Best Mountain Vacations in the US

Fresh air, jaw-dropping views, plenty of space, and life at a slower pace. If all of this sounds incredibly appealing to you right now, it’s time you take your very own mountain getaway.

From the Rocky Mountains to the Great Smoky Mountains to the Adirondacks, America’s landscape consists of many breathing mountain ranges with countless small towns and cities nestled within their valleys. So where do you even begin to start your search for must-visit mountain towns in the U.S.? Below are our top picks for you.

Lake Placid, New York

Skiers, snowboarders, ice skaters, boaters, and mountain climbers alike are drawn to the natural outdoor playground of Lake Placid. Nestled in the Adirondack Mountains coupled with the large shimmering lake, it’s easy to understand why this New York village has played host to the Winter Olympic Games twice.

Don’t miss:

• Boating or ice skating on Mirror Lake
• Adirondack Park
• Ski Whiteface Mountain or drive the Whiteface Memorial Highway for scenic views
• Winter Olympic Museum
• John Brown Farm State Historic Site
• Hike Mount Jo

Where to stay: Lake Placid Club Lodges

Asheville, North Carolina

It can be argued that the stunning Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the best scenic drives to take in the entire country. Snaking through lush foliage and towering Blue Ridge Mountains, this 469-mile road cutting through Asheville is a mesmerizing experience travelers will never forget. Combined with incredibly historic architecture and a vibrant arts scene, this charming North Carolina town offers the perfect mix of culture and natural beauty.

Don’t miss:

• Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway
• Tour the mansions and gardens of the Biltmore Estate
• Camp or hike the Pisgah National Forest
• Walk the North Carolina Arboretum garden trails
• See the Spanish architecture of Basilica of St. Lawrence

Where to stay: Asheville Vacation Villas

Stowe, Vermont

Nestled in a valley at the foot of Mount Mansfield, the highest peak in the state, lies the quaint town of Stowe. Known—naturally—for skiing/snowboarding and hiking, Stowe offers jaw-dropping views of the peaks and valleys of northern Vermont, and there are many different ways to take in the scenic views. Aside from the mountainscape, the town’s downtown is every bit as charming and romantic as you’d expect from a small Vermont town.

Don’t miss:

• Hike to the top of Mount Mansfield via Smugglers’ Notch
• Ski or snowboard at Stowe Mountain Resort
• Hike to Moss Glen Falls or Bingham Falls– both hiking trails that lead to cascading waterfalls
• Visit and enjoy outdoor recreation at the Trapp Family Lodge
• Hot air ballooning
• Zipline from the top of Mount Mansfield

Where to stay: Trapp Family Lodge and Guest Houses

Leavenworth, Washington

This Bavarian-style village encompassed by snowy Cascade Mountain peaks is a top destination for those visiting the Pacific Northwest. Leavenworth is a hub for world-class skiing, hiking, biking, and cliff climbing. But there’s still plenty to do and see for those seeking a more laid back getaway. The city has a handful of amazing wineries and breweries for tastings and tours overlooking the scenic area.

Don’t miss:

• The Leavenworth Reindeer Farm
• Mountain Springs Lodge sleigh rides
• Hiking in Waterfront Park or Lake Wenatchee State Park
• Icicle Brewing Company
• Silvara Cellars winery
• Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum

Where to stay: WorldMark Leavenworth

Park City, Utah

Located by the Wasatch Range of the Rocky Mountains, it’s no secret that Park City is a haven for snow sport enthusiasts. Popular Deer Valley and Park City Mountain ski resorts are visitor favorites. But this mountain city also has much more to offer for those seeking entertaining hustle and bustle off the ski slopes as well. Travelers visit downtown Main Street for its 1800s charm, but stay for the delicious food scene, nightlife, upscale spas, and more.

Don’t miss:

• Snow sports at Deer Valley Resort or Park City Mountain Resort
• The Sundance Film Festival every January
• Historic Main Street walking tours
• Hiking, biking, and zip lining in the warmer months
• Visit the Utah Olympic Park

Where to stay: Marriott’s MountainSide

Telluride, Colorado

The list of scenic towns in the Colorado Rockies goes on and on, but we think Telluride is somewhere truly special. While it may not have the luxe or flash of similar state ski towns like Aspen or Breckenridge, the breathtaking beauty and historic charm make a visit worth your while. Small town living in this serene Old Western town among the San Juan Mountains helps visitors to slow down and admire the beauty and bliss of mountain life—with public transportation even including a free gondola ride between Telluride and Mountain Village. Of course, we’d be remiss not to also mention the incredible slopes of Telluride Ski Resort, offering trails suitable for all different skill levels.

Don’t miss:

• Skiing/snowboarding at Telluride Ski Resort
• Hike Bear Creek Falls
• Telluride Historical Museum
• Sheridan Opera House
• Attend a music or film festival at Town Park
• Visit the shops, restaurants, and more along the Cobblestone streets of Mountain Village

Where to stay: Fairmont Heritage Franz Klammer Lodge

Jackson, Wyoming

Jackson is a well-known favorite amongst outdoor enthusiasts. With three ski resorts and two national parks packed into one picture-perfect mountain town, travelers will not be at a loss for activities to fill the itinerary. When not exploring the mountains, visit the center of town at the Jackson Town Square to see the iconic elk-antler arches.

Don’t miss:

• Ski/snowboard at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Snow King Mountain Resort or Grand Targhee Resort
• Explore Yellowstone National Park
• Hike in Grand Teton National Park
• Granite Hot Springs
• National Elk Refuge
• Whitewater rafting on Snake River

Where to stay: Teton Club

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

A trip to Gatlinburg puts you right in the heart of the 250,000-acre Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this Tennessee town has no shortage of sweeping mountain vistas and outdoor exploration. There’s also plenty of attractions aside from the ski slopes and hiking trails to keep entertained all vacation long.

Don’t miss:

• Camping, hiking, or fishing in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Ober Gatlinburg ski resort & amusement park
• Gatlinburg Space Needle observation tower
• Gatlinburg SkyLift Park
• Ripley’s Aquarium

Where to stay: Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort