When it comes to mountain towns, the U.S. offers a wide range of destinations, including famous spots like Aspen, Jackson Hole, and Park City. While these locations certainly boast stunning views and plenty of attractions, they can be pricey for those on a tight budget. However, if you’re willing to skip the high-end allure, there are many other mountain towns that offer breathtaking scenery and a wealth of activities without breaking the bank.
Deadwood, South Dakota
One of America’s most picturesque mountain towns, Deadwood is nestled within the Black Hills National Forest and was famously depicted in the HBO series of the same name. Founded in the 1870s following a legendary gold strike, it quickly attracted thousands eager to strike it rich or profit from those who did. While today many visit to try their luck at the casinos, there’s plenty to enjoy without gambling. History enthusiasts will appreciate the Adams Museum, the oldest history museum in the Black Hills, which showcases artifacts related to Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane, the Gold Rush, and more. Strolling through the town, you can admire historic homes and buildings, and in the summer, enjoy dramatic reenactments of old-fashioned shootouts. Nearby, a range of recreational activities awaits, including fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and skiing at Terry Peak Ski Resort, just a short drive away.
Stowe, Vermont
One of Vermont’s most enchanting towns, Stowe is a postcard-worthy gem nestled in the Green Mountains. It’s renowned for its activities centered around the state’s highest peak, Mount Mansfield, and is a top destination for skiers in the Northeast. In the warmer months, Stowe offers a plethora of hiking trails, while autumn draws visitors to experience a stunning tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows across its scenic landscapes, which are adorned with charming church steeples and covered bridges.
Laramie, Wyoming
Laramie, a quintessential Western town, offers a delightful blend of historic charm and modern amenities. It’s the gateway to the Snowy Range Scenic Byway, one of the most breathtaking drives, leading you through dramatic mountain peaks, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife such as mule deer, elk, and moose. The town itself boasts well-preserved architecture that reflects its Wild West past, while also thriving as a vibrant college community centered around the state’s only university, which features a remarkable geological museum. Explore the many murals by local artists, enjoy the local breweries, and experience a lively nightlife scene.
Leadville, Colorado
While pricey Aspen isn’t far away, there aren’t many outside of Colorado who are familiar with Leadville, but if you visit, you’ll not only find more affordable accommodation and great eats but all kinds of things to do. Ski Cooper is just a short drive away, offering budget-friendly slopes without the lift lines, and during the warmer months, there are nearly an endless number of hikes to enjoy. The country’s highest incorporated town, it sits at an elevation of 10,152 feet, and 70 square blocks of the downtown area have been designated as a National Historic Landmark of Victorian architecture. You might take a tour of the Matchless Mine and explore the many museums, including the Heritage Museum, the Healy House, and Dexter Cabin. You can stand on the stage where Oscar Wilde performed at the Tabor Opera House and browse lots of interesting shops, including antique stores.
Berea, Kentucky
Berea is likely the most affordable mountain town to visit in the entire country and a favored weekend getaway in Kentucky. Renowned as the “Folk Arts and Crafts Capital of Kentucky,” Berea offers a rich arts scene as well as a variety of outdoor activities. The Indian Fort Mountain Trail, one of the area’s most popular hikes, meanders through the Berea College Forest and ascends to a promontory with stunning views of the town. For cycling enthusiasts, there are several family-friendly trails, including routes in Berea City Park and the three-mile Mayde Beebe White Trail. After your adventures, satisfy your appetite at the Historic Boone Tavern Hotel & Restaurant, known for its homemade dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
Hot Springs, Arkansas
Nestled in the scenic Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas, Hot Springs is a top weekend getaway destination that attracts visitors from around the world to its naturally warm, healing waters. It’s an ideal retreat after a day of hiking or exploring the local lakes. At Lake Hamilton, you can enjoy activities like lake cruises, jet skiing, water skiing, fishing, and boating. Meanwhile, Lake Catherine features a marina with canoe and boat rentals and is famous for its excellent fishing, with species such as rainbow trout, striped bass, largemouth bass, walleye, and catfish. In town, you’ll find a vibrant music scene with more venues per capita than anywhere else in the state, as well as a thriving dining scene with numerous fantastic independent restaurants.
Dahlonega, Georgia
Nestled in the Blue Mountains, Dahlonega is an affordable mountain town renowned for its stunning scenery. With over 20 trails just a short drive away, it’s a haven for day hikes and backpacking adventures in the Chattahoochee National Forest. Wine lovers will find plenty to enjoy, with several tasting rooms including the Georgia Winery of Dahlonega, Crane Creek Dahlonega, and Canvas & Cork. History buffs should make time for the Dahlonega Gold Museum, which highlights Georgia’s gold rush that began two decades before California’s famous 1849 gold rush.
Virginia City, Montana
Once the largest town in the inland Northwest, Virginia City extracted over $90 million in gold from the region. Today, it stands as one of America’s most intriguing ghost towns, with its population dwindling from around 10,000 in 1864 to just over 100. Despite its size, the town offers a wealth of attractions. Its historic homes and buildings have been meticulously restored, maintaining an authentic Old West ambiance with over 100 preserved structures, period furnishings, and artifacts. Visitors can experience the charm of the past by taking a stagecoach ride or traveling on a narrow-gauge train. Evenings are a highlight with performances by the renowned Virginia City Players, who deliver melodrama and vaudeville in the historic opera house.
