Mountain towns have a way of captivating travelers with their unique mix of natural beauty, local culture, and outdoor adventure. From Asheville’s vibrant arts scene in the Blue Ridge Mountains to North Conway’s classic New England appeal in the White Mountains, these are five charming U.S. mountain towns you shouldn’t miss.
North Conway, New Hampshire
New England is home to several impressive mountain ranges, but New Hampshire’s White Mountains are particularly renowned. Mount Washington — the highest peak in New England — is famous for its severe weather and challenging hikes that draw enthusiasts from across the country. North Conway makes the perfect base for exploring it all — and there’s plenty of appeal in the town itself, too.
For starters, North Conway’s charming downtown is filled with antique shops, bookstores, and bakeries, while Schouler Park offers a pleasant green space for picnics. Additionally, as a tax-free state, New Hampshire attracts shoppers with its popular outlet stores. For those who want to admire the abundant nature but aren’t up for tackling the hikes, the historic 19th-century Conway Scenic Railroad — which boards right in town — is a fantastic way to experience New England’s quintessential beauty.
Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is surrounded by sweeping natural landscapes that range from rolling hills to lush forests and picturesque peaks. Nearby, the Blue Ridge Parkway — nicknamed “America’s Favorite Drive” for good reason — winds through the Appalachian Mountains, offering some of the best scenic views in the country.
Encircled by several national forests and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Asheville provides easy access to some of the best hiking on the East Coast. But Asheville also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with an abundance of galleries, public art installations, and music venues. Adding to Asheville’s distinctive charm is the historic architecture that adorns the downtown area. (Editor’s note: This story was published prior to the impacts of Hurricane Helene, in which Asheville suffered extensive damage; the city is currently undergoing recovery and rebuilding efforts for the foreseeable future.)
Truckee, California
Lake Tahoe is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning peaks, drawing crowds for its outdoor activities. For a similar experience with fewer people, head to Truckee, located 15 miles north of Tahoe City. Truckee offers a tranquil, laid-back atmosphere and is close to Donner Lake, which offers camping, fishing, swimming, boating, hiking, and biking in summer, along with snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter.
In addition to its natural beauty, Truckee boasts a rich heritage in logging, ice harvesting, and the Emigrant Trail. Named after a Paiute chief who assisted emigrants heading west, Truckee was also a key site for railroad construction in the 1860s. The historic downtown retains its Old West charm with antique brick buildings housing art galleries, unique shops, and restaurants.
Davis, West Virginia
With a population of roughly 600 residents, Davis is an under-the-radar town on the Blackwater River in West Virginia’s Canaan Valley. Davis offers easy access to a number of state parks and trail systems for hiking and mountain biking. Blackwater Falls State Park is especially popular for its striking 62-foot waterfall, one of the most photographed places in the state. Canaan Valley Resort State Park draws mountain bike enthusiasts during the warmer months and skiers in the winter, while Dolly Sods Wilderness is known for its rugged terrain, dramatic vistas, and wildlife viewing.
On a rest day, discover the Highlands Scenic Highway, which offers picturesque views of the mountains and valleys, along with access to various other charming small towns. Despite its compact size, Davis boasts excellent local food, breweries, and unique shops and restaurants housed in historic buildings.
Durango, Colorado
Often overlooked for larger mountain towns such as Aspen, Durango is a hidden gem in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains. Nearby, Mesa Verde National Park boasts over 4,700 archaeological sites, including the famed 700-year-old cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo peoples. Meanwhile, San Juan National Forest provides serene forests and scenic lakes such as Vallecito and Lake Nighthorse for a refreshing dip.
After a day of adventure, enjoy a craft beer at one of Durango’s many local breweries or a delicious meal in the historic downtown area. Be sure to stroll down Main Avenue to browse art galleries, visit the Railroad Museum, and lunch like a local at 11th Street Station food truck park. Finally, a visit to Durango isn’t complete without a ride on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway. This historic journey offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s railway heritage, all while showcasing Colorado’s breathtaking scenery.
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