Climate & Weather

The Spring Blossom Report

Updated May 22, 2013 -- The first flush of bloom has passed in some Traverse City cherry orchards, but others are just coming into their own.

Sweet cherry trees are looking particularly lovely now, and the best viewing will be likely in coastal areas at the northern ends of Old Mission and Leelanau peninsulas.

As cherry blossoms begin to fade over next week, look for a second flush of bloom as the region's many apple trees burst into flower!   

The Traverse City area's location on the 45th Parallel (midway between the North Pole and the equator) provides it with four distinct seasons, making it a year-round destination.

Spring erupts in millions of cherry and apple blossoms, while summer's warm temperatures are perfect for boating, swimming, golf, hiking and sightseeing.

Autumn lingers in Traverse City, as the trees near Lake Michigan, notably on the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas, turn color later than those farther inland.

Its proximity to Lake  Michigan moderates temperature extremes while providing average annual snowfall of 125" to 145" -- perfect conditions for winter recreation.

Traverse City Average Temperatures

                           Average High         Average Low

January                     27                             14

February                   30                             14

March                       40                             22

April                          53                             32

May                           67                             42

June                          77                             52

July                            81                             58

August                       79                             57

September                70                              50

October                     58                              40

November                 44                               31

December                 32                               21