Nashville, the capital of Tennessee, is renowned as “Music City, USA” due to its pivotal role in the country music industry. Home to the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame, Nashville boasts a vibrant cultural scene, embracing diverse musical genres. But does it snow in Nashville? Here’s everything you need to know about snowing in Nashville.
Does it snow in Nashville, TN?
Yes, it does snow in Nashville, TN. Nashville has witnessed an average snowfall of nearly 4.7 inches since 1991. Before that, the city used to get 8.1 inches of snow (1871-1991). The city experienced a significant snowfall in January 2024.
Nashville’s average temperature increased from 59.3 °F (1981-2010) to 60.8 °F (1991-2020). Nashville is experiencing a decline in snowfall as a result.
When does it snow in Nashville (November-March)
The snow begins falling in Nashville during the winter months, spanning from November to March. Regarding timing, the first measurable snow in Nashville typically occurs around December. The month of January and the month of February get noticeable snowfall days. March also sees occasional snowfall in the region.
November
November typically marks the beginning of the colder season, but snowfall is infrequent, with an average of 0.0 inches. There are no recorded snowy days, but the month still experiences precipitation on 8.4 days, on average.
January
In January, Nashville experiences an average snowfall of 2.0 inches over 2.0 days. Additionally, there are an average of 10.8 days with measurable precipitation, capturing a range of winter weather conditions. The city had 6.3 inches of snow on January 6th, 2022.
Nashville experienced a significant snowfall, with a record-breaking 7.6 inches in January 2024. The city transformed into a winter wonderland, affecting roadways and creating hazardous conditions for travelers.
February
February sees a slightly reduced average snowfall of 1.5 inches over 1.9 snowy days. Like January, there are 10.9 days on average with measurable precipitation, maintaining a wintry atmosphere.
March
As winter transitions to spring, March witnesses a decrease in snowfall, with an average of 0.7 inches over 0.9 snowy days. The month remains relatively wet, with 11.6 days, on average, experiencing precipitation. March (11-12), 2022, the city got 2.8 inches of snow.
December
December sees a slight increase in snowfall compared to November, with an average of 0.1 inches over 0.2 snowy days. The month remains relatively wet, with an average of 9.0 days experiencing measurable precipitation.
History of Snowstorm in Nashville
| Year | Snowfall (inches) | Historical Events |
| 1886 | 16 | Severe impact on travel, near suspension of railroad traffic |
| 1892 | 17 | Accumulated snow removal from rooftops, phone lines unaffected |
| 1929 | 15 | Thousands forced to walk, transportation issues |
| 1951 | 10 | N/A |
| 1964 | 10 | Mixed impact on residents – indoor enjoyment vs. transportation challenges |
| 2016 | 8 | Largest snow event since 2003, occurred on January 22 |
| 1892 | 17 | Largest overall snowfall recorded on March 17, during the St. Patrick’s Day Snowstorm |
Places to Enjoy Snow in Nashville, TN
Centennial Park
Centennial Park, with its Parthenon replica, turns into a serene winter scene after a
snowfall. Take a walk along the paths and soak in the tranquility of the snow-covered park.
Radnor Lake State Park
A short drive from downtown, Radnor Lake offers a peaceful retreat with snow-covered trails and a serene lake. You can explore the trails and see if you can spot any winter wildlife against the snowy backdrop.
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
Cheekwood’s gardens and historic estate are transformed into a magical snow-filled space. Cheekwood might have special winter exhibits depending on the time of year, making it a charming winter visit.
Shelby Bottoms Greenway
The Shelby Bottoms Greenway, especially along the Cumberland River, is a lovely place to enjoy the snow with its walking and biking trails.
Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park
This park near the Tennessee State Capitol provides wide-open spaces and scenic views, creating a beautiful scene with a layer of snow. Don’t forget to capture the beauty of the Capitol building surrounded by snow for memorable photographs.
Warner Parks (Percy and Edwin Warner Parks)
Explore the wooded trails of Warner Parks for a peaceful and natural winter experience. Tourists can visit the park’s overlooks for panoramic views of the snowy landscape.
Belmont University
Belmont’s historic campus features stately buildings and tree-lined paths, which become a charming sight with a dusting of snow. Check if any seasonal events or performances are happening on campus during winter.
Skiing in Nashville, TN
Nashville itself does not have a ski resort due to its location in a relatively warmer region. There are some skiing and snowboarding near Nashville where you can enjoy winter sports.
Hidden Valley Ski Resort
- Distance: 338 miles (~5 hours, 15 minutes)
- Accommodations: No onsite, but you can stay at the nearby Residence Inn & Courtyard by Marriott
- Ability Levels: Beginner and intermediate
- Features: Missouri’s largest winter resort, 16 trails, slopeside equipment rental, and onsite lodge.
Sugar Mountain Resort
- Distance: 325 miles (~5 hours, 30 minutes)
- Accommodations: Some onsite, some in town
- Experience levels: Beginner and intermediate
- Features: 21 trails, night skiing, terrain park, snowshoeing, tubing, and ice skating.
Snowshoe Mountain Resort
- Distance: 544 miles (~9 hours)
- Accommodations: No onsite, but several options nearby
- Experience levels: All levels
- Features: Largest ski area, beginner-friendly slopes in Snowshoe Basin, Western Territory for advanced skiers, and various lodging options.
Paoli Peaks Mountain Resort
- Distance: 216 miles (~3 hours, 30 minutes)
- Accommodations: No onsite, but stay in the nearby Best Western Plus French Lick.
- Ability Levels: All levels, mostly intermediate
- Features: 300 feet of vertical, 15 trails, 2 terrain parks, and Arctic Blast Tubing Park.
Beech Mountain Resort
- Distance: 330 miles (~5 hours, 45 minutes)
- Accommodations: No onsite, but many options close by
- Experience levels: Intermediate and advanced
- Features: 17 trails, 7 blue and 4 black diamond runs, ice skating, tubing, and Beech Mountain Brewing Co.
Sapphire Valley
- Distance: 324 miles (~5 hours, 35 minutes)
- Accommodations: Yes, including at Foxhunt Townhouses
- Experience levels: Beginner
- Features: Family-oriented resort, learning center slope, winter zipline, tubing run, and various lodging options.
Appalachian Ski Mountain
- Distance: 342 miles (~6 hours)
- Accommodations: Yes, multiple options
- Experience levels: All levels
- Features: First ski area in Northwestern North Carolina, 12 slopes with greens, blues, and black diamonds, and 100% night skiing.
Why does it snow in Nashville?
Winter Season: Snowfall in Nashville primarily occurs during winter, typically from December to February.
Cold Air Masses: The city may experience snow when cold air masses move southward from Canada, bringing freezing temperatures to the region.
Moisture and Precipitation: The presence of moisture, often in the form of winter storms or low-pressure systems, interacting with the cold air can lead to snowfall.
Moderate Snowfall: Nashville’s climate is generally temperate, and while snow is not as common as in northern states, the city may experience light to moderate snow events.
Winter Landscape: Snow in Nashville creates a picturesque winter landscape, transforming the city into a serene and beautiful setting during snowy periods.
Infrequent Occurrence: While snow does occur, it’s not as frequent or intense as in colder northern regions, and significant accumulations are relatively rare.
