Asheville in the Great Smoky Mountains has a surprisingly mild and pleasant climate. In the spring, from March to May, and in the autumn, between September and early November, the temperatures are very comfortable. These are the best times to visit Asheville.
Beautiful flowers abound in the spring, and the fall foliage colors are brilliant. Even though Asheville sits at a relatively high elevation, the humidity can be quite noticeable during the summer months. But summer is still a popular time to visit because the humidity is not as high as it is in the cities. The temperatures in the winter are colder but there is very little snow that falls in Asheville.
January is Asheville’s coldest month with average low temperatures dropping to 28°F (-2°C). Average highs peak at 47°F (8°C). January also brings 4 inches (10 cm) of snowfall to Asheville, the highest amount in the whole year. Skiers typically make their way to nearby ski resorts during this time of the year.
In February, high temperatures increase slightly as average highs hover just over 51°F (11°C) while average low temperatures remain. Snowfall decreases by an inch and is replaced by rain showers, making Asheville’s environment relatively icy.
Asheville weather in March: Temperatures climb in March, signifying the end of winter. A bit of snowfall, about 2 inches (5 cm) can still be expected as spring starts to arrive. Low temperatures are 37?°F (3°C).
In April,temperatures continue to rise as average high temperatures start hitting 67°F (20°C). Average lows typically won’t drop any further than 45°F (7°C). Snowfall tapers off with just a 1 inch (3 cm) average.
May symbolizes the end of Asheville’s short spring. Average high temperatures of 75°F (24°C) can be expected while low temperatures hover at about 53°F (12°C).
| Month | Average High (°F) | Average Low (°F) | Average Precipitation (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 44 | 27 | 3.8 |
| February | 48 | 29 | 3.9 |
| March | 57 | 36 | 4.6 |
| April | 66 | 44 | 3.6 |
| May | 74 | 52 | 4.1 |
| June | 81 | 60 | 4.7 |
| July | 84 | 64 | 4.9 |
| August | 83 | 63 | 4.3 |
| September | 77 | 57 | 3.6 |
| October | 67 | 46 | 3.1 |
| November | 56 | 36 | 3.6 |
| December | 47 | 29 | 3.9 |
Asheville weather in June: Summer arrives in Asheville in June, bringing high temperatures of 82°F (28°C) along with it. The summer months are the perfect time to head out into the great outdoors and hike trails or head to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
July is the hottest month of the year in Asheville with average highs pushing 85°F (30°C) and average lows of 65°F (18°C).
In August, there is a very slight decrease in the heat as average temperatures go down a degree. August is Asheville’s rainiest month with an average precipitation just above 3 inches (87 mm).
Asheville weather in September: Summer tapers off and starts transitioning to fall in September with temperatures going back down to the high 70s. Low temperatures are 57°F (14°C).
In October, the weather cools further as average high temperatures rest at 68°F (20°C) and average low temperatures drop to 46°F (8°C). October is the driest month of the year for Asheville with only 2 inches (54 mm) of rain expected. Foliage begins to change color this month and outdoor activities continue to be popular ways to pass the time.
November sees another significant decrease in temperature with average high and low temperatures ranging between 58°F (15°C) and 38°F (3°C).
December is the second coldest month in Asheville and the beginning of winter. The city averages 3 inches (8 cm) of snow with an average high temperature of 49°F (9°C). Low temperatures are 30°C (-1°C). Air turns crisp during this time of the year and snow capped mountains can be viewed from a distance.
The best seasons to visit the mountains in North Carolina are spring and fall. Late March to early May are when the mountains and forests are at their brightest and most colorful while September through October are prime months to experience North Carolina’s foliage. Mountain climbing, hiking and trekking is best from June to August and water sports like rafting and boating are best enjoyed in September. Verified Resource: National Weather Service
