When I think about the best vacations in the West, I immediately picture the mountains, incredibly wide open spaces, and small towns themselves. I envision some of the best places in the United States. If you’re searching for a winter wonderland or a summertime escape, I’ve got the best places for your next trip. This trip is all about visiting the finest mountain towns in the USA, really including those hidden gems like Gore Lake and the Little Switzerland of America. Get ready to travel along with me?
Best Mountain Towns to Live
Alright, let’s look at the best mountain towns to live in the USA. These towns aren’t just for tourists – they’re thriving towns with a very specific way of life. I can’t help but really feel extremely fortunate to have paid a visit to a couple of them, and some of them even feel like home right now.
Vail in Colorado is one of those places that always makes me return. The view is simple, and the town itself looks as if it came out of a postcard. It’s a place where I can truly get involved in the active part of a ski town and enjoy the quietness of life in the mountains, too.
Then there’s Aspen – another town dear to my heart. It’s the most combination of old-fashioned charm and luxury. The people are super friendly, and the mountains themselves make you feel welcome the moment you arrive. I’d the best days ever checking out the signs, shopping, and sipping on hot chocolate in this truly stunning town.
Then there’s Telluride – a little off the beaten path itself, but still it’s got all that I’d want in a mountain town. It isn’t just a summer resort itself; Telluride in winter is absolutely magical.
Gore Lake, Colorado
Have you ever heard of Gore Lake? It really seems like a secret that’s worth holding on to. Located in the heart of the Colorado Rockies itself, it consistently takes my breath away every single time I visit it.
I’ve done the hike to Gore Lake several times, and each time it really does get better. The -clear water perfectly reflects the towering peaks, and the peace is beyond measure. If you’re looking for a peaceful place in which to escape into nature, this is that place itself.
Getting there will be a bit of a challenge itself, but trust me, it’ll be worth it. You’ll be rewarded with views that make the effort absolutely worth it. This place helps you see and appreciate the beauty of the West.
The Little Switzerland of America
I’ve seen a lot of places, but nothing at all comes close to New Glarus, Wisconsin – the Little Switzerland of America itself. I know, it’s not in the mountains themselves, but it’s so pretty that it probably had to be included on the list.
New Glarus truly lives up to its name. It’s a rather small town, but with a big European sway. The streets themselves are lined with Swiss-style buildings, and you can actually find Swiss chocolates, cheeses, and Swiss restaurants.
Should you be interested in PERSONAL places that have a lot of character and history, combined with a close relationship to nature, then this town is definitely something you should see. My visits themselves have that feeling of a fairy tale – set amongst mountains, hills, and a rich history.
Vail in March
I don’t know about you, but March in Vail is my favorite time of year to visit. The snow is perfect, and the slightly warmer temperatures give it the best of both worlds.
Here in Vail, during March, the atmosphere is really fun. The town is quite busy with excitement as people enjoy the slopes themselves. I love starting my day off with a hearty breakfast at a local place in Vail village. After that, I’m heading out to the slopes with friends, and there’s nothing at all quite like carving your way through fresh powder itself under that lovely blue sky itself.
And if you don’t enjoy skiing, don’t worry – there are a lot of other things to do in Vail. The shops, restaurants, and the whole après-ski scene are truly top-class. For me, it’s about feeling the town’s spirit and experiencing a bit of an adventure itself.
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