Lauren is a writer, editor, and consultant based in New York. Her work has been featured in publications such as Travel + Leisure, SmarterTravel, AFAR, and Time Out. When she's not writing or playing with her dog, she's more than likely researching her next trip.
Lauren is a writer, editor, and consultant based in New York. Her work has been featured in publications such as Travel + Leisure, SmarterTravel, AFAR, and Time Out. When she's not writing or playing with her dog, she's more than likely researching her next trip.
Hi, I'm Lauren!Lauren is a writer, editor, and consultant based in New York. Her work has been featured in publications such as Travel + Leisure, SmarterTravel, AFAR, and Time Out. When she's not writing or playing with her dog, she's more than likely researching her next trip.
Hi, I'm Lauren!Lauren is a writer, editor, and consultant based in New York. Her work has been featured in publications such as Travel + Leisure, SmarterTravel, AFAR, and Time Out. When she's not writing or playing with her dog, she's more than likely researching her next trip.
The US is home to dozens—if not hundreds—of great mountain destinations, from tiny towns to bigger cities, that are home to everything from striking scenery and adrenaline-filled activities to quaint, laid-back vibes that set the scene for a relaxing weekend escape. Whether you’re craving the former or the latter (or perhaps a mix of both), options abound. From a much-loved ski spot in Idaho to a fairy tale–esque locale in Washington State, these nine US mountain destinations are all worth a place on your bucket list.
This laid-back resort town is chock-full of natural beauty plus prime skiing and snowboarding. If that’s not your thing— though you’re still looking for outdoor fun—try rafting, hiking, tubing, or fly fishing instead. After getting out into nature, you can also stroll through the Sun Valley Museum of Art; go stargazing; or check out the Community Library, which houses artifacts and materials from Ernest Hemingway’s time here. Finally, foodies won't want to skip taking a cooking class at the Sun Valley Culinary Institute before enjoying a meal at one of the dozens of restaurants in town.
For a gorgeous mountain getaway, look no further than Roanoke. Tucked away in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, this city offers something for every type of traveler, be it hiking, history, arts and culture, or food and wine. Speaking of the latter, embark on a guided culinary walking tour for a true taste of Roanoke’s vibrant downtown. No trip here is complete without visiting the 900-acre (364-hectare) Mill Mountain Park, where you’ll find scenic trails and the glimmering Roanoke Star landmark.
Asheville, also in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is the site of the 250-room Biltmore Estate, known as America’s largest home. Over the last decades, however, Asheville has become known for its eclectic food, drink, and arts scene. Art lovers should spend an afternoon popping in and out of the studios and galleries dotting the River Arts District, while craft beer enthusiasts can check out some of the many breweries. Take a guided walking tour or bike tour to get to know the city, or head out to some incredible hiking spots around Asheville and other nearby mountain towns.
About 90 minutes from Asheville lies the smaller—albeit equally alluring—city of Greenville. The downtown area is just as picturesque as it is walkable, with wide sidewalks, outdoor plazas, charming shops, mom-and-pop restaurants, and a stunning park with a 40-foot (12-meter) waterfall. Explore the city on foot or by segway. Then, eat and drink your way through the city by taking a breakfast tour, dessert tour, craft cocktail tour, or perhaps one that combines the best of both.
Big Sky in the Rocky Mountains is an adventure lover’s oasis thanks to its ample outdoor activities, including top-notch skiing, whitewater rafting, and ziplining. While winter is an especially popular time to visit, the dynamic destination offers plenty to see, do, and explore all year long, be it mountain biking, snowshoeing, horseback riding, golfing, or simply shopping. It’s also worth noting that Big Sky is just an hour’s drive to Yellowstone National Park, making for an easy day trip.
Despite its small size, Vail, at the base of Vail Mountain in the Rockies, is amongst America’s swankiest ski spots. But the destination welcomes visitors all year long. Beyond the slopes, you can sign up for a segway tour, bike down Vail Mountain, or hike the stunning (albeit challenging) Booth Falls Trail. Meanwhile, both Vail Village and Lionshead Village are teeming with charming Bavarian-esque buildings, cobblestone streets, and plenty of shops and restaurants.
This eastern Tennessee mountain town is best known as the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With this in mind, it makes sense that most of the area’s top attractions and activities revolve around nature. Adventure-seekers can go ziplining or hiking, while those who prefer something less strenuous can ride the Moonshine Mountain Coaster, which offers family-friendly fun and postcard-worthy scenery. Craving more thrills? Take a ghost tour of Gatlinburg—if you dare.
Woodstock is best known for being the home of the namesake 1969 music festival. Today, the small yet vibrant town, located in the foothills of the southern Catskills, is a popular weekend getaway from New York City. Learn more about the town’s musical history on a guided walking tour followed by a stroll along Tinker Street, which is lined with beloved shops, bars, and restaurants. Or, throw on your sneakers and hike Overlook Mountain, where the panoramic vistas are well worth the steep trek to the top.
Rebuilt in the ‘60s to resemble a Bavarian village, the city of Leavenworth looks and feels like it’s been lifted straight out of a storybook. Nestled in Washington’s Cascade Mountains, this dynamic destination lures travelers from all over with its Alpine-style architecture and colorful buildings. Tie up your laces and embark on a self-guided walking tour of downtown Leavenworth. But, don’t skip town without checking out Icicle Brewing Company to sip local brews, Leavenworth Reindeer Farm to interact with furry friends, and München Haus to dine on authentic German fare.
