Great Smoky Mountains National Park in December
In December, Great Smoky Mountains National Park averages a high of 50°F and a low of 29°F, with 4.9 inches of precipitation (rain plus melted snow) and 1.4 inches of snowfall. About 747,000 people visit, the 10th busiest of 12 (moderate). Days are 9 hours 45 minutes long.
- Quiet
- Moderate
- Busy
- Very busy
- Few or no visits (may be closed)
- Best months
- High / low
- 50° / 29°F
- Precipitation
- 4.9in
- Snow
- 1.4in
- Daylight
- 9h 45m
- Visitors
- 747,000
- Crowds
- Moderate
Best months for weather and crowds instead: September (busy), October (very busy) and November (busy).
Higher or lower in the park, expect a different picture: Mt Leconte, TN at 6,493 ft averages a December high of 37°F and a low of 21°F.
Weather 1991–2020 averages at Gatlinburg 2 SW, TN, 5 miles from the park's center, 1,454 ft. Second station higher up: Mt Leconte, TN, 6,493 ft, 3.9 miles. Visitors National Park Service recreation visits, average of 2023–2025. Updated .
Other parks in December
| Park | High / low °F | Crowds | Weather |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area | 54° / 36° | Moderate | Cool |
| Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park | 55° / 35° | Moderate | Mild, wet |
| Blue Ridge Parkway | 46° / 26° | Moderate | Cool |
| Mammoth Cave National Park | 51° / 33° | Moderate | Cool |
| Congaree National Park | 61° / 37° | Busy | Mild, wet |
Closures, reservations and alerts: Great Smoky Mountains National Park on nps.gov
All twelve months at Great Smoky Mountains · National parks to visit in December