Does it snow in Tennessee? The answer is YES, it does snow in Tennessee but in a few places.
Tennessee is a lovely place with plenty to do. It is best known for producing exquisite food that other states cannot match.
Particularly spicy chicken dishes! So, do you want to have a white Christmas in Tennessee?
Let’s talk about the chances of your goal becoming a reality.
Tennessee, also known as the Volunteer State, is a state in the United States’ southeastern area.
It is the 36th largest state in the nation, with an area of 106,846 square kilometers.
It is well-known for its proximity (it is located between eight states) and for being home to the magnificent Smoky Mountains.
Tennessee’s highest point is 6,443 feet (2,025 meters) above sea level, while its lowest position is the Mississippi River, which is 178 feet (54 meters) above sea level.
But, does it snow in Tennessee?
Because of its closeness to the Gulf of Mexico, most of Tennessee has a humid subtropical climate with mild, wet winters and warm summers.
High elevation areas, such as the Appalachians, are an exception because they have a cool mountain environment.
Tennessee, like most southern states, experiences snowfall during the winter months.
It’s worth noting, however, that the snow isn’t much and doesn’t accumulate in many areas of the state other than the high elevation northeastern regions.
In this post, I will be answering in detail the question: Does it snow in Tennessee?
So, Does it Snow in Tennessee?
The answer to this question is YES.
Snow is typically a rare treat at lower elevations, falling in significant amounts only a few times each winter.
If you want to see snow in the state, you’ll just have to be fortunate.
It all depends on when and where you travel within the state.
Because Tennessee is such a big state, you will not see snow everywhere.
This implies that if you want to see snow, you’ll need to plan your trip accordingly.
So, let’s take a look at some Tennessee destinations and see if they satisfy your holiday expectations.
When Does it Snow in Tennessee?
As previously mentioned, Tennessee winters are usually mild, with the exception of the mountainous regions of the east, where temperatures can drop below freezing.
Tennessee’s winter lasts from November to February, despite the fact that it is rarely joined by snow.
It has long been assumed that the months of January and February are the most likely to see snow.
If snow does occur, it may accumulate up to 4 inches (102 millimeters) in January and 2 inches (51 millimeters) in February.
November
In Tennessee, November signifies the start of winter, or the cold season.
Temperatures in the state range from highs of 56 degrees Fahrenheit during the day to lows of 39 degrees Fahrenheit at night.
Snowfall is barely heard of as temperatures stay well above freezing.
December
In Tennessee, December is another chilly month.
The everyday average temperature often drops.
Temperatures typically range from 49 degrees Fahrenheit to 33 degrees Fahrenheit.
As the temperature drops, snow flurries begin to fall in various areas of the state.
Snow occurs for three snowfall days on average and builds to a depth of one inch for the month.
January
Tennessee’s coolest and snowiest month is January.
Daily average temperatures have dropped, with highs of 48 degrees Fahrenheit and lows of 32 degrees Fahrenheit reported.
Bristol’s lowest temperature ever recorded is a chilling 24 degrees Fahrenheit in January.
Nashville has 4.7 precipitation days during the month and receives up to 0.94 inches (24 millimeters) of snow.
February
In Tennessee, February is traditionally the last month of winter.
Temperatures increase throughout the day, with highs of 52 degrees Fahrenheit and lows of 33 degrees Fahrenheit.
Temperatures rarely exceed zero degrees Fahrenheit, as they did in January, resulting in snowfall.
In February, Nashville receives an average of 4.1 precipitation days and a snow depth of 0.71 inches (18mm).
Where Does it Snow in Tennessee?
Does it Snow in Nashville Tennessee?
YES, it does snow in Nashville.
Nashville is Tennessee’s capital and the state’s most populous city.
The city has a population of 0.7 million inhabitants and is located at an elevation of 597 feet (182 meters).
Snowfall in Nashville begins in November and continues through April.
Nashville receives precipitation on 14.6 days per year on average, and the snow accumulates to a depth of 2.99 inches. (76 millimeters)
Does it Snow in Memphis Tennessee?
YES, it does snow in Memphis.
Memphis is a metropolis that stretches along the Mississippi River.
It is Tennessee’s second most populous city and has an average altitude of 337 feet (103 meters) above sea level.
The coldest month in Memphis is January, with an average temperature of 30 degrees Fahrenheit (-1 degree Celsius) reported.
Memphis receives 4 inches (102 millimeters) of snow per year.
So plan your time appropriately. Unfortunately, the snowy season begins immediately after Christmas.
On New Year’s Eve, however, you can still have a wonderful time in the snow. The average quantity of snowfall is 1.5 inches.
So, practice ducking and diving in case a snowball battle breaks out.
This is one of the finest cities in Tennessee to visit during the winter.
So, schedule your flight, pack your bags, and let’s go!
Does it Snow in Knoxville?
YES, it does snow in Knoxville.
Knoxville is Tennessee’s third biggest city.
The city’s coldest month is January, when average temps drop to 28 degrees Fahrenheit. (-2.2 degrees Celsius).
Every winter, Knoxville receives up to 6 inches (152 millimeters) of snow.
Does it Snow in Bristol?
Bristol is without a question one of Tennessee’s snowiest cities.
Because of its high height, the city has a cool subtropical environment with cooler summer temperatures.
Bristol gets about 13 inches (330 millimeters) of snow per year, with a large part of it falling in January.
Does it Snow in Mountain City?
Mountain City, a Johnson County town, has the most snowfall reported in Tennessee.
This town, located at a height of 2418 feet (737 meters), has a subtropical highland climate with snowy winters.
The coldest month in Mountain City is December, with highs of 28.4 degrees Fahrenheit and lows of 15.6 degrees Fahrenheit.
Mountain City gets approximately 13.5 inches (343mm) of snow per year, placing it first among Tennessee’s snowy cities and towns.
Does it Snow in Pigeon Forge Tennessee?
YES, it does snow but on rare occasion.
I’d approximate that you have a 60 percent chance of seeing now in Pigeon Forge if you go during the winter season.
It snows quite frequently in the metropolis. However, some years see no snow at all.
So, if you want to witness the snow in Pigeon Forge, you’ll have to take a chance.
Pigeon Forge’s snowy season lasts from the close of November to the end of March.
So, to avoid disappointment, make sure to plan your trip accordingly.
Does it Snow in Chattanooga Tennessee?
YES, it does snow in Chattanooga.
The best aspect is that, unlike Pigeon Forge, Chattanooga is certain to have snow during the winter season.
Winter lasts from the 21st of December to the 20th of March in Chattanooga.
If you want to visit a snow wonderland, plan your vacation during these months.
This is also one of Tennessee’s most beautiful cities to explore in the winter.
The snow is typically 1.7 inches thick, providing plenty of space for snowmen and snow angels.
The way the snow falls on trees and structures is also breathtaking.
So, if you want a guaranteed white Christmas, come to Chattanooga.
Does it Snow in Gatlinburg Tennessee?
YES, it does snow in Gatlinburg.
You could always plan an outing to Gatlinburg if you’re looking for additional spots in Tennessee where you can find an icy wonderland in the wintertime.
This is one of the towns in Tennessee with the most fluctuating snowfall during the winter season.
Gatlinburg, in fact, receives more snow than any of the other towns we’ve mentioned.
Every year, Gatlinburg receives up to 9 inches of snow. That is, to say the least, remarkable.
The high amount of snowfall that Gatlinburg experiences is mainly due to the city’s altitude of 1,280 feet.
We all know that the higher you go, the cooler it becomes. The more snow there is, the cooler it becomes.
If you’d like to witness the snowfall in Gatlinburg, ensure you visit between December 18th and March 15th.
Ski Resorts in Tennessee
Ski Resort Ober Gatlinburg
Ober Gatlinburg is Tennessee’s only ski resort.
It’s near Gatlinburg, a town about an hour’s journey southeast of Knoxville, on the Great Smoky Mountains.
If you decide to take a winter vacation to Tennessee, the mountainous terrain and scenery at this resort will provide you with good value for your money.
Ober Gatlinburg is a winter sports and snow enthusiast’s paradise.
Skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and ice skating are among the sports available at the resort.
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned skier, Ober Gatlinburg will not disappoint you with its 6.2 km of skiable slope divided into various difficulty categories.
The ski resort has four ski lifts that take visitors to the resort’s summit and then leave them to explore the snowy slopes.
Places to Visit in Tennessee When it Snows
Nashville
Naturally, you will want to make the most of your winter vacation.
So, what are some activities in Nashville to do when it snows?
First and foremost, you must go to Percy Warner Park.
The area is already stunning in the summer.
So, can you picture what you’ll witness during the winter?
It will feel like you’ve stepped into a movie.
You will be encircled by snow-covered trees.
Expect to see fewer animals because the majority of them will be hibernating. So, at the very least, you won’t encounter any bears!
Radnor Lake State Park is another great place to explore when it snows.
This is another breathtaking sight that you will never forget.
During the winter, the area is completely covered in snow.
It even has a lake, making the entire park appear like something out of a fairytale.
Unfortunately, you will not be able to swim in the water.
If the lake hasn’t frozen over, the water temperature will be exceedingly low.
That means that if you jump in too fast, your body may go into shock. Hypothermia and frostbite may affect your body leading to potential death or medical emergency.
Carry some warm clothes and snow boots instead to explore the park’s many hiking paths.
If you want to see gorgeous architecture while also being able to hide from the cold, you can go to Historic Rock Castle.
The fortress was constructed in the 18th century.
It was later converted into a museum. It is certainly a sight to behold when snow falls on the castle.
The beautiful architectural structure covered in snow appears to be from a fairy story.
When you enter the palace, you will feel like an ice queen!
Pigeon Forge
There are also many fun activities to do in the snow in Pigeon Forge.
I strongly suggest taking a ride on the Rocky Top Mountain Coaster if you want to speed through the snowflakes as they gently crash into your face.
This is a fairly large rollercoaster that is available all year. It naturally travels at breakneck speeds.
As a result, you may require something to shield your skin from the icy wind and snow.
If roller coasters aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other activities to do in Pigeon Forge when it snows.
Another location in Tennessee that transforms into a winter wonderland when it snows is Pigeon Forge’s Island.
In the center of the property is a lovely pond.
Toss a coin and make a wish if you’re feeling fortunate. Who can say? It might just happen.
If you’re looking for a thrilling experience, The Island in Pigeon Forge has a variety of fun rides for you to try.
If you want to spend a relaxing evening in this winter wonderland, take a walk through the park and watch the snowflakes settle on the tops of the trees that surround you.
Did you realize you can have a snowy adventure in Tennessee without having to freeze to death on the outdoors? Yeah, it is possible!
Make a stop at Pigeon Forge Snow if you’re searching for a warmer snowy adventure.
Pigeon Forge Snow is a snow tubing facility where you don’t have to wear ten pairs of hosiery.
The snow tubing slopes are located inside.
As a result, you will always be shielded from the cold.
What a treat! Pigeon Forge Snow has a 4.8-star average review on Google.
This implies that the trip will be well worth your time.
If you have small children, you should take them to the indoor snow field.
It’ll be an event they’ll remember for weeks, if not months. Have fun sliding and gliding!
Chattanooga
Nothing, however, compares to the paradise that is the Rock City Gardens.
This experience will genuinely transport you to the role of a fairytale character.
A beautiful garden and a raging waterfall can be found in the neighborhood.
When snow falls on the flowers in the garden, it totally changes the atmosphere.
When it snows in Tennessee, this is one of the most beautiful places to explore.
That is true! Lookout Mountain is another great place to explore when it snows in Chattanooga.
Lookout Mountain offers more than just scenic mountain views.
In reality, once you reach the summit of the mountain, you’ll be able to see all of the breathtaking scenery below you from a bird’s eye perspective.
Can you picture the gorgeous snow-covered mountains and forests?
You can tour one of the hiking trails with your snowshoes.
Just make sure to pack a scarf, coat, and gloves. Keep in mind that the higher you go, the cooler it becomes!
Do you want to learn more about the Civil War?
If you are, make sure to stay at Sunset Rock. Don’t be concerned.
No matter how lovely the sunset is, it will not melt the snow.
Hike up to the lookout rock for a bird’s eye perspective of the vast fields and woodlands below.
What makes this so distinct from a journey to Lookout Mountain?
The location you’ll be staring at in awe is the same one where the Civil War took place.
It will be like going back in time. Thankfully, there will be no battles or drama.
Beautiful scenery with small snowflakes dropping all around you.
Memphis
There aren’t many places that can rival with Memphis when it comes to winter wonderlands.
This is mainly due to the city’s breathtaking parks and gardens, which look stunning in the snow.
The Memphis Botanic Garden is the first destination that should be at the top of your itinerary. Do you enjoy reading folk tales?
If you do, you’ll enjoy these Botanic Gardens.
Beautiful flowers and other plant life abound in the grounds.
When it begins to snow, the snowflakes softly rest on the leaves and petals of the flowers, creating a picturesque scene.
This is an ideal location for a romantic night with that special someone.
It’s also a wonderful place to go for a walk in the woods and clear your mind.
Just remember to dress warmly and bring a flask of hot coffee with you to keep warm!
Dixon Gallery & Gardens is one of my favorite spots to go in Memphis during the winter.
This is mainly because you get the best of both worlds.
You can walk through the beautiful gardens while watching the snow descend around you.
If it gets too chilly outside, Dixon Gallery & Gardens has a plan B in place.
There is an indoor art museum where you can view beautiful artwork.
Some of these works of art were created by locals, while others were created by globally renowned artists.
The best aspect is that, because the gallery is inside, you can remove your earmuffs and gloves.
Yes, you will be fully protected from the bitter cold outside.
You’ll also be able to view the snow-covered gardens on the way to the gallery.
Gatlinburg
Are you contemplating a vacation to Gatlinburg? Do you want to go snowmobiling?
If you answered yes, you should definitely make a bucket list of things to do.
So, here are the best activities to do in Gatlinburg while it snows.
Let’s begin with my personal preferred winter activity in Gatlinburg, the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park.
What makes this area so amazing?
You’ll be sitting comfortably in a sky lift seat as snowflakes descend around you. That’s not even the most exciting aspect.
From your seat, you’ll be able to see breathtaking, snowy mountain views that will make you feel like you’re on top of the world.
In addition, you’ll get a bird’s eye perspective of the snowy hills and buildings.
Are you searching for a more adventurous and stimulating activity?
If so, you should put Great Smoky Mountains National Park on your winter goal list.
The Great Smoky Mountains National area is a stunning forest terrain area.
Put on your snowshoes and explore one of the park’s hiking paths.
You’ll see breathtaking scenery along the route that will leave you speechless.
Just remember to dress warmly because you will be trekking through snow.
Last but not least, let’s discuss the most exciting place to enjoy a snowy day.
Ober Gatlinburg is a fantastic ski area where you can make the most of your winter vacation.
Skiing adventures allow you to face the snowy slopes. If sledding isn’t your thing, you can try snowboarding instead.
There is also an ice rink at the resort where you can fall and glide your way out of boredom. Winter vacations don’t get any better than this!
Final Thoughts on the Question: Does it Snow in Tennessee?
Does it snow in Tennessee? The answer is YES.
Despite being among the least snowy states, there are a number of places within the state that experience snow during the winter period.
So, if you’re looking for an epic winter wonderland, choose your location and prepare to embark on an adventure.
Don’t neglect to check out some of the cool spots in each city.
You don’t want your vacation to be a loss. Tennessee wins the trophy when it comes to stepping into a winter paradise!