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Sometimes, you don’t want to take a vacation to the beach or the lake. Maybe you want to head up into the mountains where it’s quiet and far from the rest of the world. Or maybe you just love the look of a mountain town, against the backdrop of a gorgeous mountain range. Either way, you’re in for a great vacation at any of these destinations.
Today, we’re breaking down some of the best destinations for a mountain vacation. Pack your bags and get ready for an adventure at a higher elevation!
Asheville, North Carolina, is a smaller town in the Appalachian Mountains that sits on the western side of the state. It’s got a “crunchy” reputation, as it’s known for its numerous breweries, concert venues, and “hip” destinations. The city has gorgeous historic architecture, like the Grove Arcade and the dome-topped Basilica of Saint Lawrence.
There’s also a stunning, sprawling manor called the Biltmore Estate, which is open for tours from the public. The Biltmore displays beautiful, authentic paintings from masters like Renoir, and is a popular destination for travelers looking to soak in some refined culture while exploring the ancient Appalachian Mountains.
Another stunning mountain destination in the Appalachian Mountains is Gatlinburg, Tennessee. This town is nestled in the eastern flank of the state, far from the hustle and bustle of Nashville. It’s a fantastic destination for families, as the famous amusement park Dollywood is located in the city. It’s accompanied by numerous tourist attractions all up and down the main strip.
Visitors who are more interested in the beautiful natural landscape of the region can also visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is just a short drive from the city proper. It’s one of the most beautiful national parks in the US, and it’s well worth the trip to see.
Telluride might be well-known for its skiing and snowboarding peaks, but it’s a great place to visit even outside of peak snow season. Visiting in the spring gives travelers a chance to enjoy the city’s vibrant downtown district and enjoy the numerous artists’ displays throughout the region.
Those who travel to Telluride in the summer can soak up some sunshine while horseback riding or exploring hiking trails like Jud Wiebe and the Bridal Veil Trail. And, as you might expect for a mountain town at a high elevation, Telluride is a perfect spot to see fall foliage when the weather gets crisp outside!
