Tag: Mountain

  • Move Over Denver! This Lively Mountain Town Should Be Your Next Colorado Adventure

    Move Over Denver! This Lively Mountain Town Should Be Your Next Colorado Adventure

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    Is Denver really that great? I gotta say, I’ve been to 30 countries and some were pretty sketchy, but the only place I’ve been attacked in broad daylight is the ‘Mile High City’.

    While this is quite unlikely to happen to you, as Denver is generally considered safe, it begs the question of whether the city is all it’s cracked up to be.

    Well, turns out I’m not the only one who thinks Denver is a bit overhyped. The folks over at Thrillist are hyping up another mountainous Colorado city nearby.

    People walking through Boulder promenade

    Going as far to say it’s Colorado’s ‘Best City’, Boulder is ready to welcome anyone and everyone in this lively, free-spirited town roughly half an hour away.

    More Than A College Town

    First and foremost, Boulder’s claim to fame is the University of Colorado, even more so as Hall of Fame NFL player Deion Sanders has recently taken the helm as Head Coach.

    The town is buzzing about its football team, but to be honest, it’s buzzing all the time simply because it’s a fun place to visit.

    Aerial view of Boulder, CO

    While, yes, you will see your fair share of college students out and about, it’s not the type of place where you’ll be side-eyed at the bar as if other patrons are telepathically telling you “you’re too old!”.

    Boulder is known for its free spirit and welcoming community hence becoming a booming arts hub sparked by the town’s creative minds.

    Aside from galleries and museums, downtown is also where you’ll find most of the action, including Pearl Street Mall, a pedestrian-only promenade similar to Denver’s 16th Street Mall, but smaller of course.

    Pearl Street Mall in Boulder

    Tip: No need to Uber around town with Boulder’s cheap HOP bus covering the most popular areas for just $3 per ride.

    A Thriving Food And Beer Scene

    Leave the sugar-coating to Boulder’s tasty bakeries, but there’s no need to hide Boulder’s hippie vibes; they embrace it!

    Expect to find a healthy dose of farm-to-table offerings throughout town, from busy farmers markets to top-rated restaurants such as Bramble & Hare.

    Boulder has something for every palate, not just the health conscious. Just keep in mind when hunger pangs strike that Boulder is lovely to enjoy outside, which is why many opt for a food truck for a quick bite.

    Beer glass in Boulder mountains

    But, where Denver has the fiercest competition is its bustling beer scene, with over a dozen breweries in close reach.

    You may be tempted to grab the can where the mountains turn blue, but Boulder’s local brews are the way to go (apologies to Sam Elliott).

    There’s just something about mountains and beer that go hand in hand and Boulder is just the place!

    Tip: One of the most beloved breweries in town is The Sanitas Brewing Company, located on the outskirts of town with great mountain views and wide selection of craft brewskies.

    Farmers Market in Boulder

    A Gateway To Astounding Natural Sites

    Boulder’s wondrous nature never seems to end, but that’s all the more reason to keep coming back, and that’s exactly what many visitors do.

    It’s not just the CU alum coming back to sports games each season; it’s your run-of-the-mill travelers too.

    Boulder’s town center is undeniably fun to visit, but outside the small cityscape is where the town shines brightest, sort of like how many prefer to go to Golden to look down on Denver rather than be in the hustle and bustle.

    Here, however, there’s no need to escape. Boulder’s seemingly boundless nature is a world on its own, but super easy to access.

    Hikers in Boulder

    Equipped with ample hiking trails, with many favoring Royal Arch Trail, Mount Sanitas, and Flagstaff Loop the most, this region is an outdoor lover’s dream.

    The famous Rocky Mountains appear a stone’s throw away, and many tourists love exploring Rocky Mountain National Park to get up close and personal with America’s most iconic mountain range.

    While summer has come to a close, mark your calendars for next summer as one of the most relaxing ways to enjoy Boulder’s outdoorsy atmosphere is to float Boulder Creek.

    Tip: For less crowds without sacrificing beauty, visit lesser-known Eldorado Canyon State Park nearby over Rocky Mountain National Park.

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  • Hidden Gem Alert! This Carolina Mountain Town Offers Untamed Beauty & Fewer Crowds

    Hidden Gem Alert! This Carolina Mountain Town Offers Untamed Beauty & Fewer Crowds

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    Charlotte may be the most popular gateway into North Carolina, but there are so many other towns you’ll be exuberantly ‘taking your shirt off and spinning it around like a helicopter’ for Petey Pablo-style!

    Okay, let’s not do that actually.

    What you can do is avoid Asheville’s crowds this fall by taking in the glorious sites of one lesser-known mountain town boasting untamed beauty and down-home charm.

    Hooker Falls in autumn near Hendersonville, NC

    While the trendy city of Cary has claimed the crown of NC’s new tourism hotspot, the lovely town of Hendersonville, just north of where the Carolinas meet, is the ultimate blissful escape to enjoy the state’s endless fall splendor.

    Explore Henderson’s Down-Home Downtown District

    You can say what you want about the South, but its famed hospitality is the real deal and seems to increase the more charming the town may be.

    While places like Asheville are great to visit, seeing fewer Starbucks and more authentic mom-and-pop shops is undeniably more enticing, like a classic soda fountain like Mike’s on Main.

    Heritage Museum in Hendersonville, NC

    Downtown Hendersonville offers a surprising variety of local eateries, from savory Italian to southern home cooking, like the top-rated Daddy D’s Suber Soulfood. One recent patron exclaimed, “We love this place! Every time we are in the area, we make sure to add Daddy D’s to our itinerary.”

    The old-timey streets are lined with delightful boutique shops, and there are a ton of museums to check out, like the Henderson County Heritage Museum, set inside a beautiful historic courthouse rivaling the looks of many state Capitol buildings.

    Mike's On Main - Hendersonville, NC

    The most captivating museum, however, may be Historic Johnson Farm.

    Although set on the outskirts of town, this former tobacco farm boasts a mix of outdoor sublimity with an intriguing history.

    Open year-round and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, take a hike through scenic forests and go on guided tours of the 10 historic 19th-century homes on-site for only $10.

    Get Outside! Hendersonville Is Made For Exploring

    Visiting Hendersonville, you can’t help but notice the town’s ambient mountains closing you in.

    Don’t fret; however, this is no escape room; the popular Blue Ridge Mountains will welcome you with open arms.

    Aerial view of Downtown Hendersonville, NC

    Whether taking the picturesque back roads or going for a tranquil hike, the Blue Ridge Mountains are a sight to behold, particularly in the fall.

    In the neighboring town of Laurel Park, Jump Off Rock is inarguably the most popular natural site offering a handful of hiking trails, but nothing too strenuous.

    Just don’t take the name too seriously as Jump Off’s peak is 3,100 feet high hence the epic views of vibrant treetops and mountainous terrain.

    You might be surprised by what else Hendersonville and the surrounding region have to offer – gorgeous waterfalls.

    Sweeping autumn views from Jump Off Rock

    Hendersonville makes for a great base to explore North Carolina’s hidden gems away from the hustle and bustle of Charlotte and flannel-wearing hipster crowds of Asheville.

    Beyond the small cityscape lies DuPont State Recreational Forest, home to more than a dozen waterfalls, but these are 5 of the most popular:

    • Triple Falls
    • Bridal Veil Falls
    • Grassy Creek Falls
    • High Falls
    • Hooker Falls
    Waterfall in DuPont State Forest

    As fun as North Carolina is to visit, the North Carolina Forest Service (NCFS) has posted some rules visitors should know before arriving, including:

    • Avoid climbing on rocks or waterfalls
    • Avoid swimming or wading less than 300′ upstream of waterfalls
    • Avoid jumping, sliding or diving from waterfalls
    • Drones are not permitted

    Savor The Fall Flavor

    While your tastebuds will be fully satisfied visiting Downtown Hendersonville, there’s some other seasonal goodies visitors should be aware of.

    Sierra Nevada Brewery Tasting Room near Hendersonville, NC

    If you’re the road trip type (who wouldn’t be in this area?), then set your sights for Chimney Rock Road where you’ll find apple orchards and pumpkin patches serving up all the fall delights, like Granddad’s Apples, fun for the whole family.

    But the grown-ups may want to level up their fall game. Nearby is Saint Paul Mountain Farms, acting as both a vineyard and orchard, where they produce local wines, hard ciders, among other adult beverages.

    The most notable name, however, is located just 10 miles from downtown. That would be Sierra Nevada’s Tasting Room, a popular beer brand serving over 20 selections, plus a ‘farm-to-table’ restaurant.

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    This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

    Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.



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  • These Are The Top 5 U.S. Mountain Towns To Visit This Winter

    These Are The Top 5 U.S. Mountain Towns To Visit This Winter

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    It’s officially cold weather season, and travelers are either trying to avoid the winter weather in sunny lands or embracing all the winter fun they can before the snow melts. 

    If you are a traveler looking for a white winter wonderland, where better to find it than a mountain town? 

    Mountain towns come in all shapes and sizes. You can find bustling towns near ski slopes full of crowds, activities, and nightlife. Or, you can cozy away at the foot of a mountain in off-the-path destinations. 

    woman playing in the snow

    We researched travel polls, experts’ advice, and first-hand travelers’ experiences to find the top 5 U.S. mountain towns to visit in the 2024 winter season.

    Have a look and see which one is for you!

    Top Mountain Town for Winter Activities: Mammoth Lakes, California

    woman hiking in snowy mountains

    Mammoth Lakes, California was voted the “#1 in Best Mountain Towns to Visit in the USA” this year by U.S. News’ readers and travel experts. Once you see the views, you’ll understand why! 

    This beautiful town is surrounded by mountains, lakes, and hot springs and boasts 1.3 million winter visitors per year on average.

    At this hot winter vacation spot, you can enjoy skiing down one of over 150 ski trails or take an excursion on a snowmobile across the country. 

    If you are looking for a place where you are sure to find loads of snow, Mammoth Lakes is an excellent spot. According to the New York Times, Mammoth Lakes was the snowiest place in North America in January 2023. 

    Top Mountain Town for Rugged Beauty: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

    Historically, Jackson Hole, Wyoming brought in its main revenue from logging and ranching. However, in recent years, it has become a coveted travel destination.

    Part of the charm of this popular western mountain town is its rugged beauty and new attractions such as ski slopes, resorts, and art venues.

    Elk sightings on sleigh ride

    This town is also close to Yellowstone National Park and Teton Mountain Range. You can search for elk as you sleigh through the National Elk Refuge with an experienced naturalist. Also, don’t miss the annual Pedigree Stage Stop Sled Dog Race held in late January!

    Jackson Hole has captured the hearts of famous stars such as Harrison Ford, Sandra Bullock, Matthew McConaughey, and others.

    Top Out-of-the-Way Mountain Town: Tubac, Arizona

    If you are looking for a quiet mountain town getaway, you can add Tubac, Arizona to your itinerary. 

    This town rests between the mountain ranges of Tumacacori and Santa Rita. Its population is only around 1,200, but it is brimming with art, culture, and good food.

    In fact, Tubac was named the number one small-town art scene in 2021 by U.S.A. Today.

    Spanish mission in Tubac, AZ

    You can enjoy walking through art museums and funky boutiques and sipping wine at a nearby winery. Or, practice your swing on the year-round golf course featured in the movie Tin Cup.

    Besides its art, this town’s claim to fame is the 18th-century San Ignacio de Tubac Spanish fort set in the Tubac Presidio State Historic Park.

    The restful scenery in this state park is on the eyes and full of this town’s unique history.

    Top Mountain Town for All-Season Fun: Vail, Colorado

    Vail is one of the top ski towns in the U.S.—and the world. Here you can pull out your skis and snowboards and dust off your winter sport skills. 

    Whether you’re a pro skier or still trying to conquer the bunny slopes, you can enjoy the amazing views this town offers.

    This mountain town sits in the middle of 5,289 acres for skiing and lush forests. Its Bavarian-style architecture allows you to imagine you are vacationing in Europe while never leaving North America.

    Male skier in the mountains

    When the snow melts away, there is still plenty of fun to be had. You can raft the Blue River, enjoy music festivals, or take a hot air balloon tour as you look down on the White River National Forrest. 

    Top Mountain Town for Culture: Taos, New Mexico

    Taos, New Mexico is rated by Triple A as one of the best winter vacation spots in the U.S. This town is deeply rooted in Native American culture and is home to Taos Pueblo, a World Heritage Site. 

    view of adobe architecture

    There are many breathtaking views in and around this mountain town.

    Some of the top attractions include the town’s adobe architecture, one of the highest bridges in the world, and the national landmark, San Francisco de Asis Church.

    This church is still active, but it is also a work of art that draws visitors from around the world. You might recognize the structure from Georgia O’Keeffe’s paintings and Ansel Adam’s photos. 

    Skiing in the Dolomites

    Nearby is the Taos Ski Valley resort which receives an average of 300 inches of snow per year. Snowshoeing in the Carson National Forest and bathing in the Stagecoach Hot Springs are also top winter activities for Taos residents and tourists.

    Taos, New Mexico offers a bit of art, culture, and fun for North American tourists and world travelers.

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