11 Feb Plan a Mountain Getaway This Year at These Top U.S. Destinations
When the mountains call, it’s time to trade city noise for the grandeur of nature. These getaways are a remedy for your busy life, as you get to unwind and recharge. Some travelers enjoy the thrill of new adventures, whereas others look forward to soaking in scenic trails. Regardless, it’s your chance to head for the hills and explore the best America offers.
From Appalachia to the Rockies, each range has charming towns with vibrant local cultures and high-quality resorts. Here are five of the best mountain getaway destinations to enjoy on vacation.
Plan a Mountain Getaway This Year at These Top U.S. Destinations
Lake Placid, New York
Lake Placid is in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York. The location has hosted the Winter Olympics twice, making it an American adventure hub.
When visiting in the winter, you can ski and hike at Whiteface Mountain and Mount Jo. The range features over 40 mountains exceeding 4,000 feet, offering plenty of outdoor activities in both the cold and warm seasons.
Taos, New Mexico
Head to New Mexico’s high desert to see Taos, one of the oldest communities in America. The town has a world-class art scene in front of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Visit the location for its Native American and Spanish colonial history, which are featured in the architecture and museums.
For outdoor activities, visit the Taos Ski Valley for snowboarding and steep skiing. Meanwhile, the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge offers postcard-worthy views year-round.
Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
The Blue Ridge Mountains have a gap at the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. Here, Harpers Ferry provides excellent East Coast views from the Maryland Heights Trail.
Experts say the town marks the halfway point on the Appalachian Trail, offering a natural break on the long hike. Travelers visit for stellar hiking, panoramic views and Civil War history.
Telluride, Colorado
Beyond Aspen and Vail, Telluride is among the best mountain towns in Colorado. The destination is hidden in the San Juan Mountains and is famous for its skiing and summer festivals.
Local resorts are surrounded by wilderness and tall peaks, from the Black Iron Bowl to Palmyra Peak. Besides skiing, you can enjoy dog-sled tours, gondola rides and year-round festivals.
Sun Valley, Idaho
Head north through the Rocky Mountains to find Sun Valley, one of America’s underrated mountain towns. This location has year-round hiking, biking and fishing, with plenty of sunshine. During the summer, Sun Valley gets 15 hours of sun a day, so bring sunscreen on your next trip.
Visitors come for skiing on Bald Mountain and stay for the history. Sun Valley is famous for the old mining town, the Ore Wagon Museum and the Hemingway Memorial.
The Benefits of Outdoor Travel
Mountain vacations go beyond fresh air and natural beauty. Your trip offers numerous physical and mental benefits, helping you recharge and recuperate. Here are five benefits of these trips.
- Health improvement: Experts say outdoor time forms healthier habits, helping your physical and social health.
- Unique scenery: Mountain towns feature panoramic summit views and alpine lakes for photo opportunities.
- Digital disconnect: Most regions have limited cell service, encouraging better presence and outdoor connections.
- Stargazing: Low light pollution lets you see clear night skies and observe stars and planets.
- Wellness opportunities: Besides skiing, mountain towns offer wellness activities like spas and slow-flow yoga.
Planning a Visit to America’s Mountain Ranges
Forested trails and white ski slopes are only two reasons to plan a mountain getaway. From Telluride to Taos, these charming destinations offer history and lasting memories. Use your vacation to recharge your spirit and reconnect with nature.
Author bio: Cora Gold is a travel writer and editor of women’s lifestyle magazine, Revivalist, where she covers destination ideas, packing tips and travel advice for women. Connect with Cora on LinkedIn, Pinterest and X
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