow. Winters in the state are mild, with only a few dustings of snow.
Higher elevations, such as the Appalachians, receive roughly 16 inches of snow per year, whereas lower elevations, such as West Tennessee, receive only 5 inches.
For many people, visiting the Great Smoky Mountains in the winter means seeing the mountains covered in snow.
However, finding snow can be difficult.
Does it snow in Tennessee?
Snow is frequently an uncommon treat at lower elevations, falling in large amounts just a few times each year.
If you want to see actual snow in the Smokiest, you’ll just have to be lucky. If you arrive when it’s snowing, I recommend bringing milk, bread, and toilet paper.
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My family is a hoarder, and we’ve gone through enough unexpected blizzards to know that we’ll never be without the necessities again.
In Tennessee, where does it snow? These are the five locations in Tennessee where you can find snow.
In Tennessee When does it snow?
Prior to addressing the topic “Where does it snow in Tennessee?” We deemed it wise to talk about when snowfall occurs in this southern state.
Tennessee typically receives snow in January and February. Although this is not always the case, we’d estimate that you have a very decent probability of seeing flurries within this time frame if you’re looking to book a flight ASAP.
However, between December and April, it is technically possible for snow to fall in Tennessee. Therefore, keep an eye on the weather (literally!).
Tennessee receives roughly 9 inches of snow each year. This figure may vary during unusually cold or warm winters, but it’s a reasonable starting point. And the majority of this snowfall occurs in a single location—the first on our list of “where does it snow in Tennessee?” below.
In Tennessee’s cities, it snows significantly less frequently, with an average snowfall of about 1 or 2 inches.
If we had to pick the best month to visit Tennessee for snow, we’d say January. With an average snowfall of 4 inches per winter and temperatures ranging from 35 to 44 degrees, January is certainly chilly enough to merit the white stuff.
Tennessee’s Climates
Summer (June to August) is quite hot in the majority of the state (up to 88 degrees in July). The fall season (September through November) is quite refreshing (39 to 82 degrees).
On the other side, Tennessee’s winter (December to February) and spring (March to May) seasons are generally mild (28 to 78 degrees), with May being the wettest month.
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During these two moderate seasons, rainfall is frequently above average, averaging about 50 inches per year. Snowfall occurs predominantly in the mountains of Tennessee, but may also dust the lower elevations during snowstorms.
Where in Tennessee does it snow?
Top 10 Tennessee Cities (Average Snow Days) | |
City | Average Snow Days |
Trade | 11.6 |
Fairfield Glade | 10.8 |
Deer Lodge | 10.3 |
Laurel Bloomery | 9.3 |
Lancing | 8.8 |
Shady Valley | 8.8 |
Mountain City | 8.8 |
Huntsville | 8.8 |
Helenwood | 8.8 |
Wartburg | 8.7 |
Source: USA.com
Does it snow in Gatlinburg in Tennessee?
When the question ‘Where does it snow in Tennessee?’ is posed, this is the only correct response. and unquestionably the most reliable spot for snow flurries.
Gatlinburg, we believe, is the best site in Tennessee to experience snow. Not only is this city home to the famed Smoky Mountains, but it is also densely packed with restaurants, sights, and natural wonders.
If we’re being completely candid, we’d always answer “where does it snow in Tennessee?” with Gatlinburg.
Although there are a few other cities in Tennessee that see snow on occasion and do receive snow, Gatlinburg is the city that strives to satisfy in this department!
Along with skiing and hiking, Gatlinburg provides a variety of celebratory activities. There are several independent shops here that provide handcrafted Christmas items, and the staff is always willing to assist. As a result, it’s an excellent spot to feel merry as well.
If you’re visiting Gatlinburg in search of Tennessee snow, we recommend packing a heavy coat and a good pair of walking boots.
You may not wish to go across the mountains in the winter, but the terrain can become ice. Believe us when we say that you do not want a sprained ankle to ruin an otherwise fantastic trip.
As a result, if you’re wondering, “Does it snow in Tennessee?” Gatlinburg shows unequivocally that the answer is “yes!” If you’re looking for snow in Tennessee, Gatlinburg is your best bet.
Does it snow in Knoxville in Tennessee?
While we’ve proven that Gatlinburg is the greatest response to the question, “Where does it snow in Tennessee? With argument we can also say that Knoxville is also a viable option.
With an average annual snowfall of roughly 4 inches, you have a good chance of noticing snow during a winter visit to this city.
While there is no assurance of snow in the southern states, temperatures do drop low enough to trigger snow if the weather cooperates. Thus, snow is a possibility in Knoxville, Tennessee.
If you’re looking for something to do while in the neighborhood, how about visiting the Tennessee Theater or the Knoxville Museum of Art? These two sites, which are at the top of most lists of things to do in Knoxville, are ideal for getting to know Knoxville’s more artistic side.
Market Square is the ideal location for anyone looking to unwind with a nice cup of hot chocolate and do some Christmas shopping. Whatever you choose to do here, you’re guaranteed to have a fantastic time!
Continue reading about Knoxville: 20 things to do in Knoxville with your significant other.
Does it snow in Nashville in Tennessee?
Nashville is the next recommendation for ‘where does it snow in Tennessee?’ Nashville is extremely cold, and as a result, it is frequently a location in Tennessee that receives snow, though not in the quantities seen in the two cities above.
Winter temperatures average around 36 degrees Fahrenheit, and snowfall has reached up to 10 inches in some years (although this is rare).
While snowball battles are unlikely due to the way snow sets in Nashville, you should be able to walk through the city surrounded by flurries.
Given that Nashville is Tennessee’s capital, we’d argue that it’s well worth examining in depth. With attractions such as the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Grand Ole Opry, and the Ryman Auditorium, even the most difficult-to-please visitors should find something to enjoy.
Does it snow in Cookeville in Tennessee?
Cookeville is another location that we often cite when asked “where does it snow in Tennessee?” This beautiful neighborhood in Nashville’s eastern suburbs receives approximately 7 inches of snow each year.
Winters in this part of the world are bitterly cold, so we recommend bringing plenty of clothes and dressing appropriately.
What we admire about Cookeville is its approach to the holiday season. Around the holidays, the area truly transforms.
As a result, even if it does not snow, you will have the sensation of wandering through a winter wonderland.
If you’re short on time, be sure to stop by The Market on the Square. It’s definitely the ideal location for holiday shopping, and you’re certain to leave with a slew of unusual gifts that will impress friends and family.
Does it snow in Kingsport in Tennessee?
Kingsport is a small city in Tennessee, but its northern location ensures that it receives significant snowfall, particularly in December and January.
How much snow falls in Kingsport, Tennessee? Throughout the year, you may anticipate approximately 16 days of snow. This may not seem like much, but it is fairly high for this region of the United States.
While Kingsport is not the most well-known place in Tennessee, it does provide a variety of enjoyable activities and attractions, so you’ll have plenty to keep you occupied while waiting for snow in Tennessee!
In Tennessee, what months does it snow?
The months of January and February are the most likely to experience snow in the Tennessee mountains.
Weather, on the other hand, is constantly unexpected.
Winter in Tennessee typically lasts from mid-November to mid-February, however snow has been recorded to fall as early as October and as late as March and April. It’s difficult to predict which month will have the most snow.
While the majority of the winter is mild, there are several exceptions.
It’s always a good idea to be prepared while traveling during the winter months.
Which Month Is the Coldest in Tennessee?
January is Tennessee’s coldest month, with temperatures normally ranging between 37 and 44 degrees.
However, rainfall is highest (at least 5 inches) between March and May and November and December (Chattanooga and Memphis).
If you’re visiting Tennessee in January, pack a warm jacket (view on Amazon). This winter jacket, made entirely of polyester, takes pride in its Omni-Tech technology, which keeps it waterproof while remaining breathable.
How Are Tennessee’s Winters?
If you’re looking to escape uncomfortably frigid winters, Tennessee is a better option. Does Tennessee get snow? Yes, but it is a dry chill as there is little moisture in the air.
Additionally, snow only remains on the ground for a few days before melting away, sometimes within hours.
Despite the brief snowfall, winters in Tennessee are difficult. Rather than snowy terrain, Tennessee frequently receives freezing rain, resulting in dangerous ice.
Due to locals’ unfamiliarity with snowfall, skidding autos are a leading cause of vehicular and pedestrian accidents. Scraping and salting are two of the states’ responses to such events.
Winter is also a time of “halt” for the majority of businesses. The reason for this is the 1993 blizzard, which blanketed Tennessee roadways with two feet of snow in a single night, resulting in weeks of power outages in some regions.
In the Smoky Mountains, where can I find snow?
If you’re looking for snow, there are a few things you can do to improve your chances.
However, there are a few caveats. On slippery, mountainous routes, don’t take any chances. To be clear, seeing snow up close and personal is not worth jeopardizing your own or others’ lives.
Before you embark on your excursion, be aware of the weather conditions.
Second, if you’re at a higher elevation, the weather can abruptly shift. Swivel your head back and forth.
Without further ado, here are some of the best sites in the Smoky Mountains to see snow, along with accessibility suggestions.
Pay a visit to Hartford (Altitude: 1,263 feet)
Hartford is the last village in Tennessee as you rise into the mountains on I-40, right near the North Carolina border in Cocke County.
Hartford isn’t particularly high up at 1,263 feet, yet it’s frequently the first populated hamlet in Tennessee to get snow, thanks to its location at exit 447.
Hartford isn’t the best location to go if you want to get out and truly explore the snow, but if you just want to see it and maybe let the kids make a few snowballs without having to put winter chains on your tires, Hartford is the place to go.
You don’t have to traverse many twisting mountain roads to get there because of its proximity to I-40, and the Interstates are usually the best-maintained roads we have during winter storms.
Just make sure you have the necessary gear, such as jackets, hats, and gloves, before venturing too far from the exit.
Each day in December, the average likelihood of rain, snow, sleet, or hail is roughly 30% (Kenny Onufrock/shutterstock.com).
Make a pit stop at a rest stop or a visitor center.
Let me propose something a little off the beaten path if you want to get out and play in the snow in a safe manner: rest places and welcome centers.
The Interstates, as I have stated, are the best-maintained roadways in the mountains during a snowstorm.
I’d go to the rest areas and welcome centers on either side of the state border if I wanted to take my tiny children up into the mountains in and around the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to see snow.
A good place in North Carolina is around mile marker 10 on I-40. The Waterville Lake Rest Area is on the west side, and the Welcome Center is on the east side.
The views from the rest area are significantly superior, and there’s plenty of space, a picnic area, and other areas where kids may play.
The height should be substantially higher than Hartford at 10 miles into North Carolina, and the snow should be thicker.
But use caution. This is still an Interstate highway that winds its way up, up, up into the mountains.
There aren’t many options for turning around.
Although I believe there is a divider between the east and westbound lanes, I must emphasize the following: DO NOT attempt to turn around utilizing the Interstate’s emergency entrance.
Max Patch is a lovely spot, although it might be difficult to get to. Proceed with caution (stock.adobe.com photo by Kendall)
Look into Max Patch (Elevation: 4,616 feet)
We’re now discussing trick accessibility. This should only be attempted with four-wheel drive and an experienced driver.
People who live in the Rockies probably wouldn’t mind driving to Max Patch in the snow, but Southerners – and even flat-landers – should tread carefully.
Max Patch, a bald on the Appalachian Trail just beyond the state border, is one of the great wonders of the highlands.
It’s lovely any time of year, but with a light dusting of snow? It’s like being in a winter wonderland.
It is, nonetheless, a difficult to access wonderland. Max Patch is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains at 4,616 feet elevation and offers some of the most beautiful vistas.
In the winter, I would not advocate driving to Max Patch from Tennessee; instead, I would drive I-40 into North Carolina and enter from there.
The popular Enchanted Winter at Anakeesta festival takes place in Gatlinburg from late November to early January (picture by Morgan Overholt/TheSmokies.com).
Pay a visit to Anakeesta (Elevation: 600 feet)
In the snow, Gatlinburg, with its European chalet vibe, is fantastic. Anakeesta is also a terrific place to take in the snow with a pleasant warm, or alcoholic beverage, have a nice dinner, and play at the greatest elements of being a ski bum without all the physical work of skiing, thanks to its magnificent vistas.
However, because Anakeesta is located in the middle of Gatlinburg, there’s a good chance that a few thousand of your closest friends will be thinking the same thing. Get to a mountaintop rocking chair as soon as possible.
When booking your tickets, remember to check Tripster for discounts.
If you want to see some snow, Pigeon Forge Snow is a guaranteed thing (picture courtesy of Morgan Overholt/TheSmokies.com).
Take a snow tubing trip at Pigeon Forge Snow Tubing.
Look, I grew up in Northern Indiana, where the winters are long, harsh, and dreary. Wind chills of minus 75 degrees? They had ’em, for sure.
We did, however, have snow, and a lot of it.
Sledding, snowball battles, snowmen, snow angels, the works. Sledding-related injuries were just a part of life.
On a moonless night in my wild youth, we went midnight sledding in a neighbor’s field. It was a magnificent hill. We constructed a ramp. First, I collided with the ice snow. For a little moment, it ached, but we persisted.
We turned on the lights when we came home, fatigued, to realize that my skin had been shaved off my face, and I resembled a zombie. Because my face was frozen and I couldn’t feel the blood, I hadn’t noticed.
In an ideal world, I’d like my kids to have all of the fun of snow with as little of the headache and hassle for me as possible. Pigeon Forge Snow comes to the rescue.
I can take my kids sledding on a great hill with little danger, which lowers the odds of a mid-vacation trip to the hospital or shaving the skin off your face like you’ve been assaulted with a cheese grater.
Pigeon Forge Snow even has a snow area where kids can run about and play in the snow to get a feel for it. Snowball battles are prohibited, but the rest of your snowy fix is available all year. Ober Gatlinburg is a popular winter activity location in the area. (Photo courtesy of TheSmokies.com/Daniel Munson)
Ober Gatlinburg offers skiing, snow tubing, and ice skating.
The concept is the same as Pigeon Forge Snow, but the execution is different.
Unlike Pigeon Forge Snow, which is an in-and-out, here’s-some-fake-snow-let’s-all-enjoy-it type of attraction, Ober is a fully immersing experience.
When the weather permits, it’s a mountaintop community with stores and restaurants, as well as tubing and skiing.
There’s also year-round ice skating, which I like in theory but not always in practice.
Ober is a terrific site to try out winter activities, but the weather must be suitable for skiing. The tubing hill is run by a separate system and is open while the skiing hills are closed.
While Pigeon Forge Snow is able to promise snow all year, Ober is unable to provide the same level of service. Ober, on the other hand, has a considerably wider range of possibilities when it can.
You can also get there by taking the Aerial Tramway, which is amusing and allows parents to make jokes by triumphantly singing funicular in operatic style like Andrea Bocelli.
If you ride the Tramway, booking with Tripster can save you a few bucks.
Do you have any snow-related recommendations for visitors to Tennessee? Please let us know in the comments section.
Finally So, does it snow in Tennessee?
As previously established, it does snow in Tennessee! And maybe this list of solutions to the question, “Where does it snow in Tennessee?” has inspired you to plan a trip!
While you won’t get quite as much snow as you might get in the Rockies or other northern regions, you still have a good chance of frolicking through some accumulated snow in Tennessee.
If you’re looking for guaranteed snow in Tennessee, we strongly recommend Gatlinburg. Snow is conceivable in the state’s more urban areas, although this city receives snow virtually every year. Additionally, this region is home to some absolutely spectacular winter activities.
Therefore, whether you’re interested in embarking on an adventurous winter climb or simply getting a warm brew from a local coffee shop, Gatlinburg is unlikely to disappoint.
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