The town of Highlands is unique for a lot of reasons, but our location tops the list. We sit at more than 4,100 feet, near the center of one of only two temperate rainforests in the U.S., which gives us a climate unlike the rest of the state. That makes Highlands, NC, weather a little unpredictable, so we have compiled the average temperature for each month and season to help you plan your trip. Select the time of year that works for you and book your stay with Highlands Vacation Rentals.
Summer in Highlands, NC
Summer is our most popular travel season, and for good reason. The high elevation keeps temperatures cool and comfortable, offering a cool respite from the rest of the state. It’s the time of year when everything is in full swing: all the restaurants are open, local musicians are playing outdoor concerts, and endless outdoor activities are at your fingertips. It is the perfect time for family vacations, outdoor adventures, and chasing the region’s waterfalls.
- June: High 75 degrees, low 53 degrees
- July: High 78 degrees, low 57 degrees
- August: High 76 degrees, low 56 degrees
Fall in Highlands, NC
Fall is one of the most magical seasons in Highlands, and things start to slow down once the summer crowds head home. Fall color usually peaks around mid-October, offering a beautiful backdrop for scenic drives, hiking and biking. It is also the time of year you can spot the Shadow of the Bear at the Rhodes Big View Overlook and attend the popular Highlands Food & Wine Festival.
- September: High 71 degrees, low 51 degrees
- October: High 62 degrees, low 40 degrees
- November: High 52 degrees, low 32 degrees
Winter in Highlands, NC
Temperatures drop in the winter months, with highs in the 40s and lows in the mid-20s. We do get snow, but don’t expect a blanket of white fluffy snow all season, since we average only around 13 inches a year. It is still cool enough to enjoy plenty of winter fun without freezing your tail off, like snow tubing and ice skating at Highlands Outpost, or skiing and snowboarding a short drive away at Ski Sapphire Valley.
- December: High 44 degrees, low 26 degrees
- January: High 42 degrees, low 23 degrees
- February: High 46 degrees, low 25 degrees
Spring in Highlands, NC
Spring breathes new life into Highlands, with warming temperatures and wildflowers blooming along the trails. It is also prime time to catch the waterfalls at their fullest, fed by winter snowmelt, and to spot the annual bird migration passing through. Plan a family-friendly spring break trip or just enjoy the mountains before the summer crowds roll in.
- March: High 54 degrees, low 31 degrees
- April: High 62 degrees, low 38 degrees
- May: High 69 degrees, low 46 degrees
Plan Your Stay Around the Season That Suits You
Whether you come for cool summer evenings, blazing fall color, quiet snowy trails or waterfalls at full roar in spring, Highlands has a season for every kind of trip. Browse our available properties and book your stay with Highlands Vacation Rentals today!
