Worth a visit: America’s 25 most impressive mountain towns

Are you a fan of magnificent hills and breathtaking landscapes? Then these mountain towns should be on your list when you plan your next vacation. Reader's Digest invites you to pay attention to the 25 most impressive mountain cities in America.

Whitesburg, Kentucky. Photo: Shutterstock

Dalonega, Georgia

Dahlonega is a fabulous destination nestled in the North Georgia Mountains with its breathtaking scenery and rural charm. Sample local wines at the tasting rooms surrounding the main square, visit the Gold Museum, visit the 1836 Courthouse, or head to Amicola Falls State Park.

Asheville, North Carolina

Take an excursion to Biltmore Manor (George Washington's Vanderbilt mansion and the most famous house in the state) and the North Carolina Arboretum for a rejuvenating massage at Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville. This American-style Alpine paradise also spans 17 farmers markets that sell seasonal produce, freshly baked bread, and homemade cheeses.

Townsend, Tennessee

Planning a trip to Tennessee? Townsend definitely deserves a pit stop. Firstly, this is one of the three “gates” to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. But the sights do not end there. In the caves of Takalichi there are underground passages, stalagmites and stalactites, and in the cellars of Cades Cove you can drink a sip of another wine.

Menton, Alabama

Perched atop Lookout Mountain in DeKalb County, Mentone—the highest town in the state—is a quiet community with fresh air, chirping birds and fragrant wildflowers. There's no doubt you'll want to enjoy nature on a mountain near you—try hiking to DeSoto Falls.

Bottino, North Dakota

Nestled at the base of Turtle Mountain, Bottineau is a bastion of natural beauty. The endless events, warm hospitality and mouth-watering traditions (who can pass up the chance to try Pride Dairy's famous vanilla ice cream?) make this friendly place a great place to visit year-round.

Thompsonville, MI

Thompsonville is a tiny village near Mount Crystal. The resort, open year-round, offers ski lifts, rock climbing, laser tag, golf and classic lodging. Check out Michigan Art Heritage Park, a 30-acre preserve with sculptures, long walking trails, and an outdoor amphitheater.

On the subject: The best US cities where you can comfortably live on $ 50 000 per year

Whitesburg, Kentucky

Kentucky conjures up images of horse racing, bourbon and baseball. But not only. Whitesburg is a former coal mining enclave that now boasts an artistic scene. The once forgotten area has recently begun a new life: it is full of new bars, studios and places where you can listen to live music. Hikers looking to connect with nature should head to Pine Mountain.

Custer, South Dakota

Located at the edge of Custer State Park, Crown Jewel of the Black Hills is almost like Disney World. The city has a unique character and history. Bonus: Famous attractions such as Mount Rushmore, Mad Horse Monument and Wind Cave National Park are within walking distance.

Sun Valley, Idaho

Whether you're a beginner or an advanced skier, Sun Valley has slopes suitable for all skill levels. Dog sledding and ice skating are also available here. Scenic walks, golfing and rafting are good reasons to visit this place in summer. There are also wonderful restaurants and shops here.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Originally a fur trading hub, Jackson Hole remains faithful to its Old West roots and offers many outdoor adventures. This is the perfect base camp for exploring the beauties of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Ready to unpack your gear? You can splurge on Amangani Resort or stay at Anvil Hotel, a renovated 1950s house in the city center. Did you know that Teton County is one of the 10 places in America where people live the longest?

Bend Oregon

Located three hours southeast of Portland on the Deschutes River, Bend is the antidote to blues. Mild weather and 300 sunny days a year mean you can enjoy the great outdoors 24/7/365. Stroll along the boardwalk or hike up to Pilot Butte Volcano. In case it rains, you can always go to the High Desert Museum.

Darby Montana

There are tons of hidden treasures in this state—and Darby is one of them. Surrounded by the Bitterroot Mountains, Darby exudes the spirit of the true American West. This charming city offers landscaped parks, trails for hikers of all skill levels, and authentic lodging.

On the subject: The most scenic and romantic road in the USA: what you need to know about traveling on the famous highway in California

Aspen, Colorado

Aspen attracts a crowd of people with the possibility of outdoor recreation and an exceptional reputation (high-class restaurants, boutiques and five-star hotels). Winter and snow-capped peaks add color to this place. Hiking, cycling and horse riding complete the irresistible landscape. Be sure to visit the Wheeler Opera House, built during the 19th-century mountain boom.

Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff is much more than just a great base for exploring famous attractions like the Grand Canyon and Route 66. For starters, it's adjacent to North America's largest Ponderosa pine forest. Access to Humphreys Peak (Arizona's tallest mountain) is definitely another feather in her cap! Wondering where to stay? Pitch a tent at one of the many campsites, rent a motorhome or rent a cozy independent cabin.

Park City Utah

Nestled high in the Wasatch Mountains, Park City is known for its beautiful slopes. The holy grail for winter sports enthusiasts boasts two world-class resorts and more than 400 miles of trails. And in the summer there are luxury hotels and spas.

Telluride, Colorado

From fishing and hiking to cross-country skiing and snowboarding, this once-Gold Rush town offers fun all year round. Alternatively, thrill seekers can take a gondola ride. A great idea is to check out the Telluride Historical Museum and see a show at the Sheridan Opera House.

Woodstock, New York

Woodstock, better known as the mastermind of the legendary music festival, can do a lot. Artists, dreamers and freethinkers have long flocked to this hippie paradise. No matter how many decades pass, its laid-back atmosphere will never collapse. The idyllic landscape abounds with trees, family farms and scenic peaks, including Mount Overluk. By the way, it’s cheaper to come to Woodstock in the fall.

Carrabassett Valley, Maine

Located in western Maine, this city is worth a visit in winter or summer. Avid skiers and snowboarders flock to Sugarloaf Mountain during the snowy season. When the temperature rises, hikers and bikers come here (the Bigelow Nature Preserve and the Appalachian Trail are recommended. Fewer crowds are another reason to come to Carrabassett Valley in the summer.

North Conway, New Hampshire

New Hampshire can sometimes get overlooked in travel plans, but North Conway can change that. Its rolling hills, glistening lakes and sprawling forests are a postcard-perfect landscape. You can stay overnight at the Stonehurst estate.

Ligonier, PA

Unless you're a Pennsylvania native, Ligonier is probably not on your radar. And in vain. This typical small town, built in the 1760s, is teeming with historical sites and traditional architecture. Traveling with children? There are many green spaces and family activities here. Summer vacation is not complete without a visit to Idlewild & SoakZone, the most popular amusement park in the area. The snowy season lasts from late November to early April.

Fish Camp, California

The best thing about Fish Camp is that it is a 10-minute drive from the south entrance to Yosemite National Park. However, travelers should not rush. Sitting at an altitude of 4990 feet (1520 meters), this tiny community charms with its high-rise views and quaint hotels. For a full-service resort, consider Tenaya Lodge.

On the subject: 10 US national parks with the most unusual and picturesque views

Truckee California

Truckee, located on the California-Nevada border, is advertised as "a real town with an unreal backyard." From the sparkling waters and sandy shores of Lake Tahoe to Donner Memorial State Park, which features campgrounds, multi-use trails, and rock climbing, it's stunning. Boca Reservoir offers salmon fishing.

Idyllfield california

Need a break from the hustle and bustle? This city attracts with a relaxed atmosphere, and maybe with shops and cafes located so well. The smell of cedar and pine floating in the air encourages visitors to stop. Although this is not a reason to sit back, especially when you can organize fantastic hiking, fishing and picnics.

South Lake Tahoe, California

Beaches, ski resorts, and forests are just some of the reasons Californians and visitors love this city. Spend a few days enjoying the spectacular views from the Heavenly Gondola, taking an adventurous off-road excursion, or wandering the wooded trails through Van Sickle State Park. For high-stakes fun, head to the casino in nearby Stateline, Nevada.

Cordoba, Alaska

Situated near the mouth of the Copper River in Prince William Sound, Cordova is filled with crystal clear water, dense forests, narrow mountain ridges, jagged peaks and wetlands. In the summer you can enjoy fishing and kayaking, and in the winter you can enjoy skiing and glacier tours. Wildlife photography is a popular pastime throughout the year.

Read also on ForumDaily:

Three US cities where our people move if they don’t want to learn English

10 cities in the USA where you can rent a home for $ 600 per month or less

What our Russians do not like: personal experience of an immigrant from Russia

Dependence on cars and one supermarket per city: why ours is unusual in one-story America

Do you want more important and interesting news about life in the USA and immigration to America? — support us donate! Also subscribe to our page Facebook. Select the “Priority in display” option and read us first. Also, don't forget to subscribe to our РєР ° РЅР ° Р »РІ Telegram  and Instagram- there is a lot of interesting things there. And join thousands of readers ForumDaily New York — there you will find a lot of interesting and positive information about life in the metropolis.