Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are the best times to visit. In spring the forest trails are lush and wildflowers line the bluffs; in fall the plateau turns orange and gold and the hiking is excellent on cool, clear days. The university is most alive during the academic year, when the campus is busy and the bookstore, coffee shops, and occasional public events are all running.
Summer is warm and humid — temperatures in the mid-80s Fahrenheit — but the plateau sits noticeably cooler than the valleys below, which is why the university was originally sited here. Summer is still pleasant for hiking early in the morning.
Winter is quiet. The campus slows during the December–January break and trail conditions can be icy after freezing rain. That said, winter brings its own appeal — dormant forest opens up views that are hidden in summer, and the stone buildings look particularly fine in low winter light.
The Sewanee Writers' Conference, held each July, draws national literary figures to campus for two weeks of readings and workshops. It's a good reason to visit in an otherwise slow season, though accommodation fills early.