Few places on earth conjure peace, beauty, and change like the Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee. In 2020 alone, a year that asked a bit more of each of us, thirteen million people from across the planet made their way to these mountains to refresh their spirit and slake their thirst for nature.
The four seasons never fail to leave their unmistakable imprint on the Smokies, each of us enjoying a favorite time of the year in the mountains. In fact, many of us travel to the Smokies specifically to enjoy our best-loved season. What is your favorite month in the mountains? Why?
Spring
Spring is a time of new beginnings in the Smokies, when wildflowers show off their colors and the animals stir to replenish their bellies after a long winter. Thunderstorms fill the creeks until the mountain’s many waterfalls cascade over their edges in rainbows and spray. Smoky Springs often start chilly and finish with a hot blast. Even the bears are out getting their baby and berry duties done!
Summer
Summer brings balmy days spent lounging poolside or hiking to the top of Mt Leconte to escape the valley heat. July Fourth, with the kids out of school and America celebrating, is the busiest time of the year in the Smokies. The trails are full of sightseers and shoppers fill the stores in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Rental cabins bustle with people enjoying their home away from home.
Fall
Fall may well be the most spectacular season in the Smokies. For many, the leaf change in October is a must-see, with stunning oranges, reds, and purples filling the resplendent trees. The weather is ideal with lower humidity and temperatures in the 70s. Romance is in the air with hundreds of Smoky Mountain weddings taking advantage of the drier days. The area’s convention centers are busy with a variety of shows and exhibitions.
Winter
Ahh, winter. With the holidays spurring on shoppers looking for the perfect gift, many are also drawn to the ski slopes of Ober Gatlinburg or the intimacy of a cold, snowy night spent at Le Conte Lodge, nestled close to a warm hearth. The stillness of a winter snow has us reflective and thankful for life. Things slow down during winter in the Smokies.
What a wonderful place to live and visit! Come, let the seasons wash over you with their healing touch. Let us all be grateful for spring, summer, fall, and winter in the Smoky Mountains.
