Chattanooga, TN: When to Go and Weather

Weather: Chattanooga weather depends on the city's location in southeastern Tennessee near the borders of Alabama and Georgia. It's situated between two mountain ranges - the Appalachian and the Cumberland - that protect the city from harsh weather and strong winds. The moderate climate includes four seasons.

Summer: In the heat of summer, particularly in July, the temperatures soar into the 90s nearly everyday. The average temperature is 88 degrees F and the average monthly rainfall is 4.2 inches.

Fall: Temperatures cool off significantly in fall. September stays warm, with temperatures in the 70s, but by October and November, average highs are in the lower 60s. Sunshine graces the region several days of the week during the fall season. The average temperature is 55 degrees F and the average monthly rainfall is 4 inches.

Winter: Chattanooga weather is chilly in winter. Overnight temperatures dip down into the 20s in January and snow, which is quick to melt after hitting the ground, isn't uncommon. The average temperature is 42 degrees F and the average monthly rainfall is 5 inches.

Spring: Spring brings plenty of variation to Chattanooga weather patterns. It often snows in March, which is the wettest month of the year, but temperatures push into the 70s and 80s in April and May. The average temperature is 68 degrees F and the average monthly rainfall is 6 inches.

Looking for local weather reports? Switch on the TV to WRCB 3. or WTVC News Channel 9.

When to Go: Peak Season

Summer draws big crowds to Chattanooga. Although July brings plenty of rain, the humidity is high every day, and the temperature pushes 90 most days of the week, tourists aren't discouraged: boats cruise along the riverfront, cyclists ride around the city, and outdoor types head to nearby rivers for whitewater rafting and hiking. The beauty of Chattanooga's natural landscape, which is at its finest during the hot, sunny summer, attracts the highest number of visitors during this time, so hotels are often booked to capacity. You'll bump into crowds of vacationing families both downtown and in the city's mountainous surroundings during July and August.

When to Go: Off Season

After the winter holidays, Chattanooga's off season begins. The months of January, February, and March are characterized by relatively mild wintry weather with occasional snow showers and temperatures in the 40s. But just because whitewater rafting is out of the question doesn't mean that the Chattanooga tourism scene is dead: the area's famous trains and caverns are wonderful to visit at this time, as are the aquarium and the museums. Apart from the Christmas and New Year stretch, when Chattanooga is busy with visitors, you'll find discounted rates on hotel rooms and fewer lines at attractions around the city.

When to Go: Shoulder Season

Spring and fall are shoulder seasons in Chattanooga. Temperatures are comfortable and cooler than in summer, and though spring sees occasional rainstorms, many days are sunny. In autumn, colorful changing foliage enlivens hiking trails and outdoor areas, and the crisp Chattanooga weather pleases fishermen and sightseers alike. Hotel rates are average on weekends, when families and couples roll into town for a getaway, but during the week, both outdoor areas and indoor city attractions are quiet. The shoulder season is an excellent time to beat the crowds on the hiking trails and avoid the city's sweltering summer temperatures.

• Mon

   

  Drizzle

  60  53

• Tue

   

  Drizzle

  53  32

• Wed

   

  Mostly Sunny

  51  29

• Thu

   

  Sunny

  56  33

• Fri

   

  Partly Cloudy

  53  37

• Sat

   

  Mostly Cloudy

  47  33

• Sun

   

  Partly Cloudy

  42  29

Get more information on Chattanooga weather.