Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Gatlinburg, United States, offers a captivating blend of winter charm and crisp mountain air. With temperatures ranging from a maximum of 22°C (72°F) to a chilly minimum of -16°C (4°F), visitors can expect a diverse weather experience. On average, temperatures hover around 6°C (43°F), making it a perfect time for cozy indoor activities or brisk outdoor adventures. The month sees 136 mm (5.4 in) of precipitation across 13 days, contributing to the region's lush landscapes and vibrant winter scenery. Humidity levels sit at a notable 88%, adding to the season’s brisk feel. Whether you’re drawn to the festive atmosphere or the stunning natural beauty, Gatlinburg’s December weather sets the stage for an unforgettable winter getaway.
As December settles in Gatlinburg, the temperatures take a notable plunge, with minimums dipping to -16°C (4°F). However, the festive spirit remains unchilled, as the average temperature hovers around 6°C (43°F), providing a refreshingly crisp atmosphere perfect for holiday activities. Daytime highs can reach up to 22°C (72°F), offering a pleasant reprieve from the winter cold. This month stands out for its dramatic shift into winter, characterized by a transition from the milder autumn months that precede it, making Gatlinburg a stunning winter wonderland where cozy moments are best enjoyed by a crackling fire.
In Gatlinburg during December, precipitation reaches an average of 136 mm (5.4 in), marking a notable increase from the preceding month, November, which sees only 82 mm (3.2 in). This increase contributes to a trend of heightened rainfall as the year comes to a close, with December experiencing 13 rainy days. The wettest months of the year appear to be clustered towards the beginning of winter, as shown by December's figures, which align closely with the yearly high averages in January and February. The consistent rainfall throughout the last two months of the year not only enriches the local landscape but also sets the stage for the stunning winter scenery that Gatlinburg is renowned for during the holiday season.
In December, Gatlinburg experiences a notable increase in humidity, reaching 88%, which is in line with the heightened levels observed in both November and the earlier winter months of January and February. This trend of higher humidity during the colder months contrasts sharply with the drier conditions seen in late summer and early fall, where humidity levels dip to 76% in August and September. As the year winds down, the elevated humidity not only influences the chill in the air but also adds to the enchanting winter atmosphere of this picturesque town, making it a cozy retreat for holiday visitors.
As December rolls in Gatlinburg, the UV Index dips to a moderate level of 4, providing a reprieve after months of intense sun exposure. This trend marks a noticeable decline from the summer's extreme levels, where a UV Index of 11 demanded quick shade and sunscreen for just 10 minutes of burn time. As we transition from the high sun of summer to winter's milder rays, December offers a more forgiving 30 minutes before skin begins to redden. With the previous months showcasing increasingly high UV levels, this shift highlights the seasonal variations in sun intensity, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities with a bit more safety. For more detailed insights about UV levels throughout the year, visit Gatlinburg UV Index.
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December in Gatlinburg presents a charming blend of seasonal beauty and moderate sunshine, offering 171 hours of daylight. As the year winds down, daylight hours dip, reflecting a gradual decline from the summer peak of 327 hours in July. This trend underscores Gatlinburg's vibrant summers, where sunshine is abundant, typically brightening the lush landscapes of blooming nature. However, as autumn ushers in cooler temperatures, the sunshine eases off, with December showcasing a cozy yet limited stretch of daylight compared to the lush, sun-drenched months prior. Visitors during this time can relish the scenic winter ambiance, while still enjoying a fair amount of sunlight that gently illuminates the enchanting Smoky Mountains.
In Gatlinburg, the likelihood of sunny weather in December stands at 42%, which positions it favorably among the year's months. Although December’s sunshine potential is lower than the peak seen in April and September, it remains a significant improvement over the gloomier winter months of January and February. Interestingly, November, with a 51% chance, sets the stage for a relatively sunny transition into December, hinting at a gradual increase in sunlit days as the year closes. This trend suggests that while the holiday season remains largely chilly, there are still opportunities to bask in the winter sun.
In Gatlinburg, United States, the rhythm of the seasons is beautifully reflected in the changing daylight duration throughout the year. As the calendar turns to December, daylight wanes to a mere 9 hours, marking the shortest days of the year. This decline is a gentle reminder of the transition from the brightness of summer, where June, July, and August bask in 14 hours of sunlight, to the more muted brightness of winter. While January and February offer a slight return to 10 hours, the overall trend showcases a steady reduction from **spring’s rejuvenating 13 hours in April to the dwindling warmth of December. The ebb and flow of daylight not only sets the scene for cozy winter nights but also invites residents and visitors alike to embrace the enchanting spirit of the season.
In Gatlinburg, December brings a noticeable uptick in wind speed, with an average of 2.4 m/s (5 mph), marking it as one of the breeziest months of the year. This slight increase from the preceding months highlights a seasonal shift, as the otherwise gentle winds of summer—peaking at just 1.6 m/s in July—give way to a brisk chill that accompanies winter’s onset. Interestingly, while earlier months like June and August experience calmer days, the transition into winter sees those winds steadily rising, with December enjoying one of the highest averages. This refreshing gustiness not only adds to the crispness of the season but also enhances the charm of Gatlinburg's festive atmosphere during the holiday celebrations.
The weather in Gatlinburg changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of December's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Gatlinburg and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January feature similar weather patterns, with both months experiencing a notable range in temperatures. In December, temperatures fluctuate from a minimum of -16°C (4°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F). The month's precipitation totals 136 mm (5.4 in), occurring over 13 days, and humidity levels are relatively high at 88%. In contrast, January sees slightly colder temperatures, with a minimum of -17°C (1°F) and a maximum of 23°C (73°F), averaging around 4°C (39°F). Precipitation in January decreases to 97 mm (3.8 in) while maintaining the same frequency of rainy days, and humidity drops slightly to 86%. For a closer look at January conditions, check out Gatlinburg weather in January.
December and February present notable differences in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -16°C (4°F), while the average hovers around 6°C (43°F) and can peak at 22°C (72°F). The month experiences an average of 136 mm (5.4 in) of precipitation over 13 days, with a relatively high humidity level of 88%. In contrast, February showcases slightly milder temperatures, with minimums around -9°C (16°F), an average of 7°C (45°F), and maximums reaching up to 25°C (77°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 153 mm (6.0 in) spread over 14 days, accompanied by a slightly lower humidity of 86%. For more detailed information, you can check the Gatlinburg weather in February.
In December, temperatures can drop as low as -16°C (4°F), with an average temperature of around 6°C (43°F) and highs reaching up to 22°C (72°F). The month experiences about 136 mm (5.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 13 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 88%. In contrast, March sees a similar average low of -17°C (1°F) but an increase in average temperatures to 10°C (50°F) and maximums hitting 28°C (82°F). March also has a slightly higher precipitation of 145 mm (5.7 in) over 15 days, with humidity levels dropping slightly to 86%. For more details on the weather patterns during this month, check out Gatlinburg weather in March.
In December, temperatures in Gatlinburg can range from a chilly -16°C (4°F) at their lowest to a mild 22°C (72°F) at their highest, with an average temperature of around 6°C (43°F). The month sees significant precipitation, averaging 136 mm (5.4 in) across 13 rainy days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 88%.
In contrast, April experiences a notable warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (26°F) to a maximum of 30°C (85°F) and an average of 13°C (57°F). While the precipitation is slightly higher at 138 mm (5.4 in) over 12 days, the humidity decreases to 82%. For more details on April weather specifically, check out Gatlinburg weather in April.
December and May showcase distinctly different weather characteristics. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -16°C (4°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F) and a maximum reaching 22°C (72°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 136 mm (5.4 in) over about 13 days, alongside relatively high humidity at 88%. Conversely, May brings a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to an average of 18°C (66°F) and a maximum of 30°C (87°F). Precipitation in May is slightly lower at 131 mm (5.2 in) over 14 days, and humidity remains close at 85%. For a detailed look at the climate during this vibrant spring month, check out Gatlinburg weather in May.
December and June in Gatlinburg present contrasting weather experiences. December sees a wider temperature range, with lows plunging to -16°C (4°F) and highs peaking at 22°C (72°F), resulting in an average temperature of 6°C (43°F). This month also experiences 136 mm (5.4 in) of precipitation over 13 days, accompanied by high humidity at 88%. In contrast, June offers milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), averaging around 22°C (71°F). Although June receives slightly less precipitation at 111 mm (4.4 in) over 15 days, the humidity remains relatively high at 85%. For more information, you can check out Gatlinburg weather in June.
December and July present contrasting weather conditions in Gatlinburg, with December experiencing much colder temperatures and higher humidity. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -16°C (4°F) to a mild maximum of 22°C (72°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 136 mm (5.4 in) over 13 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 88%. In stark contrast, July offers a warm and humid climate, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 13°C (56°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F) and an average of 24°C (75°F). With 118 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation over 16 days and slightly lower humidity at 83%, July is characterized by a more tropical feel. For a detailed look at weather specifics, you can check Gatlinburg weather in July.
In comparing the weather of December and August, we see a stark contrast in temperatures and overall conditions. December experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -16°C (4°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), while August boasts a milder climate with minimums around 12°C (55°F) and average temperatures reaching 23°C (74°F). Furthermore, humidity levels are higher in December at 88%, compared to 76% in August, contributing to a more crisp winter feel. Precipitation is fairly similar, with December receiving 136 mm (5.4 in) over 13 days and August encountering 129 mm (5.1 in) over 15 days. This variation underscores the significant seasonal differences in Gatlinburg’s weather patterns. For more detailed information, check out Gatlinburg weather in August.
December weather is characterized by much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -16°C (4°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), compared to September's milder range, which sees temperatures from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) up to a maximum of 33°C (91°F). In December, the precipitation is slightly higher at 136 mm (5.4 in) over 13 days, while September has 106 mm (4.2 in) scattered over 12 days. Furthermore, humidity levels are notably higher in December at 88%, in contrast to September's more comfortable 76%. For more details on September's weather, visit Gatlinburg weather in September.
December weather is significantly colder than October, with average temperatures ranging from a brisk -16°C (4°F) to a comfortable 22°C (72°F), while October experiences milder conditions with a minimum of -3°C (28°F) and a maximum of 33°C (91°F). Precipitation levels are similar in both months, with December receiving 136 mm (5.4 in) over 13 days and October recording 132 mm (5.2 in) over 11 days. Furthermore, December's humidity is notably higher at 88%, compared to October's 80%. Overall, October offers warmer temperatures and less humidity, making it a more pleasant month for outdoor activities. For further details, check out Gatlinburg weather in October.
December weather tends to be colder and wetter than November's, with average temperatures shifting from November's 8°C (47°F) to 6°C (43°F) in December. The maximum temperatures also decrease slightly, with December peaking at 22°C (72°F), compared to November's 25°C (77°F). In terms of precipitation, December sees a notable increase to 136 mm (5.4 in) over 13 days, while November has 82 mm (3.2 in) over 10 days. Both months share the same humidity levels at 88%, but December's cooler temperatures and higher precipitation make it a notably different experience. For more details about November weather, check out Gatlinburg weather in November.
As December rolls into Gatlinburg, the weather takes a notable turn, marking a distinct shift from the milder months that preceded it. Visitors can expect cooler temperatures, with an average chill settling in at around 6°C (43°F), while nighttime lows can drop dramatically, occasionally plunging to -16°C (4°F). The month is characterized by increased precipitation, contributing to the area’s high humidity levels of 88%. With over a third of the month experiencing rainfall, December offers a different kind of beauty—perfect for cozy cabin stays and festive holiday spirit amidst the smoky mountains. For a deeper insight into what each month has to offer, check out Gatlinburg Climate.