Atlanta, Michigan Weather by Month

Atlanta, located in northern Michigan, is a quaint town surrounded by natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Situated approximately 20 miles south of the Mackinac Bridge, Atlanta is part of the United States and is affiliated with the state of Michigan. With a population of around 800 residents, Atlanta offers a small-town atmosphere with a strong sense of community. The town is known for its scenic forests, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Major landmarks in Atlanta include the Elk Country Visitor Center, Atlanta State Forest Campground, and Clear Lake State Park.

Geographical Overview

Atlanta is situated in the northern Lower Peninsula of Michigan, surrounded by dense forests, rolling hills, and numerous lakes and rivers. The town is located in Montmorency County and is bordered by the Huron National Forest to the west and the Mackinaw State Forest to the north. The area is known for its diverse wildlife, including deer, elk, black bear, and numerous bird species, making it a popular destination for hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Atlanta’s location near the Au Sable River and other waterways also provides opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and trout fishing.

Population

Atlanta has a population of approximately 800 residents, making it a small but close-knit community. The town’s population is primarily composed of families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts who are drawn to its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Residents of Atlanta take pride in their town’s scenic surroundings and outdoor lifestyle, participating in local events, festivals, and community initiatives to preserve and celebrate the area’s natural heritage.

Major Landmarks

While Atlanta is a small town, it is home to several notable landmarks and points of interest that showcase its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Some of the major landmarks in Atlanta include:

• Elk Country Visitor Center: Located on the outskirts of town, the Elk Country Visitor Center offers exhibits, educational programs, and viewing opportunities for elk and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Visitors can learn about the history, ecology, and conservation efforts related to Michigan’s elk population, as well as explore nearby hiking trails and wildlife viewing areas.
• Atlanta State Forest Campground: This rustic campground offers campsites, picnic areas, and access to hiking and biking trails in the Atlanta State Forest. Visitors can enjoy camping under the stars, roasting marshmallows around the campfire, and exploring the surrounding forest and streams. The campground provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
• Clear Lake State Park: Located just south of Atlanta, Clear Lake State Park offers a sandy beach, swimming area, and boat launch on the shores of Clear Lake. The park also features picnic areas, hiking trails, and a campground for overnight stays. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, and wildlife watching, as well as exploring the park’s scenic trails and natural beauty.

Climate and Weather Overview

Atlanta experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons with variable weather patterns. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are warm and humid, with occasional thunderstorms. Spring and fall bring milder temperatures and changing foliage, making them ideal seasons for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and leaf-peeping. Overall, Atlanta’s climate offers a mix of outdoor recreation opportunities year-round, with each season bringing its own unique charms and challenges.

Average Monthly Climate Data

Weather by Month

January

January in Atlanta is cold and snowy, with an average temperature of 21.4°F. The month typically sees moderate precipitation, averaging 1.96 inches, with 12 sunny days on average. Outdoor activities during this month are limited due to the cold weather and snow cover, but residents and visitors can still enjoy winter sports such as skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing on the area’s frozen lakes and ponds. Indoor activities such as visiting museums, attending cultural events, and cozying up by the fireplace with a good book are popular during this time of year.

February

February brings continued cold temperatures to Atlanta, with an average temperature of 24.8°F. The month sees slightly lower precipitation than January, averaging 1.65 inches, with 11 sunny days on average. Outdoor activities may include snowmobiling, ice skating, and winter hikes, as well as ice fishing on the area’s frozen lakes and ponds. Indoor activities such as crafting, cooking, and attending community events provide opportunities for residents to stay active and engaged during the winter months.

March

March marks the transition to spring in Atlanta, with temperatures beginning to warm up and signs of new growth emerging. The average temperature is 34.9°F, with increased precipitation averaging 2.13 inches and 13 sunny days on average. Outdoor activities may include hiking, birdwatching, and maple syrup tapping as the landscape comes to life with blooming flowers and budding trees. March also offers opportunities for ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing before the snow melts and the spring thaw begins.

April

April in Atlanta brings milder temperatures and increasing precipitation, with an average temperature of 46.5°F and 2.62 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 14 sunny days on average, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching as the landscape awakens from its winter slumber. Residents and visitors can also enjoy exploring local parks and nature reserves, attending outdoor concerts and farmers’ markets, and participating in Earth Day events to celebrate the arrival of the new season.

May

May heralds the arrival of warmer temperatures and abundant sunshine in Atlanta, with an average temperature of 57.8°F and 2.98 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 16 sunny days on average, providing perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and fishing in the area’s scenic parks and waterways, or take leisurely strolls along the lakeshore and downtown area. May also offers opportunities for gardening, birdwatching, and attending outdoor festivals and events to celebrate the season’s bounty.

June

June in Atlanta is warm and sunny, with temperatures averaging 67.6°F and 3.32 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 18 sunny days on average, providing ideal conditions for outdoor activities. Residents and visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, and kayaking on the area’s lakes and ponds, or explore the town’s parks and trails for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. June also offers opportunities for outdoor concerts, farmers’ markets, and cultural events, as well as fishing tournaments, boat races, and community festivals to kick off the summer season.

July

July is the peak of summer in Atlanta, with hot temperatures and plenty of sunshine, averaging 72.9°F and 3.43 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 19 sunny days on average, providing ample opportunities for outdoor fun. Residents and visitors can cool off with a dip in the lakes or rivers, relax on the sandy beaches, or enjoy water sports such as boating, tubing, and waterskiing. July also offers opportunities for outdoor concerts, fireworks displays, and community festivals, as well as fishing derbies, regattas, and picnics in the park for residents of all ages to enjoy.

August

In August, summer continues in full swing in Atlanta, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, averaging 71.0°F and 3.51 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 18 sunny days on average, providing perfect conditions for outdoor activities. Residents and visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and paddleboarding on the area’s lakes and ponds, or explore the town’s parks and trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting. August also offers opportunities for outdoor concerts, food festivals, and cultural events, as well as stargazing and camping under the summer sky.

September

September brings mild temperatures and decreasing precipitation to Atlanta, with an average temperature of 62.0°F and 3.32 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 16 sunny days on average, providing ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and leaf-peeping in the area’s scenic parks and nature reserves, or take scenic drives to admire the changing foliage. September also offers opportunities for apple picking, pumpkin patches, and fall festivals, as well as outdoor concerts, art fairs, and historical tours to celebrate the arrival of autumn.

October

October in Atlanta is characterized by cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, with an average temperature of 49.6°F and 3.09 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 14 sunny days on average, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and leaf-peeping in the area’s scenic parks and nature reserves, or take leisurely drives along the lakeshore and countryside. October also offers opportunities for apple picking, hayrides, and fall festivals, as well as pumpkin carving, haunted hayrides, and Halloween celebrations to embrace the spirit of the season.

November

November marks the transition to winter in Atlanta, with cooler temperatures and increasing precipitation, averaging 39.6°F and 2.75 inches respectively. The month sees 12 sunny days on average, providing opportunities for outdoor activities before the arrival of winter weather. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography in the area’s scenic parks and nature reserves, or take scenic drives to admire the changing foliage. November also offers opportunities for Thanksgiving celebrations, holiday markets, and craft fairs, as well as indoor activities such as cooking classes, art workshops, and holiday concerts to prepare for the festive season ahead.

December

December in Atlanta is cold and often snowy, with an average temperature of 27.6°F and 2.22 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 11 sunny days on average, providing opportunities for outdoor activities before the arrival of winter weather. Residents and visitors can enjoy ice skating, sledding, and snowshoeing in the area’s parks and open spaces, or take scenic drives to admire the festive holiday lights and decorations. December also offers opportunities for holiday shopping, visits with Santa Claus, and seasonal events such as tree lighting ceremonies, holiday concerts, and Christmas markets to spread joy and cheer throughout the community.