May–June or September–October. May–June offers mild temperatures (avg highs 72–80°F), blooming landscapes, and pre-peak-season crowds. September–October combines comfortable hiking weather (avg highs 76–71°F), the nation's most celebrated fall foliage on the Blue Ridge Parkway, and a full calendar of festivals. October is the driest month. July–August are warmest but also most crowded. Avoid late September as Hurricane Helene (2024) illustrated that the region can be vulnerable to late-season tropical storms, though recovery from that event is complete
| Month | High (°F) | Low (°F) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 46 | 28 | cool & changeable |
| Feb | 50 | 31 | cool & changeable |
| Mar | 58 | 37 | cool & changeable |
| Apr | 66 | 44 | mild & changeable |
| May | 73 | 53 | warm & changeable |
| Jun | 80 | 60 | warm & changeable |
| Jul | 83 | 64 | warm & wet |
| Aug | 81 | 63 | warm & changeable |
| Sep | 76 | 58 | warm & changeable |
| Oct | 67 | 48 | mild & mostly dry |
| Nov | 56 | 37 | cool & mostly dry |
| Dec | 49 | 32 | cool & changeable |