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The 24 Best Mountain Towns in the U.S., Ranked

From Lake Placid to Cordova and some select places in between, here’s our (highly subjective) list of the nation’s best mountain towns. Before telling us where we went wrong, please take a moment to acknowledge the courage and gall it takes to attempt such an impossible feat.

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What makes the perfect mountain town? Quick access to adventure, of course, but how about the less obvious attributes? Does it have solid breweries and après food? Can an abundance of bike parks outweigh a lack of taco joints? Maybe. We explored such criteria in this highly subjective list, weighing each town against its peers in an attempt to rank the best mountain outposts in the U.S., from the southern Appalachians to the Chugach. There’s a good chance we’re going to piss you off with our picks. We probably left off your favorite town. Or worse, we included a place you wish we’d never written about. Some of the towns on this list are so damn awesome that they’re  suffering from side effects  like crowded trailheads and ridiculous home prices. For that, we’re sorry. We’re only human and maybe we put too much stock in an empty trail, a tasty IPA, and a great breakfast burrito. Tell us where we went wrong in the comments.

24. Cordova, Alaska

No roads connect this fishing hub with other towns in Alaska, so you’ll have to catch a seaplane or boat to get here. But once you’ve arrived, the best of the state is just out your back door. The community (population 2,800) sits at the mouth of the Copper River on Prince William Sound, surrounded by glaciated peaks that are protected by  Chugach National Forest . The Copper is both a means of transportation and entertainment. Catch a boat upriver to see Childs Glacier, which drops ice chunks into the water with alarming regularity, or cast a line and try to hook some salmon. Kayakers can paddle between icebergs in Orca Inlet, and skiers based downtown can walk to Mount Eyak , where 800 vertical feet and an average 120 inches of snow are served by a historic single chairlift. A lifetime of hiking trails are scattered throughout this corner of Chugach Mountains, many leading to alpine lakes and other glaciers.

23. Roanoke, Virginia

Roanoke gets overshadowed because of its blue-collar bones, but its adventure chops are the real deal. The Blue Ridge Mountains rise directly from downtown, offering immediate access to rigorous road-bike climbs that top out at the Blue Ridge Parkway and 400 miles of flowy singletrack, while the Appalachian Trail skirts the edge of town if you’re interested in a 2,000-mile jaunt or a short, scenic stretch of it. It’s even home to one of the toughest tests of distance running in the country, the Blue Ridge Marathon, putting it to you with more than 7,000 feet of elevation gain. And the food? Unpretentious farm-to-table fare with a Southern accent, washed down with something from the burgeoning craft-beer scene. Deschutes Brewery liked Roanoke so much, it opened an outpost here.

22. Terlingua, Texas

The Texas Hill Country is adventure packed and all, but the peaks that define the far western corner of this state are the real deal. The Chisos Mountains hit 8,000 feet, rising from the dusty Chihuahuan Desert, and the entire stretch is contained within the one-million-acre Big Bend National Park . The tiny town of Terlingua, with a population of 50 or so, sits on the boundaryof the park and has a killer bar in the Starlight Theatre Restaurant , a couple of other dining options, and some beloved stone ruins. There’s mountain biking galore in nearby Big Bend Ranch State Park , road and gravel cycling throughout the national park, and some of the best overlanding you could imagine. And we haven’t even mentioned the Rio Grande, which flows just south of town, carving tall, dramatic cliffs that define the edge of America.

21. Spearfish, South Dakota

Perched on the northern side of Black Hills National Forest and hugging the Wyoming border, Spearfish is an hour and a half from Badlands National Park in one direction and an hour from Devils Tower , one of the country’s finest trad-climbing destinations, in the other. But you don’t need to get in your car to get radical; Spearfish Canyon, with its thousand-foot-high limestone walls, begins just outside downtown and runs south for 20 miles through the Black Hills, offering endless climbing, mountain-biking, and hiking options. During the winter, those trail systems become a hotbed of cross-country activity. As for the town itself, expect a college-educated-cowboy vibe, thanks to the presence of Black Hills State University.

20. Davis, West Virginia

Davis is not large. Its population hovers at 600, and its downtown is just a few blocks, but it has everything you need: a pizza place, a burrito joint, and a brewery. Then there’s the wild and rugged Monongahela National Forest  on the outskirts, stacked with some of the most challenging singletrack on the eastern seaboard. The nearby Dolly Sods Wilderness is a prime pick for backpackers looking to traverse rocky outcroppings, meandering creeks, and high-elevation bogs. The town itself is located just minutes from two downhill ski resorts, Canaan Valley and Timberline Mountain , and one cross-country-skiing hub, Whitegrass Ski Touring Center , all of which enjoy some 200 inches of lake-effect snow each year.

19. Durango, Colorado

Durango has everything more famous towns in Colorado have, except the crowds. A former mining town and railroad hub, it has since expanded to 25,000 residents, who relish the four seasons of adventure in their backyard. Rafting the Class III–V Animas River, which cuts through the small city center, can be a multiday excursion on the Upper Animas or a post-work session at the Durango Whitewater Park . Mountain biking is ingrained in the culture—a shocking number of Olympic bikers grew up here—while hikers hit the 17-mile Highline Loop Trail or a section of the Colorado Trail. Durango doesn’t register as a ski destination, but locals have Chapman Hill, a two-rope-tow affair that rises from downtown, and Purgatory , a 1,605-acre resort that boasts the largest cat-skiing operation in the lower 48. The town is also just 45 minutes from Mesa Verde National Park , easily one of the most interesting units in the park system. All this exploring will no doubt work up your appetite, and you’ll find Durango stacked with surprisingly eclectic food (get the Southwestern sushi roll at Rice Monkey ), while the brewery scene is exactly what you’d expect from a world-class mountain town and includes one of the O.G. craft breweries, Ska .

18. Taos, New Mexico

It’s easy to get caught up in Taos’s history—people living here for centuries, starting with the ancestors of the Pueblo, who settled in the area around 900 A.D. Since then it has seen a rotating cast of characters, from Spanish conquistadors to artists like D.H. Lawrence and Ansel Adams. The dining scene is also pretty spectacular for such a small town—where green chile is found on many a menu—but it’s what lies just outside town that has us swooning: the trails of Wheeler Peak Wilderness , Taos Ski Valley ’s winter powder and summer flow trails, and the 800-foot granite cliffs of the Rio Grande Gorge . No, Taos isn’t a secret, and you’re going to have to share the goods with a few other people (though not as many as some of the other towns on this list), but can you blame them for showing up? Summiting 13,161-foot Wheeler Peak in summer is a must, as is pedaling the high-altitude singletrack on the north side of the ski valley, followed by the mixed-sausage plate (bratwurst, Nürnberger, and Debrezinar in one serving!) and a 32-ounce stein of Spaten Lager at the aptly named Bavarian . Fishing for cutthroat in the Rio Hondo is up there, too.

17. Leavenworth, Washington

OK, Leavenworth has a bit of kitsch to it, thanks to a Bavarian-style downtown complete with copious German beer gardens. It also has the riches of the Cascade Mountains beckoning from nearby, starting with the Icicle and Wenatchee Rivers, where whitewater paddling and fly-fishing are favorite pursuits, and the powdered peaks of Stevens Pass Ski Area , which can see an astounding 425 inches of snow a year. In between you have rock climbing in Icicle Valley, mountain biking in Freund Canyon, and a community that’s committed to the outdoors, supporting a local ski hill with two rope tows, a robust ski team, and the only ski jump on the West Coast. And did we mention all of the beer gardens?

16. Stanley, Idaho

If you can’t make the jaunt to Alaska, Idaho will do. The state is as wild as it gets in the lower 48, and Stanley, in the center of the Sawtooth Valley with its 10,000-foot namesake peaks, is the ultimate tiny base camp. The Salmon River helps carve the town’s boundaries, offering immediate access to fly-fishing and Class IV rapids. Fishing and paddleboarding on alpine lakes, like the 1,500-acre Redfish Lake, are common practice within the Sawtooth National Recreation Area , as is wildlife watching for bighorn sheep and elk. Come winter, Galena and Banner Summits are quick getaway options for backcountry powder, while endless stashes are hidden amid the 40 peaks surrounding Stanley. Downtown is delightful and supports its small population of 100 (make like a local and grab a breakfast burrito from Stanley Baking Company ), but if you want some glitz or lift-served downhill, Sun Valley Mountain Resort is just an hour south.

15. Bentonville, Arkansas

The Ozarks aren’t known for towering peaks, but don’t mistake their muted summits for humble terrain; the landscape is rugged, especially if you’re on a mountain bike. And Bentonville (population 49,467) has taken advantage of that feature, building more than 300 miles of singletrack in the past decade. One result is a downtown renaissance: its historic main street has come back to life with restaurants and boutiques that pay homage to Southern charm, with a nod toward changing times. (Case in point: this speakeasy in the basement of a former church.) The town has also seamlessly married culture with adventure: more than 100 pieces of public art can be found along the trails. Make a pit stop at the world-class Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art , a destination in itself, housing pieces by numerous icons, including Warhol and Rockwell.

14. North Conway, New Hampshire

North Conway might be best known as a ski town—and that’s a legitimate distinction with Cranmore Mountain Resort ’s steeps and glades just a mile from downtown and six more alpine resorts within an hour’s drive. But winter is just part of the draw. The storybook village (population 2,179) is nestled in Mount Washington Valley, surrounded by the  White Mountains , and ideally located near some of the best trad climbing and hiking in New England. Climbers flock to Cathedral Ledge for long multi-pitch routes, and hikers have 800,000 acres of national forest to explore outside town.

13. Chattanooga, Tennessee

This outdoor outpost of 179,690 residents has been a rock-climbing mecca for decades, thanks to the towering sandstone bluffs and boulders that define the Cumberland Plateau, to the west. Hundreds of sport routes traverse the Tennessee Wall, while Sunset Rock on Lookout Mountain is a center for trad. But in the past ten years, mountain biking has taken prominence, with more than 100 miles of singletrack creating a prime network for cyclists, earning Chattanooga a silver-level Ride Center recognition from the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA). Hikers have 150 miles of trails to choose from, including the 200-mile-long Cumberland , which begins outside town and runs north along the plateau. The broad but mellow Tennessee River carves an arc around the city center and begs paddleboarders and rowers to spend time in its currents, while the Class IV rapids in the Ocoee, an hour east, beckon hardcore whitewater enthusiasts.

12. Whitefish, Montana

Whitefish has the distinction of being both a ski hub ( Whitefish Mountain Resort ’s 3,000 acres are minutes north of downtown) and a national-park gateway ( Glacier is 30 miles east). Either of those outdoor attractions would be reason enough to call Whitefish home for a weekend or a lifetime, but it’s the nuances between the obvious gems that make this area of the northern Rockies so damn compelling. The Flathead River and its tributaries are a hotbed of native trout, while the glacier-fed Whitefish Lake offers picture-perfect paddling. As for biking, the Whitefish Trail is 43 miles of flowy singletrack, with a trailhead two miles from downtown.

11. Copper Harbor, Michigan

As far as you can get from major centers of civilization in the Midwest, this former mining outpost (population 100) sits on the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula, flanked by the largest of the Great Lakes on one side and the rocky ridgeline of Brockway Mountain on the other. It’s five hours from the nearest interstate, and cell service is nonexistent unless you hike to the top of Brockway. You can even occasionally catch the aurora borealis from this latitude. Summer is about mountain biking, with some of the most impressive singletrack starting in town. Or hop a ferry to explore Isle Royale National Park  in the middle of Lake Superior . Meanwhile, an average winter sees more than 250 inches of lake-effect snow, turning the tip of the peninsula into a playground for fat bikers and cross-country skiers, and nearby Mount Bohemia runs the only cat-skiing operation east of the Rockies.

10. Lake Placid, New York

Is Lake Placid a tad too touristy? Maybe. But there might not be a more complete winter destination in the lower 48. There are only a couple of places in the U.S. where you could try out an Olympic-size ski jump or go bobsledding, and Lake Placid is one of them, thanks to the 1980 Olympic facilities that still welcome tourists and athletes alike. You can also spend time dogsledding, ice skating, or cross-country skiing on 12 miles of groomed trails just outside town, or just run laps on what is arguably the most badass toboggan chute in the country. Then there’s Whiteface Mountain for downhill turns. Lake Placid is surrounded by the High Peaks of the Adirondacks, home to hiking trails galore as well as Wallface, an 800-foot granite cliff with some of the best climbing in the state, located in the deep wilderness of Indian Pass. This town is serious about mountain biking, too: old ski hills have been turned into new systems of singletrack at Craig Woods Trails , where a defunct slope from the seventies has been transformed into some serious flow trails.

9. Sedona, Arizona

Don’t let the New Age crystal shops fool you—Sedona is a town that’s grounded in its surroundings. The hub of 10,000 sits at 4,350 feet in the center of almost two million acres of national forest, a landscape of high-elevation pine-filled peaks and stunning red-rock formations. There are more than 400 miles of trails to choose from, many of which start on the edge of town and feature an array of buttes, arches, and caves to explore. Scrambling up Bell Rock is a must, as is traversing Devil’s Bridge and spending time at the pools and caves of Devil’s Kitchen. But maybe mountain bikers have it best, thanks to the variety of smooth slickrock and technical descents mixed with purpose-built dirt paths. The double-black Hiline Trail could be the highlight, full of clifftop views (and clifftop exposure) and a descent that’s equal parts flowy and sketchy.

8. Bozeman, Montana

It’s tough to say if Bozeman is a fishing town or a skiing town, a boating town or a mountain-biking town. The truth is, it’s all of those—and a college town to boot (go, MSU Bobcats!). Located in a flat valley, Bozeman is bookended by Bridger Range to its north and the Spanish Peaks to the south. Anglers can head to high-alpine lakes or movie-set-worthy rivers; the Lower Gallatin offers world-class trout close enough for a happy-hour cast. For skiers, Big Sky Resort is nearby and famous, but Bridger Bowl  is the more convenient home hill, with 2,700 feet of vertical drop and a lively après parking-lot scene. But Bozeman’s true gem is Hyalite Canyon, a multisport, four-season destination just 15 miles from town, where trails lead from easy-access campsites to mountain meadows in the summer. In winter, Hyalite becomes one of the best ice-climbing  spots in the country. Need to tick off a bucket-list adventure? Yellowstone National Park , 70 miles south, can been seen on a day trip.

7. Stowe, Vermont

Stowe might be too perfect. First, you have the quaint village, loaded with New England charm and underpinned by a farm-to-table ethos. Then you have Stowe Mountain Resort , which consists of two peaks, including the tallest mountain in the state, and pulls down 300 inches of snow a year. It boasts over 485 acres of skiable—and, in the summer, bikeable—terrain. Add in access to some of the best beer on the East Coast, a local land trust that’s preserved more than 4,000 acres for the public, rugged adventures at nearby Smugglers Notch State Park , and more groomed nordic trails and singletrack than you could possibly explore, and you have the recipe for perfection. Just be prepared to sit in traffic if you want to ski Stowe Mountain on a Saturday.

6. Asheville, North Carolina

Cyclists, take note: Asheville sits in a bowl surrounded by 5,000-to-6,000-foot peaks and offers a sturdy mix of two-lane blacktop, gravel, and singletrack traversing those mountains in every direction. The 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway , arguably the best road-cycling destination in the country, cruises by the edge of town, and getting to  Pisgah National Forest ’s legendary singletrack only requires a quick warm-up or cooldown from your home base. Meanwhile, kayakers look to the Class V Green River, and hikers have the highest mountains on the East Coast to explore. Everybody comes together for a beer downtown, blessed with too many breweries to count. And when we say everybody, we mean everybody–because the secret is out, and outdoorspeople have come to appreciate its amenities; the downside of all this is that traffic jams are common on highways that feed Pisgah National Forest, and housing prices continue to escalate.

5. Bend, Oregon

Forget the stereotypes of copious rain overwhelming all parts of the Pacific Northwest. Bend sits on the dry side of the Cascade Range, so the powder is fluffy during the cold months and the trails are buff in the warm ones. Mount Bachelor, 20 miles away, affords more than 4,300 acres of lift-served terrain during the winter and a state-of-the-art bike park when the snow melts. Roadies love the 20-mile climb up to the resort, while mountain bikers have more than 300 miles of singletrack to tackle. Some trails traverse through town, and others take in the 10,000-foot peaks on the horizon, home to alpine lakes, waterfalls, and dormant volcanoes. Pilot Butte, an urban park popular for recreation, offers seven miles of trails and a summit with stunning views. Deciding how to spend your time downtown may be the biggest challenge: galleries, good food, better beer, and a whitewater park where you can tube, kayak, or surf the Deschutes River are just a few of the excellent options. Naturally, such attributes have led to the quintessential problem facing mountain towns—everyone wants to move here. With so much to keep you happy and healthy in Bend, it’s hard to blame them.

4. Truckee, California

The bustle of Lake Tahoe can be overwhelming, but Truckee, 12 miles north, has managed to retain itslow-key vibe. The western character of its historic downtown still shows through and through, and if you’re looking for a beach scene that’s quieter, head to Donner Lake instead. During the summer, the mountains in this section of the Sierra Nevada are lousy with climbing, notably the tall granite slabs seen at Donner Summit and closer to Donner Lake and Lake Tahoe. Truckee happily hosts cyclists with 22 miles of paved bike paths as well as a bike park and the world-class singletrack of Tahoe National Forest  just out its back door. Alternatively, make a beeline to the Tahoe Donner Trail System, with 60 miles of multi-use trails, or hit the famous Flume Trail at Lake Tahoe. Come winter, local families flock to the Tahoe Donner resort, with 3,170 skiable acres.

3. Telluride, Colorado

The conversation about Telluride starts with the ski resort of the same name, which drops 4,000 vertical feet across 2,000 acres just upslope of downtown (a gondola connects the town center with the resort’s mountain village). Seriously, you can ski right into town here—and not just some manufactured ski-resort village but an actual community. With with all the love Telluride receives (don’t bother searching for real estate; if you have to ask, you can’t afford it), it can feel a bit cramped considering Telluride itself is tucked into a box canyon within the towering San Juan Mountains. Fortunately, there’s plenty of room to spread out, as those mountains are home to the densest concentration of 13,000- and 14,000-foot peaks in the nation. Hiking and mountain biking take over come summer, with singletrack that begins where side streets end. But the unique culture it evinces is as vibrant as the adventure. Its architecture is more Victorian than mining camp, the food scene is legit, and the summer is punctuated by big events like the Telluride Bluegrass Festival and Telluride Blues and Brews .

2. Jackson, Wyoming

Yeah, you know about the antler arches, the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar , and Corbet’s Couloir at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort . There aren’t a lot of secrets in Jackson anymore. But that doesn’t make the town or its corner of the Tetons any less stunning. The resort gets all the love (and rightfully so), but don’t overlook Snow King , which serves as a pre- and post-work ski workout for locals, or Grand Targhee , 45 miles away, which has just as much to offer mountain bikers during the summer as it does skiers in the winter. You might not know that you can ride your bike to Grand Teton National Park . And there’s never a bad time to visit  Bridger-Teton National Forest , pass some enjoyable hours fly-fishing the Snake or Firehole Rivers, or hitting the gondola-served singletrack. And what would a mountain town be without proximity to wild animals? The  National Elk Refuge  is minutes away.

1. Park City, Utah

Park City is a ski town, sure, with Deer Valley and Park City Mountain looming on the horizon, but it’s so much more than just downhill turns and champagne powder here. The Wasatch offers the picture-perfect frame for this former silver-mining boomtown, delivering adventure beyond the lifts. There are 450 miles of trails surrounding Park City, earning it one of the few gold-level Ride Center designations from IMBA. A tandem of blue-ribbon rivers (the Provo and the Weber) keep anglers entertained, while every hiking trail seems to lead to a different high-alpine lake. Back in town, High West is producing some of the best whiskey in the country, a free trolley is an excellent means of alternative transportation, and the food scene is far more eclectic than you’d expect of a place with 8,000 full-time residents.

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13 Beautiful U.S. Mountain Ranges for a Scenic Adventure Trip

With hiking, water sports, scenic drives, and more, these U.S. mountain ranges have something for everyone.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

There is something undeniably peaceful about going out into the wilderness and exploring the mountain ranges in the U.S., whether you're visiting the fog-covered Great Smoky Mountains or the sharp, snowy peaks of the Alaska Range. We've rounded up 13 scenic U.S. mountain ranges that have great hiking and even better views for your next trip into the great outdoors. So, grab your hiking boots and a water bottle , and get ready to explore some of the most breathtaking places our country has to offer.

1. Teton Range

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Picturesque Grand Teton National Park protects the stunning Teton Range, part of the larger Rocky Mountains, which cover 3,000 miles across North America, from British Columbia to New Mexico . Grand Teton encompasses 485 square miles of stunning natural beauty, with over 200 miles of hiking trails, plenty of floating and boating opportunities, and a serene natural landscape for outdoor exploration. 

2. Great Smoky Mountains

A subrange of the Appalachian Mountains , the Great Smoky Mountains are known for the fog that usually hovers around the tops of the peaks, creating the namesake "smoky" effect. Located primarily in North Carolina and Tennessee, these mountains are protected by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park , the most-visited national park in the United States. Millions of visitors flock to this park every year to hike, camp, and enjoy the incredible mountain views.

3. Alaska Range

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

While it might be more remote than other mountain ranges on this list, the Alaska Range includes some of the country's most incredible peaks, and some of the most beautiful national parks protect these mountains. Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve , Denali National Park and Preserve , and Lake Clark National Park and Preserve all encompass parts of the Alaska Range. Denali, the highest mountain peak in North America, reaching an elevation of 20,310 feet, is also located within this stunning mountain range.

4. Sierra Nevada

Vince Fergus/Travel + Leisure

The Sierra Nevada mountain range stretches from the Central Valley of California to the Great Basin, with many mountains located within the Golden State. There are three national parks in the Sierra Nevada range — Yosemite National Park , Sequoia National Park , and Kings Canyon National Park — and each offers unique experiences, wildlife sightings, hiking, and stunning views.

5. Cascade Range

The Cascade Mountains are located in western North America, crossing parts of Canada, Washington, Oregon, and California. This range has beautiful snow-capped mountains and volcanoes, including Mount Rainier, the range's highest point, which reaches an elevation of 14,411 feet, and Mount Saint Helens, the active stratovolcano that last erupted in 2008.

6. Uinta Mountains

Found primarily in northeastern Utah , the Uinta Mountains have plenty of outdoor activities, including rafting, fishing, boating, camping, and hiking. This range is also home to Dinosaur National Monument , where guests can see dinosaur fossils and historic petroglyphs.

7. Olympic Mountains

Located on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington , the Olympic Mountains are primarily set within Olympic National Park . Known for its rocky coastline, a lush rainforest, and of course, its beautiful mountain peaks, this is a popular destination for avid hikers and people looking to explore the great outdoors. Mount Olympus is the range's highest peak, reaching 7,979 feet in elevation.

8. Blue Ridge Mountains

The Blue Ridge Mountains span most of the eastern United States, going from Pennsylvania to Georgia. That means there are plenty of places to get out and explore this beautiful range, with many destinations located just a short drive from East Coast cities. Notably, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers a scenic drive through a section of the mountains, and Shenandoah National Park provides hiking and other outdoor activities in Virginia's part of the Blue Ridge.

9. California Coast Ranges

As the name implies, this mountain range is located on the Californian coast, covering some of the most scenic parts of the state. The Santa Lucia Range is situated within, and it includes the incredible Big Sur region. Taking a drive along the Pacific Coast Highway is a great way to take in the sights, but there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, too.

10. Adirondack Mountains

Located in northeastern New York, the Adirondack Mountains are a perfect getaway for New Yorkers wanting to escape the city and relax in nature. This area is beautiful year-round — you can ski during the winter , enjoy colorful foliage in the fall, and go kayaking and hiking in the spring and summer. The area also has lovely scenic drives and several charming small towns.

11. Sawtooth Range

Known for their jagged peaks, Idaho 's Sawtooth Mountains are uniquely beautiful. The Sawtooth National Recreation Area offers hiking trails, rock climbing, camping, kayaking, mountain biking, and more, making it a perfect destination for those looking for outdoor adventure.

12. Bighorn Mountains

Crossing parts of Wyoming and Montana , the Bighorn Mountains are another great mountain destination for outdoor adventurers, with opportunities for biking, camping, hiking, fishing, and more at Bighorn National Forest . Cloud Peak Wilderness, located within the forest, is one of the most picturesque areas in the range, known for its beautiful alpine landscape.

13. White Mountains

Located in New Hampshire and part of Maine , the White Mountains are another beautiful mountain escape with outdoor activities everyone will love. In addition to hiking and camping, you can also take in the mountain views from tramways, alpine coasters, vintage railroads, and more.

The 25 Best Mountain Towns in the U.S.

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Right about now, we could all really use a magical trip to the mountains. Think: fresh air, rugged trails, the smell of marshmallows roasting over an open fire and cozy cabin rentals . What’s more, a high-altitude escape may actually be closer than you realize—like within driving distance. From old standbys such as Aspen and Stowe to a few spots you’ve probably never even heard of (what’s up, Hamburg?), these are the best mountain towns in America.

The 12 Most Charming Small Towns in South Carolina

1. Stowe, Vt

• Getting There: 45 minutes from Burlington International Airport
• Why We Recommend It: scenic views, ultra charming

Nested at the foot of Mount Mansfield, Stowe is a quintessential New England town and everything you’d want in a Vermont getaway. In terms of outdoor attractions, there are ski slopes, backcountry trails, waterfalls and The Current ’s annual outdoor sculpture show. While the cute little downtown area has wonderful shops, restaurants, breweries and inns.

Where to stay:

• Chic Townhouse (8 guests) : $375/night
• Vacation Condo (sleeps 6) : $204/night
• Townhome in Stowe (sleeps 6): $203/night

2. Jackson Hole, Wy

• Getting There: Fly into Jackson Hole airport
• Why We Recommend It: tons of outdoor activities, Old West flair, close to national parks

What’s not to love about Jackson Hole? This tourist mecca thrills visitors with its spellbinding natural beauty, rustic charm (how about those iconic shed antler arches in the town square?), high-end hotels, ski areas and access to not one but two national parks . After exploring you’ve definitely worked up an appetite, head to Glorietta for handmade pasta and locally sourced wood-fired meats.

• Hotel Jackson (2 guests) : $1,465/night
• Snow King Condo (5 guests) : $ 4 00/night
• Cozy Log Cabin (4 guests) : $125/night

4. Aspen, Co

• Getting There: 20 minutes from Aspen/Pitkin County Airport
• Why We Recommend It: renowned skiing, luxury shopping, lots of arts and culture

Few places (if any) manage to marry the rustic and refined quite like Aspen. Of course, the slopes are killer. But you can find epic skiing all over. People go to Aspen for more than snow-capped peaks. The upscale shopping, ritzy resorts, award-winning dining and après scene really set this legendary resort town apart from the rest.

• Aspen Condo (4 guests) : $400/night
• Mountainside Condo (4 guests) : $2 61 /night
• Downtown Aspen Condo (4 guests) : $ 355 /night

4. Gatlinburg, Tn

• Getting There: 1 hour and 16 minutes from McGhee-Tyson Airport
• Why We Recommend It: things to do all year round, tons of hiking trails

The fabled gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park , Gatlinburg in eastern Tennessee is a playground of outdoor adventure. No matter the season you visit, there’s always something active (and totally awesome) to do—from hiking and whitewater rafting to skiing and snowshoeing when the temperature drops.

• Elegant Cabin (3 guests) : $ 273 /night
• Log Cabin (4 guests) : $1 85 /night
• Black Bear Ridge (4 guests) : $ 230 /night

5. Banner Elk, Nc

• Getting There: 1 hour 52 minutes from Tri-Cities Regional Airport
• Why We Recommend It: great food, quaint town, lots of wineries

Even the name Banner Elk just sounds rustic doesn’t, it? This picturesque alpine village in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains certainly fits that description. Best of all, it puts an array of outdoor activities within arm’s reach. For avid skiers, Beech Mountain Resort lies to the north. Just outside of town, you’ll find trails and the famous mile-high swinging bridge.

• Log Cabin With Hot Tub (4 guests) : $ 175 /night
• Cozy Mountain Cabin (6 guests) : $1 28 /night
• Beech Mountain Condo (7 guests) : $1 25 /night

6. Hood River, Or

• Getting There: 1 hour from Portland International Airport
• Why We Recommend It: scenic hiking, lots of breweries, farm-to-table eats

Named after the nearby Hood River, this small town in Oregon isn't actually a high-altitude destination. The reason it earned a place on our list is its location within the Cascade Range. Mount Hood casts an imposing shadow. It also provides ample opportunities for hiking, biking and soaking in scenic vistas. Lest we forget the wineries and craft breweries just outside of town.

• Mid-Century House (4 guests) : $ 205 /night
• Freshly Remodeled House (4 guests) : $ 219 /night
• Mt Adams View House (6 guests) : $ 204 /night

7. North Conway, Nh

• Getting There: 1 hour 32 minutes from Portland Airport
• Why We Recommend It: great ski town, family friendly, outlet shopping

“Live free or die" is the official motto of New Hampshire. Freedom to do whatever you want—as long as that falls within the category of climbing rock faces, hiking rolling hills, skiing Bretton Woods , swimming in crystal-clear lakes, rafting on the Saco River , playing golf, shopping along Main Street and perusing art galleries—well, that’s exactly what awaits in North Conway.

• Large Chalet with Hot Tub (10 guests) : $273/night
• Cozy Condo (6 guests) : $95/night
• Barn House (14 guests) : $325/night

8. Leavenworth, Wa

• Getting There: 40 minutes from Pangborn Memorial Airport
• Why We Recommend It: European vibes, tons of outdoor activities

You might be surprised to learn there are actually a handful of Bavarian-style towns across the country—though none more authentic than Leavenworth in the Cascade Mountains of Washington. Between the alpine-style building, German restaurants, beer halls, ski slopes and the Nutcracker Museum , you might forget you’re still in America (especially after a few pints). Leavenworth is basically like a trip to Germany with no passport required.

• Aventyr Hus (4 guests) : $1 66 /night
• Cozy Riverfront Cabin (4 guests) : $ 202 /night
• Willkommen Zuhause (6 guests) : $ 192 /night

9. Bar Harbor, Me

• Getting There: 22 minutes from Hancock-County Bar Harbor Airport
• Why We Recommend It: family friendly, tourist favorite

Bar Harbor is the perfect home base for exploring Acadia National Park . (We’d highly recommend catching the sunrise from the overlook at Cadillac Mountain .) More than just a place to rest in between treks, this utterly enchanting seaside village treats visitors to fresh-caught local lobster, strolls along the craggy coastline, whale watching and, of course, oodles of Down East charisma.

• Saltair Inn Waterfront B&B (2 guests) : $ 552 /night
• Summer Salt Cottage (6 guests): $2 90 /night
• Spindrift Cottage (12 guests) : $ 482 /night

10. Lake Placid, Ny

• Getting There: 16 minutes from Saranac Lake Adirondack Airport
• Why We Recommend It: great eateries, fall foliage, lots of cold weather sports

With its unique mix of peaceful Adirondack ambiance, gorgeous scenery and adrenaline-rush activities, Lake Placid is certainly a contender for the best mountain town in America. Soak in the views from the eight-passenger Cloudsplitter Gondola. Unwind with a relaxing walk around Mirror Lake . While thrillseekers can go bobsledding at the Olympic Complex (Lake Placid hosted the Winter Games in 1980).

• Town House Lodge (2 guests) : $ 274 /night
• Mirror Lake Inn & Resort (2 guests): $ 529 /night
• Lake Placid Getaway (4 guests) : $ 234 /night

11. Telluride, Co

• Getting There: 1 hour and 29 minutes from Montrose Regional Airport
• Why We Recommend It: lots of skiing, vibrant night life

It’s no secret that Colorado has so many awesome alpine towns. But Telluride is just a cut above the rest. Protected by the snow-capped San Juan Mountains, this mining hub turned four-season vacation destination entices travelers with its abundant recreation—skiing, snowmobiling, hiking, biking and fly fishing—plus Victorian-era architecture, Old West character (ahem, saloons) and events like Telluride Jazz Fest.

• Downtown Telluride Studio (2 guests) : $2 44 /night
• One-Bedroom Condo (4 guests) : $2 79 /night
• Modern Townhouse (4 guests) : $299/night

12. Sun Valley, Id

• Getting There: 26 minutes from Friedman Memorial Airport
• Why We Recommend It: uncrowded ski slopes, lots of history, upscale vibe

Sun Valley is hailed as the birthplace of resort skiing in North America. (Chair lifts were actually installed back in the 1930s.) Today, it remains one of the most sought-after spots to hit the slopes in the country. Besides conquering advanced runs (or bunny hills if that’s more your speed), be sure to visit the pedestrian-friendly village and the Sun Valley Museum of Art .

• Knob Hill Inn (2 guests) : $ 344 /night
• Elkhorn Village Condo (6 guests) : $1 50 /night
• Snow Creek Condo (5 guests) : $ 210 /night

13. Big Sky, Mt

• Getting There: 57 minutes Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport
• Why We Recommend It: lots of adventure sports, tons of bars

With a name like Big Sky, you’d guess this storied spot in the Rocky Mountains of southern Montana is going to be a place of wild, untamed wilderness. That’s totally accurate. Yellowstone National Park lies to the south of town, which means you’re only a short drive from hot springs, geysers, canyons and forests. While Big Sky Resort boasts 6,000 skiable acres.

• Rainbow Ranch Lodge (2 guests) : $ 475 /night
• Stunning Golf Course Condo (4 guests) : $ 150 /night
• Central Big Sky Condo (6 guests) : $1 97 /night

14. Eureka Springs, Ar

• Getting There: 1 hour and 11 minutes from Branson Airport
• Why We Recommend It: quaint town, great hiking trails, access to hot springs

Eureka, we found the best alpine town in Arkansas. (Corny, but it’s true!) Set in the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs lures stressed-out travelers with its natural springs. You can destress with a steamy soak morning, noon or night. In between trips to the bathhouse, be sure to check out the boutiques, art galleries, museums, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge and Thorncrown Chapel .

• Eureka Springs Vacation Cottage (6 guests) : $ 14 2/night
• Sundown Cottage (4 guests) : $1 53 /night
• Mountainview Cottage (4 guests) : $132/night

15. Mammoth Lakes, Ca

• Getting There: Fly into Mammoth Yosemite Airport
• Why We Recommend It: great skiing terrains, lots of lakes

No roundup of mountain towns would be complete without Mammoth Lakes. Situated within the Sierra Nevada Mountain range, this dazzling destination offers visitors more fun-filled activities than you could possibly pack into a single trip. Enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, kayaking, boating and rock climbing in the summer. Winter brings the chance to try snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.

• Beautiful Sun-Filled Condo (6 guests) : $ 143 /night
• The Village Lodge (2 guests) : $ 349 /night
• Cozy Updated Condo (5 guests) : $1 89 /nights

16. Homer, Al

• Getting There: Fly into Homer Airport
• Why We Recommend It: friendly, scenic views, bear viewing

Located at the southern end of the 138-mile-long Sterling Highway, near the Kenai Mountains, Homer has us hook, line and sinker. Yes, that’s a fishing pun. But that’s because “the Cosmic Hamlet by the Sea" is the ultimate spot to catch halibut. It’s also great for boating, bird watching, sipping local brews and seeing volcanic peaks across Cook Inlet .

• Cozy Cabin in the Sky (4 guests) : $135/night
• Heather View Vacation Rental (6 guests) : $ 175 /night
• Historic Downtown House (6 guests) : $2 65 /night

17. Blue Ridge, Ga

• Getting There: 1 hour and 52 minutes from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
• Why We Recommend It: cool weather, vibrant arts scene

One of the most charming small towns in Georgia , Blue Ridge, just 90 miles north of Atlanta, feels like a remote and far-flung refuge of alpine pursuits. Hike the trails that bisect the 106,000-acre Chattahoochee National Forest , go white water rafting on the Ocoee River, cast a line in the trout-filled streams and ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway .

• Skyline Lodge (6 guests) : $2 46 /night
• The Little Red Barn (3 guests) : $189/night
• Storybook Cabin (4 guests) : $1 66 /night

18. Lewisburg, Wv

• Getting There: 10 minutes from Greenbrier Valley Airport
• Why We Recommend It: historical landmarks, vibrant arts community, great restaurants

If loving (almost bordering on obsession) Lewisburg is wrong, we don’t want to be right. With a thriving arts scene, antique stores, quaint cafes, tours of Lost World Caverns , shows at the Greenbrier Valley Theatre and a slew of interesting historic sites, can you really blame us for getting so pumped about this darling West Virginia town?

• Little Red House (2 guests) : $75/night
• Secluded Farmhouse (2 guests) : $ 203 /night
• Modern Craftsman Home (8 guests) : $ 200 /night

19. Taos, Nm

• Getting There: 1 hour and 26 minutes from Los Alamos County Airport
• Why We Recommend It: lots of cultural heritage, tons of outdoor adventure

In need of some soul searching? Add a rejuvenating trip to the New Age mecca of Taos to your shortlist. This New Mexico gem stirs the senses with a mashup of the mystical, natural and wellness-driven activities. With a population of 5,960 residents, there are more heart-opening and muscle-burning activities than people. Is that an over exaggeration? You be the judge.

• El Pueblo Lodge (2 guests) : $ 180 /night
• The Dobson House (4 guests) : $1 92 /night
• Cozy House (6 guests) : $ 189 /night

20. Park City, Ut

• Getting There: 43 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport
• Why We Recommend It: small-community feel, cultural hub

Surrounded by the Wasatch Range, Park City is a winter tourism darling that leads the charge in skiing and snowboarding, well, depending on who you ask (if it’s us or the thousands of snow bunnies that visit each year, they’d totally agree). Its other major claim to fame? The Sundance Film Festival. Devotees also rave about the many restaurants, bars and shops.

• Luxury Penthouse Suite (4 guests) : $ 9 9/night
• Spacious Three Kings (4 guests) : $1 55 /night
• Old Town Condo (10 guests) : $2 75 /night

21. Truckee, Ca

• Getting There: 1 hour 46 minutes from Reno-Tahoe International Airport
• Why We Recommend It: renowned logging town, tons of water sports

California has so many great mountain towns, but Truckee ranks at the top of our list of all-time favorites. This salt-of-the-earth North Lake Tahoe destination doesn’t fall victim to the touristy trapping of some of its neighbors. Instead, it welcomes visitors with open arms and loads of backcountry appeal. When the decision is between hiking, paddle boarding and walking around Old Town, there’s no wrong choice.

• The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe (2 guests) : $ 999 /night
• Mountain Lodge Style Home (10 guests) : $ 567 /night
• Contemporary Townhome (8 guests) : $ 227 /night

22. Jim Thorpe, Pa

• Getting There: 46 minutes from Lehigh Valley International Airport
• Why We Recommend It: small town vibes, scenic parks

Tucked away in the Poconos Mountains of eastern Pennsylvania, Jim Thorpe is the perfect escape from the pressures and stress of everyday life. Equal parts history and natural beauty, it serves up attractions like the Asa Packer Mansion , Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway , Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary , Jim Thorpe Memorial and Stonekeep Meadery with a side of small-town hospitality.

• Jim Thorpe Townhome (5 guests) : $1 86 /night
• The Dolon House (2 guests) : $2 45 /night
• Cabin in the Trees (3 guests) : $ 160 /night

23. Bottineau, Nd

• Getting There: 1 hour and 18 minutes from Minot International Airport
• Why We Recommend It: small town vibes, lots of outdoor activities

Perched at the foot of the Turtle Mountains, Bottineau invites visitors to channel their inner outdoorsman (what exactly that means is really open to interpretation). Plan a canoe excursion through the lakes and wetlands. Fishing for walleye and cooking ‘em up over an open fire feels very off-the-grid. When snow covers the ground, it’s all about embracing the untouched terrain and making your tracks.

• Cobblestone Inn and Suites - Bottineau (2 guests) : $ 100 /night
• Oak Creek Granary (5 guests) : $ 102 /night
• Rural Getaway at Homestead Lodge (15 guests) : $ 375 /night

24. Custer, Sd

• Getting There: 1 hour and 2 minutes from Rapid City Regional Airport
• Why We Recommend It: historic town, holds one of the largest bison herds in the world

The slogan, “minutes, not miles, from adventure,” pretty much sums up a trip to the former mining town of Custer. The crown jewel of South Dakota’s Black Hills puts visitors within spitting distance of Custer State Park , Crazy Horse Memorial , Mount Rushmore , Black Elk Peak and Jewel Cave National Monument , the third-longest cavern in the world.

• Lost Bison Cabin (4 guests) : $175/night
• Granite Reef Cabin (6 guests) : $250/night
• Remodeled Log Cabin (8 guests) : $ 304 /night

25. Hamburg, Nj

• Getting There: 1 hour and 16 minutes from Newark Liberty International Airport
• Why We Recommend It: lots of antique shops, family friendly

The Garden State is more closely associated with beaches than mountains. And while that’s certainly an accurate characterization, it leaves out the likes of Hamburg. What can you expect from this under-the-radar town near the New Jersey stretch of the Appalachian Trail in addition to great hiking? Golf and wine tasting, plus goat yoga at Crystal Springs Resort .

• Gorgeous Getaway (6 guests) : $ 108 /night
• Mountaintop Getaway (5 guests) : $1 74 /night
• Skylift Lodge (8 guests) : $ 241 /night

The 25 Best College Towns in America

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The Top 20 Mountain Travel Destinations in the World

LAST UPDATED – 2/14/24 – The 20 Top Mountain Travel Destinations in the World

If you are like me, the thought of spending time in the mountains gets your adrenaline flowing and you just can’t stop thinking about the breathtaking vistas, exhilarating hikes, and unforgettable adventures exploring amazing slopes, valleys, and peaks.  That’s why mountain travel destinations are my favorite landscapes in the world. 

Not only are they amongst the prettiest landscapes you will find on this planet, but they are also some of the most exciting landscapes to explore.  In addition to having some of the most epic hiking trails and climbing routes in the world, mountain destinations also have some of the most amazing wildlife to view.

Mountain Destinations Are My Passion

As a travel enthusiast and mountain lover, I have spent quite a bit of time researching and visiting some of this world’s most amazing mountain travel destinations.  Some truly spectacular mountain destinations all over the world are just waiting for you to get out and explore them. 

Whether you are looking to conquer the slopes of Denali in Alaska’s Denali National Park, trek to the top of Africa’s highest peak at Mount Kilimanjaro, or explore some of the highest mountains in the world in the Himalayas, there is a seemingly endless supply of mountain adventures out there waiting to be had.

In this article, I am going to lay out what I think are the Top 20 Mountain Travel Destinations in the World.  As you can see on the map below, these destinations are spread out far and wide over the globe.  If you are looking for your next big adventure in the mountains, I would suggest starting with this list.

View Larger Map

20. Table Mountain

South africa.

Widely considered to be one of the top tourist attractions near Cape Town, South Africa, Table Mountain is also one of the most unique-looking mountains that you will find at any destination on this list of mountain travel destinations.  Its flat top is very distinct, which is why it was given the name “Table Mountain”.  While the highest point of the mountain is only a meager 3,564 feet (1,086 meters), it can be a fun and challenging climb.

If you are interested in climbing to the top, there are various routes that you can choose from and each takes roughly 3 hours of hiking to get to the top.  If you aren’t up for the challenge of getting to the top on your own, the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway can bring you to the top for just a small fee.  One of the most unique animals that you will see near the top of Table Mountain is the Dassie.  It’s a very unique creature whose closest relative is the elephant, though it looks a lot more like a large rat.

19. The Pyrenees

France\spain.

Stretching roughly 305 miles (491 kilometers) on the border between France and Spain, the Pyrenees mountain range is characterized by an absence of the great lakes that you often see in the lateral valleys of the Alps in North and Central Europe.  Despite not having the large, alpine lakes and the large ski resorts, the Pyrenees are incredibly beautiful and very culturally diverse.  In the Western Pyrenees, you will find the Basque culture and its amazing cuisine to explore in the evenings after a long day of exploration and hiking in the mountains.

Not to be outdone, in the Eastern Pyrenees, the Catalan culture and its amazing seafood and cultural traditions are unique.  While the highest peak in the Pyrenees, Aneto Peak in Spain isn’t as high as the tallest peaks you will find in the Alps, its 11,169 feet high (3,404 meters) peak is still a challenge to reach.  If you are an experienced backpacker, it is possible to hike the length of the Pyrenees along the GR10 from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean.  Along the way, you will enjoy seeing beautiful 10,000-plus feet (3,000-plus meters) high peaks, dense forests, and amazing wildlife.

18. Vinicunca

The first of the mountain travel destinations in South America on my list may also be one of the most unique and beautiful destinations on my list as well.  While the area around Cusco is most famous for being the gateway to spectacular Incan ruins at Machu Picchu, the city is also the gateway to other destinations further up into the Andes Mountains.  One of the more popular destinations at higher altitudes in the Andes is Vinicunca, which is otherwise known as the Rainbow Mountain.

Vinicunca, in the local Quechua language of the Peruvian Andes, means “colorful necklace”.  However, it is also referred to locally as “Montaña de Siete Colores”, which means “mountain of seven colors”.  The pink dirt is created by red clay, the whitish dirt from quartz, the yellowish dirt is actually sandstone and limestone-rich sulfurous minerals, and the turquoise color comes from phyllite compounds and clays rich in iron-magnesium.

Together, these differing soils create one of the most unique and beautiful mountaintops you will find anywhere in the world.  The best time to view the mountain is between April and October, which is the dry season in Peru and the weather is most predictable.  If you decide to visit, make sure you are prepared for the altitude as the mountaintop sits at 17,060 feet (or 5,199 meters).

17.  Grand Teton National Park

United states.

There are some stunningly beautiful spots in the American Rocky Mountains to visit, but my favorite of these spots in the continental United States is undoubtedly Grand Teton National Park.  Established in 1929 and then again in 1950, the 96,000-acre Grand Teton National Park encompasses almost the entire Teton Mountain Range and six large glacial lakes.  Eight peaks within the park rise to over 12,000 feet (3,656 meters), with the highest peak being the Grand Teton (13,770 feet or 4,197 meters).

In addition to having some of the best hiking trails in the US National Park System, the Grand Teton National Park is also a great place to spot wildlife.  Along with its neighboring sister park, Yellowstone, the Grand Teton National Park is a great place to spot the likes of moose, American bison, pronghorn antelope, Roosevelt elk, grizzly bear, black bear, grey wolves, and even bighorn sheep.  For more information on how to visit the Grand Teton National Park, please refer to my Yellowstone and Grand Teton Visitor Guide linked below.

16. Tiger’s Nest

According to legend, Guru Rinpoche arrived in Bhutan on the back of a flying tigress.  While he visited several caves and cliffsides to meditate, he spent the majority of his time on the mountainside above the Paro Valley.  A monastery was eventually built on this spot and is now known as Paro Taktsang or Tiger’s Nest.  The monastery sits roughly 3,000 feet (915 meters) above the valley floor and 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) above sea level.   Without any doubt, it is one of the premier mountain travel destinations in the world.

If you want to hike up to the monastery you can, but the hike is very steep.  There are several different paths that you can take when you hike and the most popular of which takes you through a pine forest and past a collection of prayer flags.    No matter which path you choose, it is guaranteed to be an adventure you will remember.

If you visit in April, the Tsechu festival is held in the Paro Valley below.  The festival honors and remembers Guru Rinpoche and is marked by festive dancing all throughout the valley.  Visiting during the festival is a great way to see ancient Buddhist traditions performed in one of this world’s most beautiful and iconic settings.

15. Grindelwald

Switzerland.

The city of Grindelwald, or the “glacier village” as it is known locally, is one of the oldest resort towns in the Jungfrau region of Switzerland and one of the best places to visit to see the Swiss Alps in all of their glory.  The area is home to many 13,000+ feet (or 4,000+ meters) peaks, including the Eiger and Jungfrau mountains.  Being in the middle of so many large peaks means that Grindelwald is one of the best places in the Swiss Alps to do some alpine skiing and hiking.

Grindelwald is a Mountaineering Hot Spot

It is also one of the most popular places in all of Europe for mountaineering, which is why alpine climbers flock to Grindelwald each year to test their mettle on the area’s mountains.  Even if you aren’t an alpine climber or skier, the area’s beautiful mountain scenery, traditional cog railways, and fantastic food make Grindelwald one of the top mountain travel destinations and a great tourist destination for mountain lovers of all kinds.  Not to mention, because it is in such close proximity to the cities of Interlaken and Lauterbrunnen, you can spend weeks touring and eating your way through these beautiful valleys.

14. The Dolomites

Although they make up just a small portion of the Alps mountain range in Europe, the Dolomites of Northern Italy are some of the most beautiful and spectacular mountains you will find there.  They aren’t the tallest mountains you will find on the continent, as the tallest peak in the Dolomites is only about 11,000 feet (or 3,350 meters) tall, but their craggy look and rich landscape make them one of the best mountain travel destinations in Europe to explore.

Whether you are looking to hike, climb, ski, or participate in one of the area’s many adventure activities (such as base jumping, paragliding, hang gliding, and heli-skiing), there is something to entertain every type of outdoor enthusiast.  Even if you aren’t interested in any wild adventures, there are plenty of cross-country ski and hiking trails to keep even the most laid-back of travelers busy.

If you are looking for recommendations on where to go and what to do, I would strongly recommend looking into the Via Ferrata Routes.  These old WWI routes that used to have wooden steps and ropes to guide you along the mountain routes have been updated to include steel rungs and ladders.

If you have hiked in Acadia National Park in the United States, they are a lot like what you see on the Precipice and Beehive Trails in that park.  If you aren’t interested in a challenging hike\climb but still want to see some amazing scenery, I would recommend checking out the Tre Cime di Lavaredo.  Here you will find an easy 2-hour loop hike that offers some of the most spectacular views of the Dolomites.

13. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

New zealand.

When it comes to acclaimed mountain climbers, few climbers are as renowned or as revered as Sir Edmund Hillary.  Most people are aware of Hillary’s exploits on Mount Everest, but what many people are unaware of is that Hillary sharpened his climbing skills on Mount Cook before ever attempting to climb Everest.  As the tallest mountain in New Zealand and the centerpiece of the breathtaking Southern Alps that dominate much of the landscape on New Zealand’s Southern Island, Mount Cook is a breathtaking sight to behold.

The area also has a rich and important native history.  According to Ngāi Tahu legend, Aoraki and his three brothers, sons of the Sky Father Rakinui, were on a sea voyage when their canoe overturned.  When they climbed to the top of their canoe to escape the water, the freezing south wind turned them into stone.  Their canoe became the South Island while the three brothers became the peaks of the Southern Alps.

The Park Has World Renowned Hiking Tracks

For travelers visiting Aoraki\Mount Cook National Park, climbing isn’t the only activity that you can enjoy.  There are several amazing hiking tracks within the park and a lookout where you can see the gigantic Tasman Glacier, which is the largest glacier in New Zealand.  If you would like to get a better view of the landscape, you can always get a bird’s eye view from a helicopter or airplane tour.

Speaking of airplanes, New Zealand isn’t just one of the top mountain travel destinations in the world.  It is also considered by many travelers to be the adventure capital of the world, and one of the most popular adventures is skydiving.  To learn more about Aoraki\Mount Cook National Park and how to visit, please reference my Aoraki Mount Cook National Park Visitor Guide linked below.

Not too long ago, Manali used to be the backpacking capital of India.  There was an incredibly popular “hippie trail” that ran from Manali to Kullu and was a magnet for travelers looking to explore the beautiful Himalayan region on a budget. 

Fast forward to today, and the Manali region has blossomed into one of the most popular and developed mountain travel destinations in the Indian Himalayas.  No longer is this spot the hidden gem that it used to be.  That may be a disappointment to the most ardent backpackers out there, but it also means that the beauty of this region is accessible to more travelers.

Located high in the Indian Himalayas, Manali offers spellbinding views of the gorgeous mountain range.  If you get up early and look over the fog-covered slopes and the tiny cottages that are dotted over the landscape, you will swear you are dreaming.  Really, it is that beautiful.  For the hiking enthusiasts out there, hiking the Rohtang Pass is a hiking adventure that is popular with die-hard hiking enthusiasts.

Among the other adventure activities, the area is known for include skiing and river rafting.  For those looking for a more laid-back adventure, getting some rest and relaxation in one of the region’s Himalayan spas is an experience you will never forget.  No matter what brings you to Manali, exploring a beautiful region of this world’s tallest mountains would be an amazing adventure.

11. Kirkjufell

When it comes to breathtaking mountain travel destinations, few other countries in Europe can compete with the jaw-dropping views that you see on the island nation of Iceland.  From the giant glaciers like Vatnajökull and Skaftafell to the beautiful waterfalls like Godafoss and Seljalandsfoss, Iceland is chock-full of mind-blowingly gorgeous landscapes. 

In fact, the landscapes you see in Iceland are so unique that you will be hard-pressed to find others like them elsewhere in the world.  One of these unique and beautiful landscapes I am referring to is the Kirkjufell mountain, which sits on the Snæfellsnesnes peninsula in the Western part of Iceland.

Rising 1,519 feet (or 463 meters) above sea level on the outskirts of the small fishing town of Grundarfjörður, Kirkjufell may be the most photographed mountain in all of Europe.  It is certainly the most photographed mountain in Iceland.  If you would like to get a little more up-close-and-personal with the mountain, you can hike to the top.  However, you should not attempt the hike unless weather conditions are optimal because it is a difficult hike and can be hazardous.

If you aren’t an experienced hiker, you can arrange to do the hike as part of a guided expedition with a guide who is very familiar with the area.  For those who aren’t into hiking, you can opt for taking a guided horseback ride instead.  No matter how you choose to explore the area, it will certainly be an adventure you won’t soon forget.

10.  Denali National Park

If you’re looking for a pure wilderness experience, it is really tough to compete with the experience you will have when you visit Denali National Park in the state of Alaska in the United States.  World-renowned for its phenomenal wildlife, breathtaking mountain peaks, and beautiful glacially-fed rivers, Denali National Park has earned every bit of its reputation as an outdoor enthusiast’s dreamland.

Because of its isolated location in the middle of the vast Alaska wilderness, Denali National Park isn’t one of the easiest of America’s national parks to get to.  However, this is part of the park’s appeal. Combined with its sheer beauty, the remoteness and isolation of the park give it the last frontier kind of feel.  This alone makes it one of the premier mountain travel destinations in the world.

It also doesn’t hurt that the park is home to Mount Denali (or formerly known as Mount McKinley), which at 20,308 feet (or 6,189 meters) is the tallest mountain in North America.  It may not be as tall as some of the tallest mountains in the Himalayas, but when it comes to alpine climbs, it can be every bit as difficult.

While climbing the mountain should be reserved for only the most experienced, trained, and guided climbers, that doesn’t mean there aren’t hiking adventures for less experienced hikers and climbers to be enjoyed in the park.  In fact, there are plenty of great hiking trails and lookout points with breathtaking views for all travelers to enjoy in the park.  All you need to do is get there to enjoy them!

9. Mount Fuji

Of all the mountains found at all of the destinations on my list of the Top 20 Mountain Travel Destinations, few are as perfectly shaped or as beautiful as Mount Fuji in Japan.  At 12,388 feet (or 3,776 meters) tall, not only is it Japan’s highest mountain, but it is also the country’s most climbed one as well.  What most people don’t realize is that Mount Fuji isn’t a single mountain, but actually, three volcanoes stacked on top of each other.

The bottom mountain, and the oldest, is the Komitake volcano, then the Kufuji volcano, and finally the youngest of the volcanoes, Mount Fuji.  Located in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, which is less than 65 miles from Tokyo, Mount Fuji is one of the more accessible mountains found at any of the locations on my list.  In fact, many visitors choose to visit Mount Fuji on a day trip from the capital.

Mount Fuji is an Incredibly Shy Mountain

However, just because it is easy to get to, that doesn’t mean it is an easy mountain to see.  In fact, Mount Fuji is notoriously shy and is usually only visible through the cloud cover roughly 80 days a year.  So if you are planning a visit to see or photograph the mountain, I would suggest building some flexibility into your schedule and monitoring the weather forecast when you are in-country.

For those with ambitions to climb Mount Fuji, several trails take you to the top.  Which trail you choose will ultimately depend on your fitness level, hiking experience, and the time you would like to take to complete the hike. 

For instance, the Yoshida Trail climbs an estimated 7,545 feet (or 2,300 meters) on its way to the top, while the Gotemba Trail only ascends roughly 4,757 feet (or 1,450 meters) on its way to the top.  If you are up for the challenge, climbing the mountain is one of the ultimate travel adventures.  And with sunrises and sunsets as legendary as are typical at Mount Fuji, the pictures you get from the top will likely be epic as well.

8. Jotunheimen Mountains

According to ancient Norse mythology, Jotunheimen was the place where the jotner, or the trolls, once lived.  When you visit this jaw-droppingly beautiful landscape, you won’t have much trouble understanding why.  In addition to being the home of Northern Europe’s highest mountains, this section of Eastern Norway is also packed with gigantic glaciers, beautiful glacial rivers and lakes, and a seemingly never-ending supply of waterfalls.

There are more than 50 marked trails that crisscross their way throughout the 1,351 square miles (or 3,500 square kilometers) of this breathtaking park.  Depending on your fitness and comfort level, you can choose between short-day hikes or multi-day adventures to explore the area.

Two of the most popular hikes in the park are the hike to the summit of the Galdhøpiggen mountain and the Besseggen trail.  If you are up for the challenge, the Galdhøpiggen summit hike takes you to the top of the 8,100-feet (or 2,469-meter) Galdhøpiggen mountain, which is a strenuous hike for even experienced hikers.  If that doesn’t sound like your pace, the Besseggen trail is equally as beautiful, but not quite as stressful.

This six-hour hike is difficult, but as Norway’s most hiked route, it is also achievable by less experienced hikers.  If you invest the time to complete the hike, it will take you across the narrow Besseggen Ridge where you will be spellbound by the breathtaking views of the Gjende and Bessvatn lakes on your sides.  This hike alone is worth traveling to Jotunheimen, the rest is just gravy.

7. Mount Kilimanjaro

If you have ever listened to the band Toto’s hit 1982 hit song “Africa”, you probably recognize the lyrics, “As sure as Kilimanjaro rises like Olympus above the Serengeti”.  While it isn’t true that Mount Kilimanjaro can be seen from the plains of the Serengeti, it can be seen from nearby Amboseli National Park in Kenya.

This is notable because when most people think of Africa, they typically think about going on safari and seeing wild animals like lions, elephants, and rhinoceros.  What they don’t typically think about are mountain travel destinations with large, snow-capped peaks.  It may surprise you then to learn that one of the world’s most enchanting mountains, with its beautiful snow-capped peak, sits in the heart of one of Africa’s most infamous wildlife zones.

Kilimanjaro is the Tallest Free-Standing Mountain in the World

At 19,341 feet (or 5,895 meters) high, Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa and arguably the most mysterious mountain found at any of the destinations on my list.  While it isn’t the tallest peak in the world, it isn’t a part of a mountain range so it is considered to be the tallest free-standing mountain in the world.  While all of this is interesting, what attracts most travelers to Kilimanjaro each year is the fact that it is arguably the easiest of the highest summits on each continent to climb.

This makes it a challenging, but achievable goal for adventure travelers of all skill levels to attempt.  While it’s achievable for most travelers, you will have to put in some considerable effort to reach the top.  If you are interested in climbing the mountain, there are six main routes to the top and the average hike will take you 5 to 9 days to ascend and get back down.

If climbing the mountain doesn’t sound like something you are up for or have time for, there are also bike tours that take you around Mount Kilimanjaro that you can explore as well.  Oh, and don’t forget to make some life-long memories on a safari adventure or two while you are there.  In case you are interested, I have linked to my Serengeti National Park Safari Guide below for you to review.

6.  El Chalten

Argentinian patagonia.

Snuggled at the base of the towering Cerro Torre and Mount Fitz Roy, the small town of El Chaltén is widely considered to be one of South America’s top mountain travel destinations.  In Fact, among hiking enthusiasts, it is also considered to be the hiking capital of the Argentinian Andes.  The beautiful, jagged peaks and many world-class hiking trails attract thousands of adventurers a year.

Because of its location at the base of the mountains, there are dozens of world-class trails that are accessible just a short distance from the center of town.  Depending on your skill level and the time you have available, you can choose between short, easy routes that will take just a few hours to difficult multi-day adventures that will test your hiking and climbing skills.  Some of the most popular hiking trails in the area include Eagle Miradors, Laguna de Los Tres, Laguna Torre, and Condor Mirador.

The Town is Nestled inside Los Glaciares National Park

The town sits in the middle of the beautiful Los Glaciares National Park, so no trip to El Chaltén can be complete without taking a trip up to see a glacier.  Argentina’s largest glacier, Viedma Glacier, is located within the park on Lake Viedma and is renowned for its massive ice wall that rises up from the lake like the Wall in the HBO series Game of Thrones.

If you would like to explore the glacier, there are a variety of tours that you can book based on your experience and comfort level.  For those who may not be interested in doing a lot of hiking or glacier trekking, the area is also well known for its horseback tours that allow you to explore the stunning beauty of the area at a more leisurely pace.  Better yet, just throw down a blanket next to one of the area’s picturesque glacial lakes and enjoy the fact that you’re visiting heaven on Earth.

5.  Banff\Jasper National Parks

Out of all the destinations on my list of the Top 20 Mountain Travel Destinations, and there are some great destinations on this list, the most special place for me is undoubtedly the Banff and Jasper National Parks area in Alberta, Canada.  Growing up, my grandfather and father were larger-than-life figures and huge influences on my life and my budding love for travel.

One of my grandfather’s favorite places to talk about, and a place he always meant to take my father, was the beautiful Lake Louise near Banff National Park.  “Unparalleled beauty”, “out-of-this-world gorgeous”, “jaw-droppingly beautiful”, and nearly every other superlative that you can think of was used by my grandfather when he told us of this magical place he dreamed of sharing with us.

Sadly, my grandfather never got to take my father to see Lake Louise.  Life, as it often does, got in the way and they never got to make the trip.  Years after he passed, my father, mother, aunt, and I took a special road trip out through the Northwest, up through Glacier National Park in Montana, and into Banff National Park.  With my grandfather always on our minds, we explored the region to our utter delight.  I always thought my grandfather had to be exaggerating about the beauty of the area, but I never knew just how wrong I was until I set eyes on not only the stunning Lake Louise but the even more beautiful Lake Morraine.

Banff Looks Like it Was Lifted Out of Switzerland

The city of Banff looks and feels as though it was lifted out of some scraggly mountainside in Switzerland, and the whole area has a European Alps kind of feel.  Even if you aren’t up for hiking one of the area’s many amazing hiking paths, you will be content just to soak in the beautiful views and explore the shops and restaurants in Banff.  While you’re in town, taking the gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain to enjoy the breathtaking views from the top is an absolute must.

If you have the time, you will want to drive the Icefields Parkway that stretches into Jasper National Park and up through some of the most beautiful scenery in the area.  There are multiple waterfalls and an ice bridge that you can pull over and enjoy along the way.  No matter what you do when you visit, if your trip is half as memorable as mine, it will be one that you will never forget.  If you would like more information on when and how to visit Banff National Park, please check out my Banff National Park Visitor’s Guide referenced below.

There are so many amazing and beautiful mountain travel destinations in the country of Switzerland that I could easily do a Top 20 list of my recommendations for just that country alone.  However, one place stands above all else in my heart when I think about all the wonderful adventures I have had exploring the Swiss Alps.

As the home of the most photographed mountain in the world, it shouldn’t be much of a surprise that Zermatt is ranked high on any list that talks about the top mountain destinations in the world.  The Matterhorn, with its iconic scraggly peak, rises 14,692 feet (or 4,478 meters) high and towers above the town of Zermatt.  It is only the tenth tallest mountain in Switzerland, but its shape and location make it one of the most mesmerizing and charismatic mountains in the whole world.

Zermatt is Home to World-Class Climbing Routes

If you are an outdoor adventurer, you will absolutely love Zermatt.  Between miles of outstanding hiking trails, world-class climbing routes, to some of the best alpine and cross-country skiing in Europe, there is a seemingly endless amount of activities available to keep even the most eager outdoor adventurer entertained.  If you are looking for a unique experience to have in the Swiss Alps, then I would suggest taking the world’s first fully electrified cog railway and Europe’s highest open-air railway up to Gornergrat, where at 10,134 feet (or 3,089 meters) you can look over the Alps from the roof of Europe in complete and total awe.

In addition to getting some excellent close-up views of the Matterhorn, you will get to see the Gornergrat up close, which will blow your mind.  At just shy of 8 miles (or 12.4 km) long and roughly 1 mile (or 1.5 km) wide, it is an incredible sight to behold.  If you are planning a trip to Zermatt and would like more information on what to see or when and how to visit, please refer to my Visitor’s Guide to Zermatt, Switzerland referenced below.

3.  Queenstown

If you are an outdoor enthusiast or an adventure traveler, and chances are that you are both if you are reading this article, then I probably don’t need to sell you too hard on visiting Queenstown, New Zealand.  Widely considered to be the outdoor adventure capital of the world, the number of amazing outdoor adventure activities available to travelers in the area is simply mind-boggling.

Because Queenstown is located right in the middle of the breathtaking Southern Alps, it shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise that many of these activities center around the mountains.  The sheer beauty and awe-inspiring magnitude of the beauty of this area is one of the reasons Peter Jackson decided to film much of his Lord of the Rings trilogy in the Queenstown and Glenorchy area.

New Zealand’s South Island is the Hiking Capital of the World

If you love to hike, I personally consider New Zealand’s South Island to be the hiking capital of the entire world.  Seriously, there are more amazing hiking tracks on the South Island of New Zealand than my mind can comprehend.  Not really, but you get the point.  This place is chock-full of amazing hiking trails.  In the Queenstown area, one of the most prominent hikes that you can tackle is the Ben Lomond Track.

This roughly 8-mile (or roughly 13-kilometer) hike ascends over 4,300 feet (or 1,310 meters) to the Ben Lomond summit where you are treated to some of the most amazing views of Queenstown, the Southern Alps, and Lake Wakatipu.  If you aren’t up for doing the whole hike, you can cut a portion of the beginning off by taking the Skyline Gondola up to the Stratosphere Restaurant and then hiking from there.

In addition to having a lot of impressive hiking trails, the Queenstown area is also known for its wide variety of adventure activities.  If you have ever wanted to skydive, go bungy jumping, canyon swinging, jet boat riding, or any other extreme sport that you can think of, then Queenstown is a great place to check that activity off your bucket list.

I went skydiving for my first time on the South Island and it is an experience I will never forget.  I cannot think of more stunning scenery to look at while plunging towards the Earth than the beautiful Southern Alps.  If you are interested in planning a trip to Queenstown and would like more information on what to see and do, I have linked to my Essential Queenstown, New Zealand Travel Guide for you to review below.

2. Torres del Paine

Chilean patagonia.

If you ask most travel enthusiasts, they will tell you that there is a specific travel destination that they have wanted to go to above all others.  Most often, this is a destination that they have dreamed about for years but seem to have never found a way to make it there.  For me, that destination is the Patagonia region of South America.

For me, no other location on this Earth is as beautiful, as pristine, or as raw as the breathtaking landscapes at the Southern edge of South America.  When it comes to great spots in Patagonia to visit, I am not sure many mountain travel destinations compete with the iconic Torres del Paine National Park in Chile.  You might not know this park by name, but I am sure you have seen images of the three scraggly granite towers of Torres del Paine that have made this park an iconic travel hotspot for mountain enthusiasts.

But the beauty of the park extends beyond these beautiful peaks.  If you explore the park, you will find seemingly endless pine forests, emerald blue glacial lakes, gigantic glaciers that dwarf what your mind can imagine, and golden grasslands that seem like they can go on forever.  Add all of this up and you get one of the most beautiful and breathtaking landscapes you will find on this planet.  Yes, I am being dramatic with my descriptions, but at the same time, I am not.  This destination is worthy of the drama.

The Iconic “W” Hike is One of the World’s Most Renowned Hikes

Because of its beauty, the Torres del Paine National Park is a hugely popular travel destination for outdoor enthusiasts.  There are many iconic hikes that you can take in the park, with the iconic “W” hike being the most notable.  This four-day hike takes you through some of the most beautiful of the park’s landscapes and is achievable for most people who are in decent shape and have a fair amount of hiking experience.

It’s not overly technical, but the distance can be a factor if you aren’t used to long multi-day hikes.  If you aren’t up for a multi-day hike, there are also many day hikes that you can enjoy in the park.  The Laguna Azul, Mirador Las Torres, Mirador Ferrier, and Mirador Lago Skottsberg are just some of the examples.  If you are lucky enough to go on an adventure to see Torres del Paine National Park, you are certain to be in for an experience you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

1.  Mount Everest Base Camp

The last destination on my list of the Top 20 Mountain Travel Destinations in the World is certainly not the least, and especially not when it comes to the mountains at that destination.  Fourteen mountains on this planet are higher than 26,247 feet (or 8,000 meters) and ten of those mountains are within the Himalayas.  At 29,029 feet (or 8,848 meters) high, Mount Everest stands above all others as the tallest mountain in the world.

For some of this world’s most dedicated and ambitious outdoor adventurers, reaching the summit of Mount Everest is the ultimate goal.  If you are lucky enough to make it to the roof of the world, the views and the feeling of accomplishment must be amazing.  However, even if you don’t push for the summit of Everest, that doesn’t mean you can’t experience its magnificence or that you have to miss out on the complete adventure.

Hiking to Everest Base Camp Has Become a Tourist Destination

Tourist hikes to the Everest Base Camp, which alone sits at 17,600 feet (or 5,364 meters) high, are becoming increasingly popular in recent years.  With the out-of-this-world views that you see along the way and the challenge of getting to the base camp of the world’s tallest mountain as motivation, I can certainly see why.  However, just because you aren’t climbing the mountain, don’t be fooled into thinking it won’t be a challenge to get to base camp.

The trek to base camp itself covers 75 miles (or 12 kilometers) and ascends an altitude of 17,600 feet (or 5,364 meters), so the hike is no joke.  The hike does require a permit, so you will need to plan ahead if you are thinking about hiking to base camp.  Most hikers will hire a guide, but they are not required.  Whether you decide to hire one for your trek will ultimately depend on your experience and comfort level.  Either way, you are going to have the most amazing alpine hiking experience that this world has to offer.  Enjoy it and take lots of pictures!

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Published by Josh Hewitt

Avid traveler and photographer who loves to see new places, meet new people, and experience new things. There is so much this world can teach us, we just need to explore! View all posts by Josh Hewitt

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9 comments ›.

Kili and Everest Bc is next on my list!!

Awesome!!!! Kili was so surreal to see in person. Wish I had more time there to climb it. I am going to definitely have to go back. Everest would be amazing!!!

Thanks for the post great info

Thank you so much!! 😀

What a wonderful post. I love mountains. Reading about the Pyrenees was especially poignant, given the cancelled trip, but we have all committed (verbally, at least) to giving it a try again next summer (especially since the Pyrenees accommodation would only give an 18-month voucher, not an actual refund of the deposit). Considering climbing another 14er this summer. We’ll see what happens. Thanks for a very picturesque start to my day!

Thank you so much!!!! I am so bummed that your trip got cancelled, but am glad you rescheduled already. I absolutely LOVE the mountains too!! Hopefully will bag my first few 14ers this summer 😃👍

Sooo many of these are on my bucket list!! My favourites have got to be Banff National Park and Mount Cook (just the entirety of the south island of New Zealand to be honest!). South America really looks incredible too, I always forget just how stunning it is until I get reminders like this.

My bucket list keeps growing too!! The South Island of New Zealand and Banff are EPIC!! 😀👍

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• 1 Park City, UT
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• 4 Telluride, CO
• 5 Truckee, CA
• 6 Crested Butte, CO
• 8 Sun Valley, ID
• 9 Asheville, NC

The 9 Best Mountain Towns in America

There are few vacations more head-clearing than a mountain getaway. Between the blasts of crisp alpine air and the breathtaking scenery—dense forests, towering peaks, and postcard-perfect main streets—a mountain escape promises a true recharge. Read on for 9 of this country's best.

A Brooklyn-based writer and editor, Chelsea's work has appeared in Matador Network, The Huffington Post, the TripAdvisor blog, and more. When not planning her next trip, you'll usually find her drinking way too much iced coffee (always iced—she’s from New England) or bingeing a Netflix original series.

See recent posts by Chelsea Stuart

Park City, UT

Think of this postcard-perfect town as a liberal refuge in the otherwise conservative state of Utah. It lays claim to High West , the first distillery to open in UT since Prohibition, and hosts the famed Sundance Film Festival each winter. The U.S. Ski Team call Park City home, and for good reason: the town offers easy access to both Deer Valley and Park City Mountain Resort (the largest ski facility in North America), as well as an Olympic training facility with a bobsled/skeleton/luge track and ski jumping. Visit between May and August to take advantage of crisp mountain temperatures that are typically 20 degrees cooler than nearby Salt Lake City, and to access the more than 400 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails that weave through the neighboring Wasatch Mountain Range . Though if you choose to visit during autumn, you'll witness the aspen groves transform into a sea of glittering gold.

Where to Stay: Montage Deer Valley

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Park City, UT hotels

Long before Aspen was Colorado’s most haute (and expensive) mountain town, it was a playground for intrepid rock climbers and skiers. While a visit here today offers an array of next-level restaurants, boutiques, and luxe après-ski bars, you can still tap into the area’s frontier spirit. Head out to explore the extensive network of trails that lead to high-alpine azure lakes, massive meadows, rocky crags, and gushing waterfalls, or to one of the area's four ski mountains (which offer year-round outdoor recreation). No matter what kind of adventure you seek, unwind with a $5 pint at Aspen Brewing Company or go for a glass of whisky at Hotel Jerome , a onetime favorite haunt of gonzo journalist and Aspen local Hunter S. Thompson.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Aspen, CO hotels

Jackson, WY

Warning: Jackson might ruin other mountain towns for you. The rugged locale offers access to the vertiginous peaks of Grand Teton National Park , as well as Yellowstone National Park ’s eastern gateway (only 60 miles west) and the world-class mountain resort of Jackson Hole, just 20 minutes from town. Start within city limits and wander through the divey saloons and art galleries, and get your photo in front of the famed elk antler arch in the town square. From there, first-timers should drive through Teton Pass to experience the inimitable beauty of Wyoming’s towering granite peaks. Recharge with belly-warming fare (think root vegetable gratin and bone marrow) at Cafe Genevieve , a cozy, log cabin-style restaurant known for its home cooked classics, before bedding down at  Hotel Jackson .

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Jackson, WY hotels

Telluride, CO

Telluride is the prototypical mountain town, nestled cozily into the end of a box canyon and surrounded on three sides by the towering peaks of the San Juan Mountains , with Bridal Veil Falls at the canyon’s head. A free gondola connects the central town with the pedestrian-friendly Mountain Village, which operates as the base for Telluride Ski Resort . This high-alpine resort sits at 8,725 feet with access to legions of above-treeline outdoor activity in all seasons. If you visit during the winter, be sure to dine at the resort’s Alpino Vino , which serves a five-course Northern Italian dinner and ranks as the highest-elevation high-end restaurant in North America. The town also has an award-winning brewery and a distillery (naturally), as well as a host of guides and outfitters to help you reach some of Colorado’s most iconic hiking, biking, fishing, cross-country skiing, and rafting.

Where to Stay: The Hotel Telluride

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Telluride, CO hotels

Truckee, CA

Although Truckee, like other Tahoe-area towns, has experienced skyrocketing real estate prices as the result of high buyers' interest from the San Francisco area, this gem of a town has managed to retain its rough-and-tumble spirit. Perhaps that’s due to Truckee’s storied origins as a way-station for the Transcontinental Railroad, originally named Coburn Station. Sitting just north of Lake Tahoe, Truckee lies within easy striking distance of the 191-square-mile lake as well as the ski resorts scattered throughout the northern region of the Sierras. Spend your days exploring the wild, whether that means climbing, paddle-boarding, snowboarding, biking, or swimming, then close out the day with craft beers and people-watching at Old Town Tap before resting your head at  Great Bear Lodge .

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Truckee, CA hotels

Crested Butte, CO

When the coal and silver mines of Crested Butte shut down in the '50s, many residents left the area. Skiing largely saved the mountain town and now it offers some of the country’s most extreme terrain as well as a hippy vibe that’s proudly antithetical to other Colorado resort towns like Vail. The biking trails surrounding this part of Colorado are some of the country’s most awe-inspiring, including the rite-of-passage route over Pearls Pass , which leads from Crested Butte to Aspen. But if you'd rather keep both feet on the ground, there is a range of other outdoor activities—hiking, camping, rafting—to keep you entertained.

Where to Stay: Lodge at Mountaineer Square

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Crested Butte, CO hotels

Reaching the slopes of Bachelor Ski Resort (or any other Cascade peak) requires a 30-minute drive from downtown Bend, but enduring a short ride is a small price to pay considering your killer locale. The sleepy high-desert town is near Drake Park and has far more award-winning breweries than any other mountain hideaway. Start with a hike up Pilot Butte , an extinct volcano in the center of town, and take in the vistas of the Cascade Range. From there, your next adventure could include anything from a helicopter tour over the Three Sisters Wilderness to riding golfboards (basically larger-format, motorized skateboards) at Tetherow Resort to mountain biking the sinewy singletrack.

Where to Stay: McMenamins Old St. Francis School

Sun Valley, ID

Sun Valley’s origin story isn’t tied to mining or laying railroad tracks. Rather, it's the birthplace of resort skiing in North America, following its 1936 founding by lifelong skier and Union Pacific Railroad chairman W. Averell Harriman. Snow-starved Hollywood celebrities (like Cary Grant and Earnest Hemingway) reinforced Sun Valley’s rep as the place to see and be seen, and a whole new generation fell in love with the central Idaho region. Today’s Sun Valley still delivers a singular skiing/snowboarding experience, now spread across two mountains broken into Dollar Mountain —the beginner’s peak, and Bald Mountain — a 3,400-foot vertical drop with legions of intermediate and advanced runs. The resort itself is anchored by a Tyrolean-style pedestrian village with plenty of high-end dining, lodging, and après ski pursuits like ice skating.

Where to Stay: Knob Hill Inn

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Sun Valley-Ketchum, ID hotels

Asheville, NC

The Blue Ridge Mountain peaks may not be the tallest in America, but what they lack in stature, they more than make up for in scenic beauty and easy access. The Asheville area has hundreds of hiking trails which lead to secret waterfalls, rivers swimming with fish, and vistas overlooking rolling ridge lines. After a day on the mountain, head to town and check out the art galleries, historic architecture, hip restaurants, and craft beer spots, then post up at the charming Windsor Boutique Hotel .

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Asheville, NC hotels

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• Fall Travel Ideas

32 Charming Mountain Towns To Visit This Fall

While there are many things to miss about summer once it has left us, we can't help but get excited about the start of a new season full of stunning scenery , cozy fires, and warm seasonal dishes. Ah, fall—we love you so. From the cascading colors of autumn leaves to the abundance of fun fall activities , the turn of the season is quite something, even down here in the South. We have access to some breathtaking mountain views, and there's no better way to experience them than by setting your sights on a relaxing (or adventurous!) mountain getaway. Whether you're looking for outdoor excursions, great scenery, or quaint villages, these charming Southern mountain towns should be next on your list of places to visit this fall.

Alpine, Texas

We consider Alpine a West Texas showstopping stunner. Big Bend National Park is a must-see when visiting this part of Texas , and you'll have a front-row seat to stunning mountain vistas and views. Explore the bustling little town in between ventures into the rugged terrain.

Arcadia Valley, Missouri

This Missouri town is a gem hidden among the mountains. Arcadia located in the southeastern part of the state and is surrounded by the St. Francois Mountains. Find lots of opportunities for camping, biking, hiking, fishing, and shopping for locally made wares.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is a mountain town with undeniable character and quirk. There are endless activities, hiking trails, and great food and drinks to experience during a trip to this artsy town. Make sure to visit the Biltmore while you're there, too.

Banner Elk, North Carolina

This North Carolina town has long been a favorite of Southern travelers due to its restaurants, wineries, and breweries that welcome visitors with plenty of Southern hospitality and menus filled with delicious dishes to try. It has all the small-town charm you want near the season's changing leaves.

Berkeley Springs, West Virginia

The warm mineral waters that flow from the springs of Berkeley Springs State Park are why this town is known as a relaxing natural spa, complete with a bathhouse that opened in 1930. The town is only 90 minutes from the D.C. area, so you can make it a joint trip to the mountains and the country's capital.

Blowing Rock, North Carolina

If you choose to visit Blowing Rock, you can look forward to beautiful, far-reaching views along the Blue Ridge Parkway and a charming mountain village. Popular attractions such as Tweetsie Railroad and The Blowing Rock await, along with the outdoor adventures of hiking, biking, and bouldering.

Blue Ridge, Georgia

Blue Ridge is one of the special places where you can do just about anything and you'll always have a great view. Hike to local waterfalls, go horseback riding in the Chattahoochee National Forest, go on a whitewater rafting excursion, ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway , or enjoy water activities on Lake Blue Ridge. As we said, anything is possible here.

Boone, North Carolina

Enjoy a luxury stay in small-town Boone , North Carolina. Start by booking a room in The Horton Hotel's beautiful property, which has a rooftop lounge for taking in the charming downtown and picturesque Blue Ridge views. You can also stay in the area's cozy mountain cabins to enjoy fresh mountain air out among the stars.

Bristol, Virginia

With all due respect to Nashville lovers, Bristol —located in the Blue Ridge Highlands region of Virginia—was the location of the first country music recordings made for national distribution. You'll find "The Birthplace of Country Music" on The Crooked Road: Virginia's Heritage Music Trail. Fun fact: It lies directly on the Virginia/Tennessee state line, so you can stand in two Southern states at once in the bustling downtown area.

Cashiers, North Carolina

Located on a plateau in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Cashiers is a traditional mountain town full of quiet lakes, scenic peaks, and calming waterfalls. This town is an amazing destination if you're looking for a relaxing nature escape.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga is no stranger to lists of top destinations in the country. As far mountain getaways go, it offers the best of both worlds: urban dining, entertainment, and nightlife, as well as beautiful scenery and plenty of outdoor adventure. One of the best places in town: the riverfront near the Tennessee Aquarium.

Dahlonega, Georgia

Dahlonega , nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, gives you a rustic mountain getaway only an hour or so north of Atlanta. Hike breathtaking mountain vistas, climb stairs alongside the steep Amicalola Falls , visit local wineries, and shop around in the thriving historic downtown .

Elkins, West Virginia

This charming West Virginia town is next to the Monongahela National Forest, a fantastic spot for outdoor adventurers exploring the wilderness. To see the sights, you can book a ticket on the area's Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad , which will take you into the Appalachians to experience the changing leaves. See the foliage up close on hiking and biking trails crisscrossing the area.

Ellijay, Georgia

Flannel-clad visitors love Georgia's apple capital in the fall. They travel to this area of the Blue Ridge Mountains to pick apples, enjoy cups of cider, and take in the beautiful views. Check out B.J. Reece Orchards and nearby Mercier Orchards in Blue Ridge for a seasonal apple crop to savor.

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

There's no shortage of things to do in Eureka Springs . It's a town that prides itself on being a gateway to many outdoor activities. In addition, you'll also find it to be an oasis of great culinary delights, a thriving village for shopping, and a destination for entertainment and relaxation.

Frostburg, Maryland

Another charming mountain town with an inviting red-brick downtown Frostburg, Maryland , is filled with shops, galleries, and restaurants to keep you busy after exploring the surrounding area and hopping a ride on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad .

Heber Springs, Arkansas

This Arkansas town is next to Greers Ferry Lake, where visitors can enjoy spectacular views and forests, hiking trails, and an array of spots to see the season's changing foliage. The nearby Buckeye Trail is a wheelchair-accessible National Recreation Trail, and there are many other areas for fishing, visiting waterfalls, and seeing the sights.

Helen, Georgia

Get a Bavarian Village experience in this charming small town that encompasses only 2.1 square miles. Little hotels and inns, cobblestone walkways, and outdoor activities will make your visit the most memorable. You will love the quaint architecture of the German-inspired village, and if you play your cards right, you can catch plenty of fall fun when the town hosts its annual Oktoberfest celebration beginning in September.

Highlands, North Carolina

Highlands can only be described as a refined mountain town. Apart from its breathtaking scenic views during the fall, it's a quiet, secluded retreat with amenities like fine art galleries, elegant dining, and a charming Main Street.

Lewisburg, West Virginia

Nestled among the Allegheny Mountains, Lewisburg offers travelers more than just outdoor fun. The 241-year-old town offers original architecture and a thriving Historic District where you can enjoy a Lewisberg's history and tradition. You don't want to miss the surrounding mountains drenched with rich hues during autumn.

Mentone, Alabama

Check into rustic, charming lodging, such as the Mountain View Inn , perched on Lookout Mountain's edge, for stunning views when visiting Mentone . Visit DeSoto Falls , a 100-foot waterfall on the outskirts of town, via an easy, paved path for those not looking for an arduous hike.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Not only are you on the cusp of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park , but you have access to Dollywood , an outdoor gravity park, and plenty of shows when you visit Pigeon Forge. This mountain town is great for families because it's full of things to do, many of which are kid-friendly.

Ponca, Arkansas

If you've ever seen the Ozarks, then you know that they're a natural wonder and a true Southern treasure. They set the scene for endless outdoor exploration and activities. Ponca lets you experience it all firsthand. Check out Buffalo Outdoor Center to book all the outdoor adventure your heart desires.

Red River Gorge, Kentucky

You can stay inside the Natural Bridge State Resort 's Hemlock Lodge, where you'll be closest to the famous Red River Gorge . Beloved by Kentuckians, this breathtaking area is known for its overhanging cliffs that draw rock climbers from around the world.

Roanoke, Virginia

For unforgettable country sights, travel to Roanoke, Virginia. This Blue Ridge destination has markets, boutiques, restaurants, and hiking along the Appalachian Trail. Nearby Smith Mountain Lake also offers boating or kayaking on the Upper James River Water Trail. Visit once, and you'll leave plotting your return trip.

Staunton, Virginia

You're at a great vantage point in Staunton because you can explore both the Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Spend time in the fun downtown and along historic Main Street. The town is also home to the Stonewall Jackson Hotel and 13 breweries in the area.

Sugar Mountain, North Carolina

This mountain town is probably better defined as a resort village. It's an exciting escape that draws visitors with its Sugar Mountain Resort , a lively spot with plenty of ski slopes and trails, as well as an outdoor ice rink for testing out your skating skills.

Thomas, West Virginia

Find a charming red-brick downtown filled with locally-owned shops and galleries in Thomas, West Virginia. This small town lies next to Blackwater Falls State Park , a destination for seeing fall foliage and waterfalls.

Vanderpool, Texas

Located in the Texas Hill Country, the town of Vanderpool lets you escape city life and immerse yourself in nature. (OK, so maybe there aren't actual mountains here, but Vanderpool has such gorgeous fall vistas that we couldn't keep it off the list.) Gaze at some beautiful scenery at Lost Maples State Natural Area , and visit the historic Lone Star Motorcycle Museum , with its 50 classic motorcycles, to get an authentic taste of Texas.

Walland, Tennessee

It's no secret that we're huge fans of Blackberry Farm , a lovely, lush resort located in this mountain town. You'll be snug in the Great Smoky Mountains with access to incredible views and some seriously fabulous food.

Bryson City, North Carolina

An hour west of Asheville sits a tranquil mountain town that borders the Great Smoky Mountains National Park . Visitors can enjoy various water activities, from fishing to kayaking on the Nantahala River. The scenic trails offer even more family-friendly activities. The railroad excursions, trout fishing, and horseback riding will keep you occupied for days.

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

There is something special about the historic community of Harpers Ferry . This gem tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains immerses visitors in the area's history while uncovering the beauty found in the natural surroundings. The Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers converge around this town, which is also a landmark for the first successful American railroad.

Related Articles

Colorado Bucket List: 25 Cool Places to Visit in Colorado

Alpine lakes, hot springs, mining towns, mountain towns, sand dunes, and 14ers: the sheer variety of travel destinations that make up any list of the best places to visit in Colorado is magnificent.

Known for its snowcapped peaks, national parks, hiking trails, skiing, and beyond, Colorado is, without a doubt, one of the coolest states to visit in the USA.

If you’re looking for some new Colorado vacation spots to add to your itinerary, this Colorado bucket list is for you.

Here are the coolest places in Colorado to visit!

Table of Contents

Colorado National Parks For Your Bucket List

Cool cities + small towns to visit in co, more of the best places to visit in colorado.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Colorado is home to four stunning national parks to visit–and despite the Centennial State’s reputation for its incredible Rocky Mountain landscapes, each park is incredibly unique and well worth a visit!

Rocky Mountain National Park

Welcoming more than 3 million visitors each year, Rocky Mountain National Park is not only the state’s most popular national park, it’s easily one of the top places to visit in Colorado as a whole!

From snowcapped mountains to alpine lakes, and from challenging hikes to relaxing scenic drives, Rocky Mountain National Park has options for all kinds of travelers–the only thing you truly need to justify a visit is an appreciation for alpine beauty.

Some of the most popular things to do in RMNP include visiting Bear Lake, hiking to Emerald Lake and Dream Lake, driving the beautiful Trail Ridge Road, and checking out Old Fall River Road (either by car or by foot depending on the season).

If you’re visiting in winter, don’t worry, much of the park is still accessible–just be prepared to lace up your cross country skis to visit some of the most popular lakes!

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

From Megan of Red Around the World

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park  is an often-overlooked national park in Gunnison, Colorado–but if you add it to your list of beautiful places in Colorado to visit, there’s no doubt that you’ll be blown away.

It is one of the deepest canyons in North America at 8,043 feet deep.  It’s hard to imagine that, even when you’re there looking at it.  It’s easiest to visit the South Rim just outside of Gunnison which is also where you can access the river at the bottom of the canyon.

There is also access to the North Rim which is perfect if you want to get away from the already meager crowds. 

Keep in mind that though the two rims look close to each other on a map, they’re a couple hours worth of driving apart.

While the park isn’t bursting with hiking trails, there are quite a few to choose from and just as many amazing viewpoints to stop at. 

Keep your eyes peeled for bears while you’re exploring the park.  

Even if you just have a couple of hours, it’s totally worth visiting.  Most of the trails are short, under three miles round-trip. 

The Oak Flat Loop Trail is great for people looking to hike below the rim but not all the way to the river.  It’s two miles round-trip and can be narrow in some places, so be careful. 

Also make sure to drive down to the river, even if just for the experience.

Mesa Verde National Park

From James of Parks Collecting

Mesa Verde National Park  is home to 600 cliff dwellings. 

The Ancient Puebloans built their villages in overhangs in the side of steep cliffs and climbed down from above, using hand and footholds carved directly into the cliff. 

Today, you can see many of them from overlooks at the top of the mesa and see some of them up close on guided tours.  Bear in mind that you need to climb down ladders or steep steps to visit them.

The cliff dwellings are truly incredible to see.  Highlights include Cliff Palace (the largest), Long House, and Balcony House (where you need to crawl through a very narrow tunnel to exit).

Each year, some of the other dwellings are also opened up to small group visits, with a ranger as a guide.  You need to hike to these, and often climb down the original hand and footholds (with the help of modern-day chains to make it safer). 

Whether you see the cliff dwellings from overlooks, on a guided tour, or a small group back-country hike, you are sure to be fascinated by them.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

From Rai of A Rai of Light

Great Sand Dunes National Park, found in the Saguache and Alamosa Counties of southern Colorado, encompasses more than 100,000 acres of open-air adventure.

The fascination not only lies with the tallest sand dunes in North America, but also the surrounding landscape that features forests, snow-capped mountains, and rivers.

There is so much to do that 3 days is the minimum number of days to spend in and around the surrounding area. Top sights in the preserve include High Dune, Zapata Falls, Medano Pass.

Sandboarding is a popular activity and should not be missed. Other activities worth trying include sledding, horseback riding, and hiking to catch a beautiful sunrise .

The park is always open and no reservations are required. However, the best time to visit is during spring and fall.

The closest town is Mosca, but the park is easily reached from any major city as the San Luis Valley Airport is a mere 45-minute drive from the park’s entrance.

Known as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, the charming small town of Estes Park easily ranks among the best places to visit in Colorado.

With its beautiful downtown (don’t miss a chance to stroll along the riverwalk!), its huge prevalance of elk living in and around the town, its beautiful lake, and the world-class nature of nearby hiking opportunities, Estes Park belongs on any Colorado bucket list.

While in Estes Park, be sure to stop by the historic Park Theatre, consider a whitewater rafting trip, go for a scenic drive, check out one of the town’s breweries, and pay a visit to the beautiful Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s The Shining.

Even if you don’t check in, the hotel is still worth a peak!

And, of course, the main attraction lies just outside of town: no trip to Estes Park is complete without plenty of time spent in Rocky Mountain National Park!

Where to Stay in Estes Park

• Mountain Shadows Resort: Get into the rustic feel with these incredible cottages in Estes Park. Cottages have private terraces, hot tubs and wooden 4-poster beds.
• Hotel Estes : These fabulous pet friendly cabins are close to Rocky Mountain National Park with mountain views, great facilities such as an outdoor swimming pool for those warmer months.

Crested Butte

From Martina + Jurgen of PlacesofJuma

Crested Butte in the Rocky Mountains is probably one of the most recommended places to visit in Colorado.

It is famous as a ski resort and is also considered to be the capital of wildflowers, making Crested Butte a fantastic year-round travel destination in Colorado.

In winter, the challenging ski slopes attract the best skiers and snowboarders. The cross-country ski trails, which are located around the city, add a special beauty to the unique landscape.

In the warm months, mountain bikers and hikers come to experience the unique nature of the region and the splendor of the flowers.

But not only is the surrounding nature gorgeous, but the town is also pretty too!

Crested Butte is an extremely pedestrian-friendly town, and walking around, you will discover picturesque historical buildings, great restaurants, and plenty of mountain views.

We also recommend a visit in July, when the famous Crested Butte Wildflower Festival takes place.

Where to Stay in Crested Butte

• Nordic Inn: This comfortable hotel is a great place to rest after exploring. There is a Great Room with complimentary games and views over Mt. Crested Butte, there is also a large hot tub to enjoy. Rooms are spacious and really cosy.
• Public House Lofts: As the name suggests these rooms are over a really great bar called Public House, perfectly located for getting home quickly at the end of the evening! The rooms are modern, comfortable and really well designed. Definitely a great spot to stay in Crested Butte.

Colorado’s capital city is arguably one of the trendiest and fastest-growing cities in the country–and given that Denver offers a fantastic array of things to do while also being located within proximity of epic mountain hikes, it’s no surprise.

Known for its breweries, parks, and proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park as well as popular mountain towns like Boulder and Estes Park, Denver makes a fantastic weekend getaway destination .

While you’re in Denver, consider catching a game at Coor’s Field, seeing a show at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, strolling down the 16th Street Mall, stopping by Larimer Square, and–of course–hitting up a few of those popular breweries.

If you’re looking to add some museum-hopping to your Denver itinerary , the city also has you covered, from classics like the Denver Art Museum to more unique options like the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum.

Steamboat Springs

From Liz of Peanuts or Pretzels

Steamboat Springs might be a popular ski town in Colorado and home to many former Olympians, but a visit here can feel less like your typical Colorado ski resort vacation and more like an adventure.

This is a town with a vibrant local community, humorous traditions, and lively Western history.

A four-season destination, there’s plenty of things to do year-round in Steamboat. But for many, winter is the most magical time.

Winter sports are everywhere, not just the main ski resort.

The locals even have their own hill in the center of town and during the Winter Carnival each February, the town comes alive with ski contests (complete with light-up costumes and fireworks), outdoor concerts, sculptures, and parades where horses pull thrill-seekers on skis over jumps right through the middle of town!

After all of that winter fun, take a soothing dip in one of the  hot springs around town , such as Strawberry Hot Springs, a local favorite for its natural scenery tucked back in a canyon. 

Where to Stay in Steamboat Springs

• For a premium place to stay, book into the Sheraton Steamboat Resort Villas . This is a classic excellent quality large hotels with all the facilities you would expect. Guaranteed great stay
• Chalet Val d’Isere is also a fabulous option but with more of a homely vibe. There are just a few rooms and it is a classic ski lodge style cabin complete with plenty of cozy features.

Breckenridge

From Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

Consistently ranked among the best places to visit in Colorado, Breckenridge is a charming town in the heart of the Rockies with non-stop activities and scenic beauty.

Visit the craft breweries and fabulous restaurants in this town surrounded by mountain peaks. Breckenridge chefs feature local farm-to-table ingredients. In Breckenridge’s historic district you can learn the story of this old mining town.

Breckenridge is famous for its world-class cross country and alpine skiing, making it one of the most classic Colorado vacation spots. The Breckenridge ski resort boasts 5 mountains and 187 trails.

In the summer you will find wildflowers as you hike into an alpine meadow or a cascading waterfall. In fall, the blazing colors of the aspens are spectacular.

Breckenridge is an outdoor enthusiast’s mecca. Rafting, ziplining, fly fishing, and biking are a few of the outdoor adventures to try. Hikers will love the hundreds of nearby trails.

Don’t miss a chance to take the free gondola ride up into the mountains. It’s not unusual to see moose or a bald eagle from your vantage point high above the meadows.

Where to Stay in Breckenridge

• The Ranahan: These aparthotel suites are perfect for your stay in Breckenridge. Each room has its own kitchenette but the hotel also has great on site facilities including a fabulous bar and outside fire pit area.
• Mountain Valley Lodge : A great Marriott resort with all the expected facilities, rooms are really spacious and all have great views of the mountains. There is also an onsite spa, swimming pool and ski storage.

Glenwood Springs

From Mark of Summer Camp Hub

Glenwood Springs is a city right by the Rocky Mountains famous for being home to some of the best hot springs in Colorado .

It’s renowned as an excellent Colorado vacation spot for just about everyone, including families and would-be adventurers. 

If you’re looking to soak in hot springs, you need to visit Iron Mountain Hot Springs. There are 16 hot springs you can enjoy while getting a scenic view of the Rocky Mountains.

If you’re looking to go hiking, then the Glenwood Canyon is readily available with hikes like the Grizzly Creek and the Hanging Lake. 

There are also plenty of other outdoor thrilling activities you can do like paragliding and rafting.

If you’re visiting as a family, there are plenty of outdoor kid-friendly activities children can participate in.

With such a huge opportunity for children to receive an outdoor education, it’s no surprise that there are numerous summer camps in the state  and city. 

Apart from outdoor adventures to partake in, be sure to visit the famous comedy shows that go on at the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue.

Where to Stay in Glenwood Springs

• Glenwood Springs B&B: Fancy staying in a piece of history? This quaint B&B is over 100 years old and is exceptionally well maintained. Many of the rooms have deep claw-foot bathtubs and if that isn’t enough water for you there is a huge jacuzzi for guests.
• Hanging Lake Inn: For something more classic this Inn is a great option. Facilities are fresh and modern, and there is a lovely porch area with views of the hills.

Manitou Springs

From Melissa of Navigation Junkie

Manitou Springs is a historic city located just outside of Colorado Springs with roots tracing back to the Pikes Peak gold rush.

It is the perfect Colorado bucket list destination for some small-town charm, natural beauty, culture, and fun!

A visit to Manitou Springs would not be complete without taking a  self-guided walking tour of the springs. There are eight springs in total along a 1.4-mile trail through town, each with its own unique mineral content.

The Manitou Cliff Dwellings, authentic relocated Pueblos, is another must-visit spot in Manitou Springs.

For some more hiking, climb the Incline near Pikes Peak for some stunning views, or if you prefer not to hike, drive the Pikes Peak Highway to the summit.

After a long day of exploring, find plenty of food and bar options in downtown Manitou Springs.

If traveling with kids, be sure to check out the world-famous Penny Arcade for games, kiddie rides, and prizes! And finally stop in at Pike’s Peak Ice Cream for some tasty treats and ice cream! 

Where to Stay in Manitou Springs

• Cliff House: Looking like something out of a fairy story this fabulous hotel has wonderful old-world charm, pretty views, and some rooms even have working fireplaces!
• Magnuson Grand : For more of a classic modern hotel this is a great option. The facilities are lovely and there are mountain views throughout. It is also minutes away from the waterfalls and Garden of the Gods.

From Daria of The Discovery Nut

Telluride is a small but mighty town with colorful mining history and unparalleled landscapes that draw visitors from all over the country. 

Tucked away in the box canyon in San Juan Mountains in southwest Colorado, Telluride is definitely an exclusive destination as it’s not easy to get to. It takes about 5-6 hours from Denver to get here, and the local airport doesn’t have big commercial flights. 

Telluride is a scenic destination that is renowned for its year-round outdoor opportunities, gorgeous nature, and a vibrant art scene, so it’s not just skiing that brings so many people here (Although Telluride does have some great slopes). 

Telluride also offers some of the best hiking trails in Colorado from the iconic Blue Lakes a short drive away to Jud Wiebe Memorial Trail that can be accessed from downtown Telluride.

For an amazing experience, take a free gondola between Telluride and Mountain Village from where you can get a panoramic view of the San Juan Mountains. 

Visitors also enjoy an ice rink at Hotel Madeline or get a tour of the area to learn about its history of silver mining.

Downtown Telluride is home to a big art scene with several galleries and you can easily participate in one of the organized tours. 

Where to Stay in Telluride

• Mountain Lodge: This classic chalet style aparthotel offers wonderful fully equipped, spacious apartments. It is nestled in the mountains and has onsite spa facilities and a great restaurant.
• The Bivvi Hostel: Don’t let the hostel name fool you! The facilities here are excellent are there is more to offer than crowded dorm-rooms. Private rooms are spacious and have private bathrooms. Shared facilities onsite feature billiards, a hot tub, garden and pretty terrace.

From Jess of I’m Jess Traveling

Vail, Colorado is one of the best places to visit in the state.  Known for its world-class ski runs and luxurious accommodations, Vail is a sought-after destination worldwide. 

You can travel to Vail year-round but the best time to visit Vail is in the winter.  With over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain, Vail Ski Resort is not only one of the biggest in the United States but it’s also extremely popular. 

From the legendary back bowls to the bunny hill, Vail mountain offers something for every ability level. 

Vail Village is full of boutique shops, fun bars, and tasty restaurants.  One of the best bars in Vail Village is Vendetta’s.  Come here for a fun environment, apres drinks, and cheap pizza.  

If you are looking for more of an intimate dining experience reserve a table at one of the several on-mountain restaurants like Game Creek. 

Whatever it is that peaks your interest, Vail, Colorado is a Colorado travel destination for the whole family to enjoy.  

Where to Stay in Vail

• Lodge at Lionscreek: The location for this hotel is perfect, it is right next to the transit point for the ski lifts. Ski equipment is also available for rental on site if you don’t bring your own. The facilities are excellent, rooms have views over Gore Creek and are all private apartment style with their own kitchen facilities, some of the larger ones also have beautiful dining spaces in case you want to host!
• Tivoli Lodge: For a hotel set up this is a great option, rooms are fabulous and quite large. The hotel itself is a few meters away from several slope and ski lifts, it also has an onsite cocktail lounge for après-ski!

Pagosa Springs

From Agnes of The Van Escape

Pagosa Springs is a town picturesquely situated on the San Juan River in the southwestern part of Colorado.

It is worth adding it to the  road trip itinerary, especially when you plan also visit Durango and Great Sand Dunes National Park. Pagosa Springs will be the perfect stop for a longer break on the US-160W route.

The town is famous for its magnificent thermal springs, thanks to which it owes its name. In Ute, “pagosah” means “healing waters.” Pagosa is the home of the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring.

So, the best thing you can do in this town is soaked up the hot springs and relax.

The mineral-rich waters fill the baths at The Springs Resort & Spa, The Overlook Hot Springs, and Healing Waters Resort & Spa. Each of them is open to the public.

In addition to the hot springs resorts, there are interesting and picturesque hiking trails around Pagosa Springs. You can admire fabulous waterfalls like Treasure Falls or Piedra Falls. Moreover, rafting and kayaking trips are popular on the San Juan River.

Where to Stay in Pagosa Springs

• The Nightingale Motel: Well located with pretty views and excellent rooms, complete with private balcony. There is also an onsite bar to refresh after visiting the hot springs.
• For a homely self contained option the Fireside Cabins are fabulous. Decor is in keeping with the mountain theme and the kitchens are well equipped with everything you need.

Colorado Springs

From Jenny of Limitless Hiker

Spend a weekend or even a long weekend exploring Colorado Springs . It’s the perfect amount of time to experience the highlights of this small town in Colorado.

Colorado Springs is well known for its Manitou Springs Incline which gains nearly 2,000 feet of elevation over less than 1 mile. Whether you’re looking for a tough workout to start training for Colorado 14ers (14,000-foot mountains), or just want to challenge yourself, this incline trail is a must.

Colorado Springs is also known for the beautiful Garden of the Gods park.

The Garden of the Gods is known for its bright orange rock formations. It’s a popular spot among rock climbers or you can spend some time biking around or even hiking around.

Next on the list of must-see places in Colorado Springs is Pikes Peak. Which is the only 14er in this area. You have the option of hiking to the top, which is 26.2 miles round trip with around 7,500 feet of elevation gain, or you could also hike one way and have someone pick you up at the top. The other alternative is to drive to the top. 

After you’ve had a good workout from all of that hiking, head over to the SunWater Spa and soak in their hot springs. This is a rewarding treat after a hard workout.

Where to Stay in Colorado Springs

• The Lodge at Flying Horse is a stunning option for your stay in Colorado Springs. The resort is a European-style 18-hole golf course with views across the grounds and incredible facilities.
• To stay in the heart of Downtown book into Kinship Landing . Rooms are clean and stylish, and if you are on a budget they have great dorm rooms available.

From Ankita of My Travelling Stilettos

Nestled in the Roaring Fork Valley in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Aspen is the most famous ski resort town in the US and one of the best vacation spots in Colorado.

Long snowy winters thanks to the elevation of 8000 ft and proximity of four world-renowned Ski Resorts made it the favorite ski destination for celebrities and private citizens alike.

It is situated 200 miles away from Denver and can be reached easily by road.

Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, snowmobiling, sledding are the most popular activities to do in the winter.

Not an adventure junkie? Explore Aspen town.

Visit Wheeler Opera House and Hotel Jerom, catch glimpses of annual film and music festivals or experience a fine dining meal from the plethora of world-class restaurants.

Spring and falls are the ideal time to take mountain gondola rides to the top of Elks Mountains and enjoy breathtaking views along the way.

Aspen has many hiking and mountain biking trails to enjoy when it is not snowing.

Where to Stay in Aspen

• Limelight Hotel is a superb option in Aspen, and great value for money. There is a hot tub, outdoor pool and a rooftop terrace to enjoy in warmer months. Rooms are spacious and many include kitchenettes.
• The W also has a fabulous hotel here in Aspen with all the top range facilities you would expect. Rooms are excellent with luxury details, such as fluffy bathrobes and towels. There are also bikes available for free use should you want to explore Aspen on wheels.

Grand Junction

From Trijit of Budget Travel Buff

Looking to get beyond Colorado’s famous ski towns and find some  cheaper places in Colorado to visit that are still worthy of a Colorado bucket list? Look no further than Grand Junction.

Located at the confluence of the Gunnison and Colorado rivers, Grand Junction is such a beautiful place that offers everything from natural scenic views to Colorado adventures without burning a hole in your pocket.

It is just a short drive away from Utah and around 245 miles away from Denver. Not only for outdoor adventures but this popular Colorado town is also known as Colorado’s Wine County as it is home to many wineries.

From exploring historic downtown to wine tasting and hiking nearby trails, you will find plenty of things to do in Grand Junction.

Discover Grand Junction’s historic downtown district which is filled with varieties of mixed art galleries, sculptures, local boutiques, restaurants, and breweries.

Next, visit the Colorado National Monument, where you just may think that you’ve been transporated to the rocky landscape of southern Utah.

Located just a short drive from downtown, these natural stunning landscapes of red rock formations will leave you awestruck.

Grand Junction is also a great place for wine lovers. If you visit this place in summer or spring, don’t miss a wine tasting tour. Enjoy the views of the vineyards while sipping on some of the best quality wines.

Where to Stay in Grand Junction

• Castle Creek Manor: A lovely B&B with a friendly homely vibe and mountain views. Some rooms have balconies, perfect for taking in the fresh air.
• Grand River Inn: With spacious rooms and rustic decor this is a lovely choice for Grand Junction

From Krystianna of Delightfully Denver

One of the most underrated places to visit in Colorado is the town of Golden!

This town has deep-rooted wild west vibes and is home to some amazing attractions that you won’t want to miss when visiting this state. Plus,  one day in Golden  is all you need.

Even though Denver is home to Coors Field, Golden is actually where Coors Brewery is located.

The brewery hosts tours for the public, and you can even catch a shuttle bus from downtown Golden to easily get there if you’re traveling without a car.

Golden is also one of the best towns near Denver for hiking. There are a few mountains to hike here, including Lookout Mountain and Table Mountain, and both are equally great.

Downtown Golden is lovely too. There’s a huge “Welcome to Golden” sign that gets decorated for the holidays. You can find a bunch of local shops and restaurants throughout downtown Golden like Woody’s Wood Fired Pizza.

If you’re wondering where to go in Colorado and want to visit a small western town, Golden is the perfect place!

Where to Stay in Golden

• Table Mountain Inn: With mountain views and rustic decor this is a great place to stay in Golden
• The Silk Pincushion: As expected with such a quirky name this adorable hotel is a charming place to stay in Golden, perfect for a home style welcome.

From Corritta of It’s a Family Thing

One of the best-kept secrets of Colorado is Canon City. I know you may be wondering what makes this one of the best places in Colorado, and that’s the Royal Gorge Bridge.

Only an hour away from Colorado Springs, Canon City is a small town with a big bridge. The Royal Gorge Bridge is the highest suspended bridge in the United States. The bridge is over 900 feet above the Arkansas River.

It is a sight to see and even more amazing to walk. Along with walking across the over 1200 footbridge, you can also ride the gondola across the gorge, zipline, or fly on the royal rush sky coaster.

As if that wasn’t enough, you can head down to the gorge and enjoy a train ride along the Arkansas River. You can relax and have dinner while learning more about Canon City.

If you are up for an adventure, you can raft on the Arkansas River. Take of the waters while taking in the beautiful scenic views.

In the spring, you can enjoy the music and blossom festival, which is a celebration of the upcoming cherry and apple crop.

Canon City is the perfect small-town with diners, shops, boutiques, and few traffic lights. Be sure to stop at Julian’s Taco Shop downtown; you won’t regret it.

Where to Stay in Canon City

• Hampton Inn: For good simple accommodation this is a great choice in Canon City. It is also walking distance to Royal Gorge Bridge.

From Dymphe of Dym Abroad

Aurora is one of the best places in Colorado. You find the city to the east of Denver.

There are lots of great things to do and see in the city of Aurora. For example, there are a lot of outdoor activities and there is beautiful nature.

One of the best things to do in Aurora is going to Cherry Creek State Park. This is a beautiful park with lots of places with water. It is the perfect place for a relaxing walk while seeing the Rocky Mountains in the background.

Another great thing about Cherry Greek State Park is that there are many water activities. Besides that, another great thing to do in Aurora is visiting the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum. This is a very interesting museum to visit.

Also, you should go to Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre. This is a very large outdoor amphitheater where many events throughout the year take place.

Where to Stay in Aurora

• Woolley’s Classic Suites : With old-world touches and mountain views this is a great option for your stay in Aurora.

Mount Evans

From Allison of She Dreams of Alpine

If standing on the summit of a 14er is on your Colorado bucket list, don’t miss a trip to Mount Evans.

You can reach the 14,265-foot summit of this mountain in multiple ways, so you get to decide how hard you want to work to get to the top.

Mount Evans is located about 60 miles west of Denver, along Mount Evans Scenic Byway (aka Highway 5), which is the highest paved road in the whole country.

You can actually drive it straight to the top with only a short stroll to the true summit from the parking lot.

For the extra bragging rights and experience of hiking a 14er , pull off earlier on the road and park at Summit Lake trailhead.

From there, hike approximately 4.5 miles round trip (with 2300 feet of elevation gain) to get to the summit of Mount Evans.

If you prefer pedal power, you can bike to the summit as well.

Be aware that the road to the trailhead and summit is closed in winter, so plan to visit Mount Evans in spring, summer, or fall.

Where to Stay in Mount Evans

• The Ranahan: These aparthotel suites are perfect for your stay in nearby Breckenridge. Each room has its own kitchenette but the hotel also has great on site facilities including a fabulous bar and outside fire pit area.

From Jesal of Tourist to Travellers

Grand Lake Colorado, the largest natural lake in Colorado is a picturesque sight with snow-capped mountains and a breathtaking backdrop of the wild Rocky Mountains, and it ranks among the best Colorado vacation spots!

At 8300 feet above sea level, the scenery is unmatched and the sprawling greenery is soothing to one’s eyes.

It’s also an ideal basecamp for the adventure seeker.

While visiting Grand Lake, be sure to take a scenic walk along the lakeshore, relax on the beach, take a few hikes to enjoy the scenery, and keep an eye out for wildlife.

You could hire a cozy cabin in the woods and spend some time with your loved ones.

If you’re visiting this beautiful place in Colorado during winter, consider trying out skiing or snowboarding during your trip.

Where to Stay in Grand Lake

• Grand Lake Townhome : This fully equipped self-catered holiday home is great for small groups or a couple if you want plenty of space! There is a wonderful deck with great views, it is even known to spot Moose right in front.
• Grand Lake Lodge: For catered options with the same cabin feel is this lodge right in Rocky Mountain National Park. There is also a hot tub and pool available to use.

Willow Lakes

From Meg of Fox in the Forest

Willow Lakes in Colorado brings the drama of the Colorado Gore Range to life.

If you’re up for a challenging hike that makes up for every drop of sweat with fantastic scenery, this is definitely one of the best places in Colorado to please your adventurous soul!

Known for its rugged trails, fantastic mountain views, and jaw-dropping views of alpine lakes (one which is backdropped by an impressive series of gendarmes, the Zodiac Spires), Willow Lakes will greet you every step of the way with yet another wonderful view (usually better than the last!).

Another highlight? The entire trail is lined with flowers, which makes it one of the best  wildflower hikes in Colorado !

One of the coolest things to do at Willow Lakes (aside from dropping your jaw to the ground at the scenery) is camping in one of the most beautiful places to visit in Colorado.

Where to Stay in Willow Lakes

There are several campsites along the last mile of the trail. Few things in life are as amazing as spending a night under the stars here!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

5 thoughts on “Colorado Bucket List: 25 Cool Places to Visit in Colorado”

There is a flaw in this article, Grand Lake is a very nice small mountain town. And yes there is a lake called Grand Lake, but the big lake is called Lake Granby.

Not a flaw. Lake Granby is man-made. The article states that Grand Lake is the largest natural lake in CO, which is in fact, true.

I can’t believe Ouray wasn’t on the list.

Tourist from back east has visited Ouray several times. Great area to visit, hike and view mountains. Definitely an oversite! Friendly. Great camping nearby Norman and Linda

This brings back memories. Thank you so much.

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Atlas & Boots

The UK's most popular outdoor travel blog

30 most beautiful mountains in the world

The most beautiful mountains in the world have captivated climbers for centuries. Here, we examine their lethal appeal

“You are not in the mountains. The mountains are in you,” said John Muir, the renowned naturalist, author and environmental philosopher.

If our resident seven-summit hopeful is anything to go by, Muir makes a valid point. Those who spend time in the mountains seem to be driven by a deeper force.

These brave men and women will face vertiginous vertical falls, sub-zero temperatures and 8,000m death zones in pursuit of their summit dreams. It’s in ode to them that we present this list.

Most beautiful mountains in the world

In no particular order, these are the most beautiful mountains in the world.

1. Cuernos del Paine

Height: 2,600m (8,530ft) Location: Andes, Chile

Los Cuernos del Paine or ‘Paine horns’ refer to a set of sharp granite peaks in Torres del Paine National Park, all of which rise above 2,000m.

The spiky peaks have delightfully fitting names – among them Aleta de Tiburón (Shark’s Fin), La Espada (The Sword) and La Hoja (The Blade) – and are located halfway along the W trek, one of the best hiking trails in Torres del Paine .

2. Mount Thor

Height: 1,675m (5,495ft) Location: Baffin Mountains, Canada

Mount Thor, appropriately named after the Norse god of thunder, is arguably the scariest mountain on the planet. The hulking mass of solid granite is simply extraordinary. Located on Canada’s remote Baffin Island, Thor is home to the world’s greatest vertical drop. It would take a terrifying 36 seconds for a 170lb (77kg) person to fall the 1,250m (4,101ft) from the cliff face below the summit all the way to the floor.

Because of this remarkable geographical feature, Thor became a popular site for BASE jumpers and paragliders. However, Auyuittuq National Park authorities have banned the practice due to the difficulties involved in getting rescue teams to the site and will prosecute and fine those who flout the rule.

3. Alpamayo

Height: 5,947m (19,511ft) Location: Cordillera Blanca, Peru

Often referred to as the most beautiful mountain in the world, Alpamayo lies in the heart of Peru’s Cordillera Blanca. With a steep pyramidal shape and Viennetta flutes that look practically edible, Alpamayo remains a highly coveted summit.

4. Matterhorn

Height: 4,478m (14,694ft) Location: Pennine Alps, Italy and Switzerland

The Matterhorn is clearly one of the most beautiful mountains in the world. Often credited with the birth of Alpinism in the mid-19th century, the iconic pyramidal peak is successfully summited by thousands of climbers every year with up to 150 attempting an ascent every day during peak season.

5. Ama Dablam

Height: 6,812m (22,349ft) Location: Himalayas, Nepal

Everyone who has made the journey to Mount Everest, Earth’s highest peak, will have passed Ama Dablam, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful mountains in the world. Situated in the heart of Everest’s Khumbu Region, it looms directly above Thyangboche Monastery along the Everest Base Camp Trek .

Ama Dablam is so picturesque, that Google used it as the background of an early version of Gmail while Apple used it as a wallpaper in iOS 7 – high praise in modern times.

• Read: Everest base camp trek: to the heart of the high Himalayas

6. Half Dome

Height: 2,694m (8,838ft) Location: Sierra Nevada, California, USA

Half Dome, towering above Yosemite Valley in Yosemite National Park, is one of the world’s best big wall climbs . The first technical ascent was in 1957 via a route known today as the Regular Northwest Face. The ascent – which took five days – was the first Grade VI climb in the US.

Today, the route has been free-soloed in a mere few hours. The fastest ascent was completed in 1hr 22m by Alex Honnold in May 2012.

• Read: 20 most beautiful mountains in the US

7. Ulvetanna Peak

Height: 2,930m (9,612ft) Location: Queen Maud Land, Antarctica

Ulvetanna in Antarctica is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful mountains in the world. Tolkienesque in appearance, it rises crown-like above a landscape of white.

Ulvetanna, which means ‘the wolf’s tooth’ in Norwegian, was first climbed in 1994. Its northeast ridge was conquered almost two decades later by British climber Leo Houlding and his team.

8. Mount Asgard

Height: 2,015m (6,610ft) Location: Baffin Mountains, Canada

The twin peaks of Mt Asgard seem to have emerged from a fictional realm. Fittingly, they have been used for several fantastical feats. In 1976, stuntman Rick Sylvester skied off the mountain with a Union Jack parachute for the opening sequence of the James Bond film The Spy Who Loved Me .

In 2009, Leo Houlding and his team made a bid for the first free ascent of the north face, a story told in the award-winning film The Asgard Project . Houlding later BASE jumped off the summit – an illegal feat for which he was fined.

9. Laila Peak

Height: 6,096m (20,000ft) Location: Karakoram, Pakistan

Laila Peak with its needlepoint summit vies with Ama Dablam for the title of the most beautiful mountain in Asia. The first ascent (made without permits and therefore unofficial) was by a four-man British team including Simon Yates who climbed the peak in 1987.

It was Yates’ first big climb since the dramatic events on Siula Grande depicted in Joe Simpson’s Touching the Void .

Peter was fortunate enough to pass Laila Peak during his K2 base camp trek .

Height: 2,010m (6,594ft) Location: Kujalleq, Greenland

The vast west face of Ketil is another of the world’s biggest near-vertical walls. Located near the southern tip of Greenland , the peak is becoming increasingly popular among the world’s big wall climbers.

Ketil rises above the valley of Klosterdalen which, on the face of it, seems idyllic but is actually a mixture of boot-sucking marshland and thick birch woodland – though climbers are likely to have other worries while bivvying on the wall.

11. Huayna Picchu

Height: 2,693m (8,835ft) Location: Andes, Peru

The iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu wouldn’t be half as beautiful without Huayna Picchu looming above it. For many trekkers, climbing this picturesque peak is the highlight of their visit. The views of the citadel – one of the New Seven Wonders of the World – are extraordinary from the summit and well worth the extra effort.

Height: 6,190m (20,308ft) Location: Alaska Range, Alaska, USA

Denali (previously Mount McKinley) in Alaska is the highest peak in North America and arguably the most difficult mountain of the seven summits after Everest. It is particularly tough as climbers need to carry heavy loads or pull them on sledges. The notoriously stormy and unpredictable weather on the mountain only makes matters worse.

Denali’s stunning appearance makes it just a little bit easier to understand why it invariably attracts climbers to its slopes. Peter is currently training for an attempt on Denali in 2024. Watch this space…

13. Cerro Torre

Height: 3,128m (10,262ft) Location: Andes, Chile/Argentina (disputed)

Cerro Torre is a sheer and sharp pinnacle jutting vertically from the Patagonian Ice Field, fortified with a perilous layer of rime ice and buffeting winds. It is both undeniably beautiful and deeply lethal.

In 1959, Italian climber Cesare Maestri claimed he had successfully climbed the mountain. However, his partner Toni Egger had fallen to his death along with the camera that proved their ascent successful. When every subsequent expedition to Cerro Torre in the following years failed – bringing further death – doubts about Maestri’s summit emerged. He, however, has doggedly maintained his version of events.

14. Machapuchare

Height: 6,993m (22,942ft) Location: Himalayas, Nepal

Majestic Machapuchare is a sacred peak in the Hindu religion, associated with the god Shiva. In 1957, British climber Wilfrid Noyce set out to climb the mountain, but the king of Nepal asked him to respect Hindu religious customs and not set foot on the summit. Noyce and his climbing companion, A.D.M. Cox, turned back 45m (148ft) short of the summit.

It’s said that no human has ever set foot on it, but it seems to be an open secret that New Zealand climber Bill Denz did so illegally in the early 1980s. Denz was killed in an avalanche on Manaslu in 1983 and the truth died with him.

15. Tre Cime di Lavaredo

Height: 2,999m (9,839ft) Location: Dolomites, Italy

The distinctive peaks known as the Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Three Peaks of Lavaredo) depict Italy’s Dolomites at their iconic best.

The peaks made the news in 2018 when the BBC erroneously used them in a documentary about yak herders in the Himalayas. A viewer spotted the error and informed the broadcaster who apologised and later edited out the footage.

16. Polar Sun Spire

Height: 1,438m (4,717ft) Location: Baffin Island, Canada

The Polar Sun Spire is notable for its stunning 1,300m north face. The team behind the first ascent spent a full month on the mountain and summited after 36 consecutive nights in a portaledge.

The peak has been called ‘the mother of all headwalls’ and reputedly features an even larger uninterrupted cliff face than Mt Thor though this has not been officially confirmed.

17. Fitz Roy

Height: 3,405m (11,171ft) Location: Andes, Argentina and Chile

The Fitz Roy range with its imposing peaks and shark-tooth summits has beguiled some of the best climbers in the world.

In 2014, Tommy Caldwell (of The Dawn Wall fame) and Alex Honnold (of Free Solo fame) completed the first ascent of the ‘Fitz Traverse’, climbing across the ridge line of Cerro Fitz Roy (Mount Fitz Roy) and its satellite peaks. The route is 5km long and includes around 4,000m of vertical elevation.

For the rest of us mere mortals, there is an outstanding but challenging day hike from the Argentine village of El Chaltén , named after Fitz Roy’s indigenous name, meaning ‘smoking mountain’, presumably because it’s often shrouded in cloud.

• Read: Fitz Roy day hike: an essential guide

18. Huangshan

Height: 1,864m (6,115ft) Location: Huangshan, China

The Huangshan mountain range in southern Anhui province is one of the most iconic images of China . The towering granite peaks shrouded in wisps of mist are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China’s most popular tourist destinations.

The range has inspired scores of poets, painters and filmmakers, among them James Cameron who took inspiration from Huangshan in designing the fictional Shangri-la of Pandora in his blockbuster film Avatar .

19. Mount Roraima

Height: 2,810m (9,219ft) Location: Guiana Highlands, Venezuela

Another mountain immortalised in film, Roraima is said to have inspired scenes in Pixar’s Up . This hulking slab has a summit of 31km 2 and serves as a tripoint for Brazil , Guyana and Venezuela .

Unexplored until 1884, Roraima has occupied botanists ever since with its diverse range of flora. Needless to say, it is one of the most beautiful mountains in the world.

20. Mount Fuji

Height: 3,776m (12,388ft) Location: Honshu Island, Japan

According to the Japanese proverb, ‘he who climbs Mount Fuji once is a wise man, he who climbs it twice is a fool’. This is not without merit for the climb itself offers little of Fuji’s beauty as seen from afar. On the mountain itself, one will find a barren landscape trod by 300,000 people a year.

From a distance, however, Japan’s most famous mountain harbours an arresting equanimity that secures its place on this list of the most beautiful mountains in the world.

21. Mount Assiniboine

Height: 3,618m (11,870ft) Location: Canadian Rockies, Canada

Mount Assiniboine is a pyramidal peak, often referred to as Canada’s Matterhorn. Located on the Great Divide on the British Columbia-Alberta border, the mountain was named in 1885 by Canadian Surveyor George M. Dawson.

On spotting the mountain, Dawson saw a trail of clouds rising from the top, which reminded him of the plumes of smoke emanating from the teepees of Assiniboine Indians.

22. Mount Kilimanjaro

Height: 5,895m (19,340ft) Location: Eastern Rift Mountains, Tanzania

Kilimanjaro is the world’s highest freestanding mountain, meaning it is not attached to a mountain range. As it is the highest peak in Africa and was once a volcano, Kilimanjao is a member of both the seven summits and the seven volcanic summits .

The ‘Roof of Africa’ boasts myriad landscapes and climatic zones, each with its own distinct flora and fauna. Ascents begin in dense rainforest, followed by a more scrubland setting with low brush. At around 4,000m, this gives way to a rocky, almost lunar-like landscape before finally, on summit day, a fine glacial scree.

• Read: Training for Kilimanjaro: 7 tips for a successful summit

23. Mount Whitney

Height: 4,421m (14,504ft) Location: Sierra Nevada, California, USA

Mount Whitney is the highest summit in the contiguous United States (i.e. excluding Hawaii and Alaska). It looks intimidating on first view but the popular Mount Whitney Trail starts at an elevation of 2,550m, meaning the summit can be reached in a day or two.

24. Stetind

Height: 1,392m (4,566ft) Location: Nordland, Norway

In 2002, Stetind was unofficially selected as Norway’s national mountain. Author and mountaineer Peter Wessel Zappfe described its smooth, steep shape as “an anvil whereupon the Gods can hammer”.

Meanwhile, British mountaineer William C. Slingsby called it the ugliest mountain he ever saw – but we beg to differ. Slingsby failed to achieve the summit which may explain his gloomy view.

25. Aiguille du Dru

Height: 3,754m (12,316ft) Location: The Alps, France

Aiguilles du Dru in the Mont Blanc mountain range is striking for its jutting peak, aptly named ‘aiguille’ which translates as ‘needle’. The peak of granite rock stands at 3,754m and is coupled with a lower peak at 3,733m: Petit Dru which offers one of the world’s most stunning big wall climbs.

26. Trango Towers

Height: 6,286m (20,623ft) Location: Karakoram, Pakistan

The Trango Towers in northern Pakistan offer some of the world’s most difficult big wall climbing due to a combination of altitude, height and steepness. Here you’ll find some of the most colossal cliffs on Earth. In fact, the east face of Great Trango Tower is the world’s greatest ‘nearly vertical’ drop at 1,340m.

27. Tsaranoro Be

Height: 1,910m (6,266ft) Location: Tsaranoro, Madagascar

Madagascar may be famous for its wildlife, but it has more to offer than lemurs. Dubbed Africa’s Yosemite, the Tsaranoro Massif features orange-streaked granite walls that have drawn climbers since the late 90s. The majority of the walls can be tackled in a day, but the Tough Enough route is considered one of the hardest multi-pitch routes in the world.

Height: 863m (2,831ft) Location: Northern Territory, Australia

The huge rock formation in central Australia is actually an inselberg, which literally means ‘island mountain’ and refers to isolated rock hills, ridges or small mountains that rise abruptly from more level surroundings.

From 1873, this particular inselberg was widely known as Ayers Rock, a name coined by European explorer William Gosse. However, the local Aboriginal people had called it Uluru for centuries. In 1993, a dual naming policy was adopted and it was renamed Ayers Rock/Uluru, before being changed in 2002 to Uluru/Ayers Rock.

Height: 3,970m (13,024ft) Location: Bernese Alps, Switzerland

The arresting Eiger is deceptive in its beauty. As well as one of the most beautiful mountains in the world, it is also one of the most dangerous . Its north face is possibly the most notorious in history.

The combination of extreme weather, risk of avalanche, rock fall, technical climbing and freezing temperatures inspired the nickname Mordwand (‘Murder Wall’ in German). In recent years, the Eiger’s menacing reputation has somewhat dissipated, but the legend of the Mordwand endures.

30. Table Mountain

Height: 1,085m (3,559ft) Location: Cape Town, South Africa

Table Mountain is said to be one of the oldest in the world. Its formation began circa 280 million years ago and some of its rocks date back 600 million years (long before the Himalayas).

Standing at 1,085m, it’s not the mountain’s height but its breadth that’s most impressive. The stark, scarred northern face hulks across the skyline, topped by a vast plateau that stretches for three kilometres.

Honorary mention: Kirkjufell

Height: 463m (1,519ft) Location: Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Iceland

Although technically a hill, we’ve given iconic Kirkjufell (Church Mountain) near the town of Grundarfjörður in western Iceland an honorary mention on this list. It is thought to be the most photographed mountain in Iceland, has appeared in Game of Thrones and seems to feature on the Instagram feed of every visitor to Iceland.

Just metres from its slopes are the roaring waterfalls of Kirkjufellsfoss – another Insta hotspot – and with the northern lights hovering overhead during the winter months, you have a formula for the world’s most beautiful hill.

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Lead image: Daniel Prudek/Shutterstock

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• 20 Best Mountains Of The World Which Every Travel Enthusiast Must Visit In 2024

The dynamic landscapes and thriving flora and fauna are major factors in defining the popularity of all the mountains of the world . For the more adventurous explorers, there are many other mountain ranges like the tallest mountain range, Mount Everest and the longest mountain in the world, Andes, which must be visited for an exhilarating experience of an adrenaline rush. Impressive mountain ranges, worthy of appreciation have spread across different continents, giving adventurers the option to choose from the many countless mountain ranges of the world.

20 Most Beautiful Mountains Of The World

The 20 best mountains of the world like that of Swiss Alps, the Himalayas, the Dolomites, the Grand Teton, Table Mountain, and more, continue to draw travelers from all across the globe throughout the year. And of all these mentioned below, which one would you like to have on your bucket list and explore at the earliest?

• Swiss Alps – The Magical Mountains
• Mount Logan – The Snowy Paradise
• Mount Fuji – The Volcanic Beauty
• Mauna Kea – The Gem Of Pacific Ocean
• Jotunheimen Mountains – The Photographer’s Paradise
• Grand Teton – America’s Adventure Hub
• Bogda Peak – An Epitome Of Magnificence
• Aoraki/Mt. Cook – The Spellbinding Wonder
• Cerro Torre – The Sunkissed Beauty
• Huayna Picchu – The Wondrous Gem
• Kirkjufell – The Nature’s Marvel
• Mount Everest – An Adventurer’s Dream
• Mount Kilimanjaro – The Home Of Nature
• Vinicunca – The Montage Of Happy Colors
• Table Mountain – The Flat Abode
• The Himalayas – A True Heaven On Earth
• Denali Peak  – The Alaskan Beauty
• The Dolomites – The Core Of Italy’s Heart
• Nanga Parbat – The Natural Paradise
• Castle Mountain – The World Of Wonders

1. Swiss Alps – The Magical Mountains

The dramatic peaks of Dammastock and the snow-clad majestic summit of Matterhorn have always amazed and left hikers spellbound with its astonishing beauty. Matterhorn is 10th tallest amongst the several mountains of the world with a distinct feature of a well-defined pyramid shape. It is one of the most active fold mountains of the world and is featured on the world famous Toblerone Chocolate as its logo. The slopes of the Switzerland mountains are famous for the skiing and snowboarding activities. This is amongst the famous mountains in the world.

Location: Switzerland Height:  Dufourspitze (4,634 m), the Dom (4,545 m), the Liskamm (4,527 m), the Weisshorn (4,506 m) and the Matterhorn (4,478 m)

Must Read: 12 Incredible Places To Visit In USA In Summer For A Magical Journey

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2. Mount Logan – The Snowy Paradise

Mount Logan is the tallest mountain in Canada, second highest summit in North America and has the largest circumference of the base when compared to the several mountain ranges of the world map. It is a part of Kluane National Park and Reserve. Hikers here can have an adventurous experiences of mountaineering in Canada while being surrounded by dense forests, iced rivers, picturesque landscapes, wild animals and several species of birds. Due to the tectonic action in this area, Mount Logan is continuing to grow in height even today. This is amongst the most famous mountains .

Location: Canada Height:  5,959 m

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3. Mount Fuji – The Volcanic Beauty

Mount Fuji is nearly 12,400 ft tall and is Japan’s No.1 tourist attraction. The breathtaking views here never fail to impress anybody who comes here. This is one of the most massive volcanic mountains in the world, which is active even now and majestically sits over a junction of three tectonic plates. Japan in July and August see the most amount of hikers attempting to climb this volcanic mountain and most of them make it to the summit successfully.

Location: Japan Heights:  3,776 m

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4. Mauna Kea – The Gem Of Pacific Ocean

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Mt Everest is known to be the tallest mountain in the world, but if you consider the height of Mauna Kea which is hidden under the Pacific Ocean, then Mauna Kea would be the tallest peak of the world. It is an 8-hour tour to this place with a few stops in between for acclimatization. The top of this volcanic wonder houses the world’s leading astronomical observatories. During the nights the perfectly clear skies offer an amazing stargazing experience. This is one of the famous mountains around the globe.

Location: United States Of America Heights: 4,207 m

Suggested Read: 8 Magnificent Hill Stations In Switzerland You Ought To Explore Before You Die

5. Jotunheimen Mountains – The Photographer’s Paradise

This is one of the major mountain ranges of the world. One can witness these beautiful Jotunheimen Mountains when on the Sognefjellet National Tourist Route. The best way to witness the beauty of this place is through a drive along Europe’s highest mountain pass. This area offers splendid views of the scenic beauty which are highly worthy of being photographed. During the drive, one can witness the magnificent view comprising of snow-capped mountain peaks, waterfalls with crystal clear water and lush greenery.

Location: Norway Heights:  Galdhøpiggen (2469 m)

Suggested Read: Visit These Most Dangerous Places In The World That Are Not For The Faint-Hearted

6. Grand Teton – America’s Adventure Hub

Grand Teton is a famous national park in the United States of America with more than 60 species of mammals. The breathtaking scenery offered here leaves every traveller awe-struck and in love with the grand mountain peaks making it one of the most famous mountains in the world. There are many fun-filled exciting activities offered in this area like camping, hiking, trekking, water sports etc. The historical cowboy culture of this area must be experienced by one and all.

Location: United States of America Heights:  4,199 m

Suggested Read: Best Hill Stations Near Singapore To Escape The Metropolitan’s Maddening Crowd

7. Bogda Peak – An Epitome Of Magnificence

Also known as the Bogda Mountain, it is an 18000 ft tall magnificent beauty. This mountain is very difficult to climb as its slopes are very steep which is a major obstacle, but in spite of these limitations, many mountain climbers have successfully climbed this mountain range on numerous occasions. This mountain peak is much closer to the civilization and is more challenging to climb, therefore it gets more attention from the travellers when compared to the other mountain peaks of the region.

Location: China Heights:  5,445 m

Suggested Read: The Caucasus Mountains: A Detailed Guide To Help You Plan Your Trip

8. Aoraki/Mt. Cook – The Spellbinding Wonder

It is a part of the popular Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park and stands magnificently adorned with snow-capped peaks. Many mountain climbing enthusiasts come here from all over the world with an intention of climbing the three snow-covered summits of this range. Even hikers come from every nook and corner to experience the splendid view offered on the hiking trails and to witness the longest glacier in the country which is Tasman Glacier. It is undoubtedly one of the world’s greatest mountains.

Location: New Zealand Heights:  3,724 m

Suggested Read: 60 Best Hill Stations In India That You Must Explore At Least Once In Your Life!

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9. Cerro Torre – The Sunkissed Beauty

This is the most controversial mountain range amongst all the mountains of the world as there have been many disputes between Argentina and Chile as to who owns it and there have been complications in deciding who was the first person to climb Cerro Torre. It is counted among the most difficult mountains to climb as it has a very steep surface. It is a rocky steep mountain standing 10,000 ft tall with a bulb like snow cap at the top.

Location: Argentina/Chile Heights:  3,128 m

Suggested Read:  28 Places To Visit In October In World

10. Huayna Picchu – The Wondrous Gem

This is one of the smallest mountains in the world but is very famous among the tourists and travelers because of the amazing view offered by the mountain of Machu Picchu which is one of the greatest ancient archaeological sites of the world. Huayna Picchu is a treasured heritage site of UNESCO. Machu Picchu is one of the seven wonders of the world and the splendid sky view of this famous site can be seen by climbing Huayna Picchu.

Location: Peru Heights:  2,720 m

Suggested Read: 10 Highest Mountain Peaks To Conquer In The Alps Mountains

11. Kirkjufell – The Nature’s Marvel

Kirkjufell gained its popularity and got listed under the famous names of mountains after being featured in the 6th and 7th season of HBO original series Game Of Thrones. This small mountain peak looks beautiful covered fully in lush greenery during the summers and with pure white ice and snow during the winters. The well-known waterfall, Kirkjufellsfoss which is the most magnificent waterfalls of Iceland is also located in the backdrop of this splendid summit.

Location: Iceland Heights:  463 m

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12. Mount Everest – An Adventurer’s Dream

This is easily the tallest mountain range at a maximum height of 29029 ft above sea level. This highest mountain in the world offers amazing views and challenging climbing routes making it perfect for adventure seekers. Many travelers have tried to climb this rugged grand beauty but only a few of them have been successful in doing so. Mountaineers have constantly faced many serious life-threatening conditions here, but it still remains the most attempted mountain peak by almost all experienced and amateur mountaineers.

Location: Nepal/Tibet Heights:  8,849 m

Suggested Read: 5 Glorious Mountain Railways Of India One Must Travel With

13. Mount Kilimanjaro – The Home Of Nature

It is one of the famed Seven Summits of Africa. It is considered to be one of the highest mountain ranges in the world and also one of the most important mountains of the world. It is topped with several glaciers and a diminishing ice field. The hiking tour to this place is quite expensive and can be afforded only by few. Western white and black colobuses, blue monkeys, elephants, cape buffaloes, and leopards can be found in the forests of Kilimanjaro National Park.

Location: Tanzania Heights:  5,895 m

Suggested Read: 10 Best Hill Stations In Nepal: Beauty In The Lap Of Nature

14. Vinicunca – The Montage Of Happy Colors

Vinicunca is the most colorful and one of the most beautiful mountains of the world and is famously known as the Rainbow Mountain. It has unusual hue lines of different colors which have been created due to the mineral deposits. This dynamic shape of the mountain was a result of the volcanic activity. It is counted among the most sacred mountains of the world. The hike route offers several opportunities to witness the hot springs, wildlife, and the close view of the sandstone mountain.

Location: Peru Heights:  5,200 m

Suggested Read: Head To The Switzerland Mountains For A Dreamy Alpine Vacation In Europe

15. Table Mountain – The Flat Abode

This is a unique mountain and its surface on top is literally flat. It is the smallest mountain in the list of mountains in the world at a height of just 3,600 ft. It forms the backdrop of the wonderful Cape Town city in Africa and is a popular landmark of the area. One can reach the top of the mountain by either hiking to the top or by using a cable car ride.

Location: South Africa Heights:  1086 m

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16. The Himalayas – A True Heaven On Earth

Literally translating into the abode of snow, the Himalayas are reckoned across the globe as one of the most beautiful mountains in the world . Stretching for a length of about 2500 kilometers, the Himalayan Ranges indeed offer a sight to behold for a lifetime. A must-include destination on the list of the enthusiasts who would love to experience mountaineering in Himalayas, these mountains are an epitome of magnificence.

Location: India Heights:  Varies

Suggested Read: Explore The Himalayas: 48 Best Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh

17. Denali Peak – The Alaskan Beauty

Formerly known as Mount McKinley, Denali peak is considered to be one of the best mountains in the world , and is also much famed for being the highest mountain in North America. Set at the core of the vast Denali national park, the Denali peak stands tall at an altitude of about 20,310 feet which makes it one of the isolated mountains in the world too. Serving as a great escape for your inner adventurer, get to witness nature’s magic on your next visit to this Alaskan beauty!

Location: Alaska Heights:  6,190 m

Suggested Read: Alaska Travel Guide: All You Need To Know For Planning Your Dream Vacation!

18. The Dolomites – The Core Of Italy’s Heart

Picturing the lush greens against the most soothing blues which almost feels like a fairyland that we usually dream about? Well the Dolomites possess the capabilities of making those dreams come true for you. Renowned to be one of the most beautiful mountains in the world , hiking in Italy is never going to be a complete experience for anyone who loves adventure without exploring the gem of the Southern Limestone Alps.

Location: Italy Heights:  3,343 m

Suggested Read: Top 12 National Parks In Italy To See The Country’s Serene Beauty

19. Nanga Parbat – The Natural Paradise

Running out of reasons to visit Pakistan? Well here’s one that the travel bug in you won’t let you cancel your plans ever. Being one of the best mountains in the world and forming one extreme of the Himalayan Ranges, Nanga Parbat in all its might, has the powers of casting a magical spell on the travelers at first sight. Literally translating into the naked mountain and also known as Diamir – the King of the mountains amidst the locals, Nanga Parbat stands tall at a height of about 26,660 feet in the heart of Pakistan. And if fairy meadows have been on your mind, this might be the place where you can find them!

Location: Pakistan Heights:  8,126 m

Suggested Read: How India And Pakistan Are Not So Different From Each Other

20. Castle Mountain – The World Of Wonders

A gem in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, the Castle Mountain is indeed one of the best mountains in the world which is located in the premises of the famous Banff National Park. Painting the sky with gorgeous colors, it is here that one can experience heaven on Earth for real. Being synonymous with surreal views, and diverse landscapes, mountaineering in Canada is incomplete without trekking atop the Castle Mountain that happens to be a favorite escape for the locals as well as travelers. Set on the eastern side of the Trans-Canada Highway, make sure you hike up to the Castle Mountain via the Eisenhower Tower route. It happens to be the easiest, and offers great ops for photography too!

Location: Canada Heights:  2,766 m

Further Read: Nandi Hills: The Hidden Gem In The South That Proves Not All The Best Places Are On The Map

One must make it a point to visit at least one of these mountains of the world for an exhilarating and fun-filled adventurous experience. Plan your trip with TravelTriangle and we’ll guide you through your hiking trips to any of these magnificent mountains ranges.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist, or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Mountains Of The World

How many mountains are there in the world?

There are a total of 1,000,809 mountains in the world asper the last recorded data. While the United States has 73,389 named mountains, Italy has 28,214 and Switzerland has about 9,944 mountains.

What are the 4 major mountain ranges in the world?

There are plenty of mountain ranges on Earth, but the most important ones are the Himalayas, Andes, the Karakoram range, the Rockies, the Antarctic Mountains, and the Alps mountains in Europe. out of these, the Himalayas are known to be the tallest mountain ranges, while the Andes are the longest.

Which country has the tallest mountains?

Nepal and Bhutan have the highest recorded average elevations in the world. In simple terms, Nepal and Bhutan have the tallest mountains in the world, owing to the massive Himalayan range spread across these countries. The Himalayan ranges are also a great spot for hiking and trekking in India. This is followed by Tajikistan (10,455 feet), Kyrgyzstan (9,805 feet), Antarctica (7,545 feet), Lesotho (7,090 feet), Andorra (6,550 feet), Afghanistan (6,180 feet), Chile (6,140 feet), and China (6,035 feet).

What is the world's most famous mountain?

While Mount Everest happens to be the most famous mountain in the world owing to the fact that it is the tallest, there are various other mountains sharing a piece of fame for some or the other reason. Some of these include the K2 on the China–Pakistan border, Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa, Mount Fuji in Japan, Aoraki/Mount Cook in Mount Cook, Denali/Mount McKinley in Alaska, Annapurna in Nepal, and Mount Olympus in Greece.

Which is the most beautiful mountain in the world?

There are several beautiful mountains in the world, and it is unfair to single out just one. Some of the most beautiful mountains in the world include the Ama Dablam in Eastern Nepal, Table Mountain in Cape Town, Mount Assiniboine in British Columbia, Eiger Mountain in Switzerland, Tre Cime di Lavaredo in Italy, Mount Fuji in Japan, Cerro Torre in Chile, Denali in Alaska.

What mountain is in 3 countries?

The Himalayas span across the five countries of India, Bhutan, Nepal, Pakistan and China. Other than this, the Andes span across all of the western coast of South America as well as various countries.

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The 12 Best Places to Visit in Colorado

Y ou could spend decades-as I have-exploring Colorado's stunning scenery and top attractions and still have more to see and do. No single trip can cover everything that makes the state a traveler's dream destination. AFAR's roundup of things to see and do in Colorado offered 16 tips to get you started, including driving the peak-to-peak scenic byway, visiting Denver Art Museum, and soaking in Iron Mountain Hot Springs. However, if you want to hit the highlights, here are your main targets, divided up by season.

The best places to visit in Colorado in fall

Colorado is spectacular year-round, but autumn's colors and temperatures make it a particularly magical time to visit.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Visiting the dunes typically means overnighting at the park's campground , because few accommodations exist near this remote spot some 230 miles south of Denver. But campers are rewarded with dusk and dawn's light shows on the sand dunes, which ripple beneath the sawtooth Sangre de Cristo mountains. Summers are scorching, but in fall, sand surfaces remain comfortable all day. Scramble across the dunes, or rent a sandboard to surf the slopes like waves.

Dunton Hot Springs

Dunton is the quintessential Colorado getaway for those who can afford it ($1,400 per night is typical). Guests cozy into hand-built log cabins that combine historic patina with western art and worldly comforts like sustainably made beds and linens. Rates include food and drink that make every meal feel special-think roasted pork with charred leek grits followed by poached rhubarb panna cotta-but the steaming springs are this getaway's raison d'être. Views from the rustic yet luxe bathhouse showcase aspen groves that turn amber in autumn, and one guest cabin (Well House) includes its own spring-fed soaking tub.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Most of this park's 4.3 million annual visitors flock here in summer, so I go in September for fewer traffic backups on Trail Ridge Road (a must-do drive traversing treeless alpine tundra). Fall is also mating season for the park's elk herd, and the possibility of hearing bulls' distinctive bugles adds extra magic to any hike. I always glimpse elk along the Moraine Park Loop, a 5.5-mile circuit that can be shortened to preference.

Best places to visit in Colorado in winter

Snow envelopes much of the state in the winter months, turning urban areas into winter wonderlands and promising world-class outdoor activities.

Meow Wolf Convergence Station

In fall 2023, Denver's fun house of immersive art installations launched Sips (With a Z), a cocktail bar and lounge dedicated to providing "a sanctuary of chill amidst the hubbub of quantum travel." Mirrored walls reflect a mashup of classical sculpture and graffiti art, and vintage furniture provides myriad perches for pondering the installation's experiential art. The bar is only open to Meow Wolf Denver visitors and event guests. While the previous art triggered sight, sound, and touch, the new lounge also titillates our sense of taste.

Sure, it's far from major cities, but I wager that the only winter enclaves with mountain vistas that rival Telluride's are in the Alps. These jagged southwest Colorado slopes offer scenery so jawdropping, I always feel dazzled, regardless of the snow conditions. And several mountaintop eateries showcase the splendor. Perched at 11,966 feet, Alpino Vino ranks as the highest restaurant in North America and serves Italian food and wine specialties within a cozy stone and log cabin. More tableside panoramas (and an award-winning wine list) await at Allred's at 10,551 feet.

Silverthorne

Once little more than a refueling stop for motorists traveling Interstate 70, Exit 205 is now an appealing home base for three nearby Colorado ski resorts (Arapahoe Basin, Keystone, and Breckenridge) and a destination in its own right. Stay at Hotel Indigo , the chain's first mountain property housing an upscale tequila bar and indoor swimming pool. Go snowshoeing or Nordic skiing at Raven Golf Club (free to the public; rent gear at Gore Range Sports) and enjoy après at the Bluebird Market food hall , where weekends find live bands entertaining drinkers at the central bar.

Best places to visit in Colorado in spring

Visitor numbers drop during the spring, but Colorado still puts on a show as flowers bloom and the arts scene wows guests.

Casa Bonita

Coloradoans Trey Parker and Matt Stone (creators of the South Park animated TV series) spent $40 million to renovate this Denver icon of Mexican food and carnivalesque stunts. Summer 2023 kicked off its much-anticipated reopening. Diners (up to 2,100 of them, at capacity) still line up with trays for meals, now designed by James Beard–nominated chef Dana Rodriguez. Cliff diving continues in the waterfall-fed pool, and the multi-level dining room delivers more spectacle than ambiance.

Crowds taper but deals abound during this destination's shoulder season. April and May are when Aspen's celebrated restaurants often offer discounted menus and drink specials, and at these elevations (the Snowmass base village sits at 8,104 feet), snow blankets the slopes well beyond the resorts' mid-April closing date, making for prime ski conditions-and rowdy parties. At Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro , the springtime ritual includes uncorking staggering quantities of champagne on the summit-ringed outdoor deck.

Idyllic weather and blooming cactus make spring my favorite time to visit Colorado's canyon country, and Fruita is the best home base. From here, it's a 15-minute drive to the sculpted red rock sandstone spires of Colorado National Monument and 5 minutes to world-famous mountain bike trails. Fruita's walkable downtown includes the Hot Tomato , delivering Jersey-style pizza that's good as gospel. Live music often enlivens the pedestrian block, and for sips, there are wineries in Palisade, 30 minutes east.

Best places to visit in Colorado in summer

Colorado's hiking and biking trails come into their own during the warmer months while road-tripping offers an easy way to see much of the state-in an EV on many of the scenic byways .

Crested Butte

After 25 years in Colorado, I still gape at the beauty of Crested Butte , because in a state that's chockablock with pretty views, this town tops the list. Sheer peaks rise up beside the streets' grid, where colorful, mining-era Victorians line the sidewalks. No highway noise ruins the mountains' quiet, and only merry sounds emerge from main street bars and eateries. The surrounding trails wind through aspen groves and meadows that are deservedly famous for July's display of wildflowers.

Bachelor Gulch

Come summer, the Bachelor Gulch base area of Beaver Creek ski resort becomes the scene of a daily lawn and pool party that encapsulates what's splendid about Colorado. Views include aspen-covered mountainsides, and adventures on foot or bike follow trails leading into wildflower meadows. Play a round of cornhole on the lawn, then relocate to Wyld 's patio for plates showcasing Colorado-grown produce. Stay at the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch (renovated in 2022) to cool off in its outdoor pool and sip rosé from the surrounding loungers.

Fort Collins

Visit during Colorado State's summer break, and you won't have to elbow your way into this city's esteemed breweries. (Crooked Stave makes some of my favorite sours.) Nationally known New Belgium Brewing organizes the annual Tour de Fat each August, when a parade of 20,000 wildly costumed cyclists pedal the streets. I make the 100-year-old Armstrong Hotel my downtown home base and stroll from its classy-hip rooms to such downtown shops as Scrumpy's Hard Cider Bar, which pours drink made from local homeowners' apple trees.

• #Luxury travel
• #Unusual Moscow
• #Jewish Heritage
• #Russian traditions

Top 10 places for a day trip from Moscow

• #Russian History
• #Special Interest
• #Suburbs of Moscow

Moscow offers tourists many great sights to see, but if you ask locals, they will tell you that Moscow is not all there is to Russia, so it’s worth getting away sometimes. Without exploring further, you miss something of the Russian unique character. If you wonder what to visit near Moscow, we recommend you 10 places where a tourist can go for a refreshing recreation, new impressions, and acquaintance with Russian history and culture.

01 Sergiyev Posad

Sergiyev Posad is one of the most beautiful towns located around Moscow. It’s not only famous for its monastery, the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, but also for the fact that it’s the only town in the Moscow Region that is included in the Golden Ring of Russian cities. Its cities and towns influenced the formation of the Russian Orthodox Church. But the main thing which one should visit Sergiyev Posad is the Lavra for sure. You may spend there all day, walking around and enjoying the sense of its power and strength. You absolutely have to buy some honey cakes as souvenirs for friends and feed Lavra’s pigeons when entering the monastery. Besides, you may visit Sergiyev Posad State History and Art Museum-Reserve, which has quite an impressive collection, take a look at the displays in the National Museum of Toys, and taste truly Russian food in local cafes and restaurants.

You can reach Sergiyev Posad by suburban electric train, by bus, or by car. The electric train departs from the Yaroslavsky rain terminal every thirty minutes, and the trip lasts for an hour and a half. You may take a bus near the ‘VDNKh’ metro station, and you’ll be in Sergiyev Posad in an hour and a half at least and in two hours at most. Your car will take you there in an hour and a half at most, too. You should drive the Yaroslavskoye highway. 

If you want to look at a city that combines hi-tech and historical past, you should absolutely visit Kolomna. It is one of the most famous ancient cities in Russia, a beautiful port on the Oka River. Kolomna has its own Kremlin, which is made of red brick, like the Moscow Kremlin. Inside it, you may find many monasteries and churches, including the one in which Dmitry of the Don, Prince of Moscow, and Grand Prince of Vladimir, had his wedding to the Grand Duchess of Muscovy Eudoxia of Moscow. There is still a reserved residential area which is called Posad, right in the Kremlin territory. The buildings date back to merchants’ times. There are some interesting churches, too. In 2006, the Kolomna Speed Skating Center, known as the Kometa Ice Rink, was opened. Its futuristic look contrast the picturesque views of the ancient Kolomna Kremlin and its beautiful churches.

The best way to reach Kolomna is an electric train that departs from the Kazansky rail terminal. The trip lasts for two and a half, or one hour and forty minutes by the Ryazansky express. You can also choose a bus from the Vykhino metro station (1.4 to 4 hrs due to traffic jams) or a car.

03 Shakhmatovo

Shakhmatovo was a manor of the well-known Russian lyrical poet Alexander Blok. His grandfather Andrey Nikolaevich Beketov bought it, and young Blok used to spend it there every summer. Later, he moved there with his wife Lyubov Mendeleeva, who was the daughter of the famous chemist Dmitri Mendeleev. Blok’s grandfather decided to buy Shakhmatovo because of its picturesque views. They are really very nice, and the better time to visit this place is spring and summer. According to his own project, Blok’s mansion is a wooden house built by the poet but burnt by peasants in 1921. It was rebuilt in 2001, and since that time, it often holds big events and excursions. There is also a stable in Shakhmatovo territory, and everyone interested may ride a horse, or rent a bicycle in the summertime, or ski in wintertime.

Shakhmatovo can be reached by car because other options combine train departs from the Leningradsky rail terminal, then changes to bus till the Tarakanovo manor, then goes by foot, or bus from the Vodny stadion metro station, and then also by foot. Travel time is 1.4 hrs.

04 Zakharovo

It is a manor located in the Odintsovo District of the Moscow Region, where everybody interested may learn more about the greatest Russian poet Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin. In 1804, Zakharova was bought by his grandmother Mariya Alexeevna Gannibal, and young Pushkin was brought here every summer from 1805 through to 1810. He recalled Zakharovo in his poems as well. Now, the house which Pushkin visited as a child doesn’t exist anymore, but it was rebuilt at the beginning of the 20th century on the former basis. Now it is a quiet and nice place with a museum dedicated to the famous poet's childhood, where one may spend a day enjoying the spirit of the time when young Pushkin ran across manor’s paths. From that time, linden park, approach alleys, and pond were saved. Not very far away from Zakharovo, another place connected to Pushkin’s name is located. It’s called Bolshiye Vyazyomy, and there the young Pushkin’s brother Nikolenka was buried after his death at the age of six.

The best way to go there is by train, which departs from the Belorussky rail terminal and goes to Zvenigorod. You should leave at the Zakharovo station. Travel time is an hour and a half.

05 Borodino

Borodino is truly a sacred place for all those who honor the great Russian past. The Borodino Battlefield held the most important fighting during the Patriotic War of 1812. This place was made a museum area in 1839, just after 27 years after the battle. More than two thousand memorable things are stored in the museum, including some monuments of military honor, architectural objects dated back to the 19th and 20th centuries, and fortification facilities. Besides, there is also an exhibition dedicated to the famous novel ‘War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy, who visited Borodino in person and described this battle in his book. Every year, reconstruction events occur in Borodino, which is considered the best for visiting. But if you want to feel the spirit of the battle past, it’s better to visit it in more quiet time.

To go there, you should take a train from the Belorussky rail terminal, leave in Mozhaysk, and then change to the bus. The whole travel time is about 2 hrs.

06 Melikhovo

Melikhovo is considered one of the most important museums dedicated to Anton Pavlovich Chekhov, one of the brightest Russian writers and playwrights. Chekhov had been living in Melikhovo from March 1892 until August 1899 with his parents and close relatives. Melikhovo is where he wrote his plays “Uncle Vanya” and “The Seagull.” He sold this manor before going to the Crimea, and it became vague after the revolution. But in 1939, it was decided to establish a museum based on Chekhov’s place of living. Anton Chekhov’s sister Maria and his nephew initiated the process, and the museum opened its doors in 1941. Now Melikhovo shows the path of Chekhov not only as a writer but as a doctor and public figure as well. Some paintings of famous artists such as Isaac Levitan and Vasily Polenov, who were Chekhov’s friends, are being stored. It’s a nice place to visit to learn more about Chekov’s life and work.

The best way to reach Melikhovo is by bus, which departs from the Yuzhnaya metro station, and goes to Protvino, Obolensk, or Serpukhov, or by the direct 365 bus. Also, you may choose an electric train from the Kursky rail terminal. Travel time is 1,5 hrs.

07 Abramtsevo

This is another manor connected to the lives of important Russian people — not only writers but also artists. Abramtsevo, located close to Sergiev Posad, was a property of Sergey Aksakov, a writer and a Slavophiles, and later of Savva Mamontov, a well-known patron of the arts. Abramtsevo used to be visited by writers Ivan Turgenev and Nikolay Gogol, poet Fyodor Tyutchev, and such artists as Isaac Levitan, Vasily Polenov, and Mikhail Vrubel, and by the great Russian singer Fyodor Shalyapin as well. The exhibition in the museum is dedicated to famous Abramtsevo owners and guests. It was made a museum in 1917, and its first curator was Alexandra Mamontova, Savva Mamontov’s daughter. The main sightseeing view is a wooden building made in the 18th century and saved in Savva Mamontov's form in the 19th century. There are also some bright buildings such as hut pavilion or hut bath-house. You have to remember that the main manor house may be visited only with an excursion group on the weekend.

Electric train to Abramtsevo departs from the Yaroslavsky rail terminal and goes to Sergiyev Posad or Aleksandrov. You may reach Abramtsevo by bus as well. Travel time is an hour and a half.

08 Yasnaya Polyana

Yasnaya Polyana is known as a place of residence of the famous Russian writer Leo Tolstoy. He was born there, wrote his novels ‘War and Peace’ and ‘Anna Karenina,’ died and is buried. He’d been living in this manor for fifty years. Yasnaya Polyana is located in the Tula Region, 200 km from Moscow to the south. This manor consists of many interesting and significant objects. For example, the interior of the main house where Tolstoy lived is being kept like it was in 1910 — it was the last year for the writer. All things in the house are considered to be personal belongings of Tolstoy and his family. Besides the main house, the Yasnaya Polyana ensemble includes the so-called Volkonsky house — the house of Tolstoy’s grandfather, the Kuzminskiye wing, which is a part of the oldest house where Tolstoy was born, now non-existent, the birch alley made by Sofya Andreevna, Leo Tolstoy’s wife, stable, ponds, and favorite Tolstoy’s bench. Leo Tolstoy’s tomb is located close to the ravine's edge — it’s where he wanted to be buried.

The whole travel time to Yasnaya Polyana is about 4 hrs as long as it’s located near Tula. It can be reached by train, or by car. First, you should go to Tula by train from the Kursky rail terminal or by bus from the Tsaritsyno, Domodedovskaya, Prazhskaya, or Ulitsa Akademika Yangelya metro stations, and then change to bus, or by trolley bus for Yasnaya Polyana.

09 Polotnyany Zavod

This place which title can be translated into Russian as ‘linen factory,’ is known for its connection to the Goncharov family, from which Natalia Goncharova, Alexander Pushkin’s wife, originated. The real linen factory was built on the bank of the Sukhodrev River in the Kaluga Region in 1718 by Peter the Great order. Goncharov, Natalia’s great grandfather, was one of the companions who participated in the factory’s development. Every companion built his own manor close to the factory’s building, and even for those times, it was quite an uncommon situation. Polotnyany Zavod was visited by the empress Catherine the Great, the Field Marshal Mikhail Kutuzov, and Nikolay Vasilievich Gogol. In 1999, when everybody celebrated the bicentennial of Alexander Pushkin, Polotnyany Zavod was made a museum, and now it welcomes many guests who come to see dramatized excursions and to learn more about Pushkin times. The poet himself visited this place two times, in 1830 and 1834. Polotnyany Zavod has the most picturesque panoramic view in the Kaluga Region.

To go to Polotnyany Zavod, you should take a bus from the bus station near the Tyoply Stan metro station, and go to Kondorovo. It takes a little more than three hours.

Tarus is just another little town in Kaluga Region, which is considered to be typical Russian. It’s located on the left bank of the Oka River and has really magnificent views. It feels like time stands still there. Tarusa managed to preserve the best from the past, and even now, it consists mostly of one-storeyed houses made of wood or stone. They say it’s because Tarusa residents declined railroad construction. This town became popular among Russian intellectuals at the beginning of the 20th century when famous artist Vasily Polenov discovered it and told about Tarusa to anyone in Moscow and St. Petersburg. Tarusa is known to be a hometown for Russian writer Marina Tsvetaeva, whose family spent summertime there. Tsvetaeva museum is a museum every guest of Tarusa should visit for sure. Besides, Konstantin Paustovsky, another famous Russian writer, lived there till his death and was buried in Tarusa. The absolutely must-do in Tarusa is to walk along the embankment of the Oka River.

The best way to reach Tarusa is by direct bus which departs from the bus station near the ‘Tyoply Stan’ metro station. Travel time is about two hours.

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• 1. Sergiyev Posad
• 3. Shakhmatovo
• 4. Zakharovo
• 5. Borodino
• 6. Melikhovo
• 7. Abramtsevo
• 8. Yasnaya Polyana
• 9. Polotnyany Zavod

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17 Top Tourist Attractions in Moscow

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on November 3, 2023

The capital of Russia is an incredible place to explore. Visitors to Moscow come away spellbound at all the amazing sights, impressed at the sheer size and grandeur of the city. Lying at the heart of Moscow, the Red Square and the Kremlin are just two of the must-see tourist attractions; they are the historical, political and spiritual heart of the city – and indeed Russia itself.

A fascinating city to wander around, stunning cathedrals, churches, and palaces lie side-by-side with bleak grey monuments and remains from the Soviet state. In addition to its plethora of historical and cultural tourist attractions, Moscow is home to world-class museums, theaters and art galleries.

Renowned for its performing arts, fantastic ballets and amazing circus acts, catching a show while in Moscow is a must. The wealth of brilliant restaurants, trendy bars, and lively nightlife means there is something for everyone to enjoy.

See also: Where to Stay in Moscow

17. Tsaritsyno Palace

Once the summer residence of Catherine the Great, the stunning Tsaritsyno Palace is now a museum-reserve. The architecture is magnificent and there is a lovely park surrounding it for visitors to explore.

Located in the south of Moscow, the palace was commissioned in 1775 and recent renovations mean its lavish interior looks better than ever before with its elegant halls and beautiful staircases.

The exhibits on display look at the life of the empress as well as the history of Tsaritsyno itself. The huge palace grounds are also home to some other delightful buildings with the elegant opera house and wonderful brickwork of the Small Palace being particularly impressive to gaze upon.

Starting out in 1935 as the ‘All-Union Agricultural Exhibition’, VDNKh has slowly morphed over the years into the fascinating open-air museum of today. Remarkably, over 400 buildings can now be found within its confines.

The huge park complex has numerous pavilions representing former Soviet republics on show, such as those of Armenia and Turkmenistan and the distinctive architecture of each of the buildings is always interesting to gaze upon. In addition to this there is the fascinating Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics which is dedicated to space exploration and the fun Moskvarium aquarium even offers you the chance to swim with dolphins.

With lots of eateries scattered about and numerous entertainment options such as horse-riding and zip-lining, there is something for everyone to enjoy; the Friendship of Nations fountain truly is wonderful.

15. Kremlin Armoury

One of the oldest museums in the city, the Kremlin Armoury has a wealth of treasures; highlights include the ornate Grand Siberian Railway egg, the historic Cap of Monomakh and the stunning Imperial Crown of Russia which often has a crowd of tourists around it, jostling to take a photo.

Once the royal armory, there are loads of fascinating objects on display. Perusing the many sabers, jewelry, armor and more is as interesting as it is educational and entertaining and the swords are so finely crafted that you’ll almost wish you could pick up one and wield if yourself.

Established in 1851, the museum is situated in the Moscow Kremlin.

14. GUM Department Store

Standing for ‘Main Universal Store’ in Russian, GUM is stunning. Its wonderful skylights and beautiful facades mean it doesn’t look out of place alongside its illustrious neighbors on Red Square.

With over 200 shops, boutiques and upmarket eateries inside, it is a shopaholic’s heaven and concerned partners will be glad to find more affordable options alongside luxury brands such as Dior and Prada.

The main department store in the city, GUM was opened in 1893. The stunning architecture makes it well worth a visit even if shopping isn’t your thing.

13. Moscow Metro

It’s not often that public transport looks like a work of art. So many stops on the Moscow Metro will astound visitors with their beauty and elegance.

Decked in marble and with frescoes covering the walls, the stations are amazing to gaze upon and are part of one of the longest metro systems in the world, with the first stations opened in 1935.

Using the metro is the quickest and easiest way to get around Moscow and braving the crowds of commuters is well worth it for the beauty all around you.

12. Arbat Street

An elegant yet lively street, Arbat is full of impressive architecture and was once a popular place to live for aristocrats, artists, and academics.

A historic place, it is down Arbat Street that Napoleon’s troops are said to have headed on their way to capture the Kremlin.

Nowadays, there are many cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as various monuments and statues to former residents such as Alexander Pushkin who was reputed to be a lover of the Russian Empress due to his massive influence in court.

11. Novodevichy Convent

Drenched in history, the Novodevichy Convent is located in a striking building that was once a fortress. This captivating place is well worth visiting when in Moscow.

Founded in 1524, the convent houses four cathedrals; Smolensk Cathedral is the undoubted highlight due to its delightful 16th-century frescoes.

Wandering around the grounds is like stepping back in time. The Novodevichy Cemetery is where many famous leaders of the Soviet Union are buried, such as Yeltsin and Khrushchev.

10. Pushkin Museum

Despite its name, the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts actually has no connection at all to the famous poet other than that it was named in his honor after his death. A delight to visit, its extensive collection focuses on European art with masterpieces by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and van Gogh all featuring.

Sculptures, graphic art, paintings and more can be found in its beautiful galleries; various sections look at themes and epochs such as the Renaissance, the Dutch Golden Age, and Byzantine art.

Among the many highlights are the clownish characters which can be found in Cezanne’s Fastnacht (Mardi Gras) and the twirling ballerinas who look so elegant in Degas’ Blue Dancers. Picasso’s Young acrobat on a Ball is also well worth checking out for its interesting use of shapes and colors.

9. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This gorgeous Russian Orthodox cathedral is located on the banks of the Moskva River, just a stone’s throw away from the Kremlin.

The church as it stands today was consecrated in 2000, as the original church that stood here was destroyed on the command of Josef Stalin in 1931 due to the anti-religious campaign.

With its delightful golden dome, spires and dazzling white facades, the Christ the Savior Cathedral is stunning. The interior is just as captivating to wander around, with its beautifully tiled floors and impressive altar.

8. Lenin Mausoleum

Opened to the public in 1924, Lenin’s Mausoleum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Moscow. The red granite structure is located at the heart of the city in Red Square.

Lenin’s embalmed body lies in a glass sarcophagus; it is a somewhat eerie experience walking past the former leader of the Soviet Union but is well worth doing as you understandably can’t do it anywhere else in the world.

After visiting the mausoleum, head to the Kremlin wall right next to it for more graves of important communist figures such as Stalin and Brezhnev.

7. Tretyakov Gallery

Home to the most extensive and impressive collection of Russian fine art in the world, the State Tretyakov Gallery is definitely worth visiting when in Moscow for the wealth of amazing art pieces that it has on display.

Having started out as the private art collection of the Tretyakov brothers, there are now over 130,000 exhibits. Highlights include the iconic Theotokos of Vladimir which you will almost certainly recognise despite probably not knowing the name and Rublev’s Trinity which is considered to be one of highest achievements in Russian art.

An absolute must for art lovers, the State Tretyakov Gallery will delight visitors with all that is has to offer.

6. Kolomenskoye

Once a royal estate, Kolomenskoye is now a museum-reserve and lies a few kilometers outside of the city center. A captivating place to visit, there is a plethora of history on show and the site overlooks the Moskva River.

Consisting of four historical sites, there are extensive gardens for visitors to explore, as well as loads of interesting old buildings, the former village of Kolomenskoye itself and the impressive Palace of the Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich – once considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by contemporaries.

Among the many stunning sights, it is the brilliantly white Ascension Church that is the undoubted highlight – dating back to 1532.

5. Gorky Park

Lying alongside the Moskva River, the huge Gorky Park is a lovely place to visit. Its extensive gardens are home to numerous cultural institutions and visitors should definitely check out the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and while the eclectic exhibits may not always feature such incredible sights as a balloon-covered rider on a zebra; they certainly always succeed in pushing back the boundaries of art.

Pop-up exhibitions and festivals can be found from time to time in the park itself and there is an open-air theatre and numerous eateries alongside a plethora of leisure activities.

Whether it’s cycling, table tennis or yoga that you are after or beach volleyball and rowing, Gorky Park certainly has it. In winter, there is a huge ice rink for visitors to enjoy.

4. Bolshoi Theatre

The Bolshoi Theatre is the main theater in the country. The amazing opera and ballet performances it has put on over the centuries go a long way in explaining Russia’s rich history of performing arts.

While the Bolshoi Ballet Company was established in 1776, the theater itself was opened in 1825. The glittering, six-tier auditorium is lavishly and decadently decorated; it is a fitting setting for the world-class performances that take place on its stage.

Spending a night watching a performance of such classics as The Nutcracker or Swan Lake at the Bolshoi Theatre is sure to be a memorable experience and the beauty all around you only adds to the sense of occasion.

3. Moscow Kremlin

This famously fortified complex is remarkably home to five palaces and four cathedrals and is the historic, political and spiritual center of the city. The Kremlin serves as the residence for the country’s president. It has been used as a fort, and this fact is made clear by its sheer size. The Kremlin’s outer walls were built in the late 1400s.

Under Ivan III, better known as Ivan the Great, the Kremlin became the center of a unified Russian state, and was extensively remodeled. Three of the Kremlin’s cathedrals date to his reign that lasted from 1462-1505. The Deposition Church and the Palace of Facets were also constructed during this time. The Ivan the Great Bell Tower was built in 1508. It is the tallest tower at the Kremlin with a height of 266 feet (81 meters).

Joseph Stalin removed many of the relics from the tsarist regimes. However, the Tsar Bell, the world’s largest bell, and the Tsar Cannon, the largest bombard by caliber in the world, are among the remaining items from that era. The Kremlin Armory is one of Moscow’s oldest museums as it was established more than 200 years ago. Its diamond collection is impressive.

The Kremlin’s gardens – Taynitsky, Grand Kremlin Public and Alexander – are beautiful. The Kremlin has also served as the religious center of the country, and there is a tremendous number of preserved churches and cathedrals here. The collections contained within the museums include more than 60,000 historical, cultural and artistic monuments. Those who enjoy the performing arts will want to consider attending a ballet or concert at the State Kremlin Palace. Completed in 1961, it is the only modern building in the Kremlin.

2. Red Square

Lying at the heart of Moscow, Red Square is the most important and impressive square in the city. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions due to its wealth of historical sights and cultural landmarks.

Drenched in history, the huge square is home to incredible sights such as the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum, among others. Consequently, it is not to be missed when in Moscow as it really is home to the city’s most stunning monuments.

It is here that many important moments in Russian history took place; the former marketplace has hosted everything from Tsar’s coronations and public ceremonies to rock concerts and Soviet military parades. Wandering around the massive square is a humbling experience and undoubtedly one of the highlights the city has to offer.

1. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Located in the impressive Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral is gorgeous; its delightful spires appear as if out of a fairytale. The most recognizable building in the country, the cathedral is very much a symbol of Russia. No visit to Moscow is complete without having taken in its unique and distinctive features.

Ivan the Terrible ordered the cathedral’s construction in the mid-16th century, and legend holds that Ivan put out the architect’s eyes so that he would be unable to build another cathedral more glorious than St. Basil’s. Designed to resemble the shape of a bonfire in full flame, the architecture is not only unique to the period in which it was built but to any subsequent period. For various reasons, both Napoleon and Stalin wanted to destroy the cathedral but fortunately did not succeed.

Known for its various colors, shapes and geometric patterns, St. Basil’s Cathedral houses nine different chapels that are all connected by a winding labyrinth of corridors and stairways. On the lower floor, St. Basil’s Chapel contains a silver casket bearing the body of St. Basil the Blessed.

Throughout the cathedral are many beautiful murals, frescoes, wooden icons and other art works and artifacts. Outside the cathedral is a lovely garden with the bronze Monument to Minin and Pozharsky, who rallied an all-volunteer Russian army against Polish invaders during a period of the late 16th century known as the Times of Troubles.

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Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Moscow

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Moscow is one of Europe's most enigmatic destinations, home to a fascinating history and colorful, awe-inspiring architecture you won't find anywhere else in the world. Moscow might be one of the most populous cities in the world with over 11 million inhabitants, but this hasn't changed its strong cultural and social traditions.

Walk the cobblestone streets of the Red Square or the banks of the Moskva River early in the morning, and it's hard to tell what century you're in.

Tsarist architecture, must-see churches, and glamorous shopping opportunities blend together for a visual experience you won't forget. For ideas on what to see and do while visiting Russia, here's our list of top tourist attractions in Moscow.

1. Marvel at the Size of the Kremlin

2. catch a performance at the bolshoi theatre, 3. shop at the luxurious gum, 4. make your way into lenin's mausoleum, 5. spend an hour (or three) at red square, 6. discover history at the museum of cosmonautics, 7. ride the stunning moscow metro, 8. explore the moscow state integrated museum-reserve, 9. spend a rainy day at the tretyakov gallery, 10. walk up and down arbat street, 11. stop by the vdnkh all-russian exhibition centre, 12. wander around gorky park, where to stay in moscow for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions & things to do in moscow.

Moscow's most recognizable structure is without a doubt the Kremlin, a 15th-century fortified complex that covers an area of 275,000 square meters surrounded by walls built in the 1400s.

The Grand Kremlin Palace -which has over 700 rooms- was once home to the Tsar family and is now the official residence of the president of the Russian Federation, although most heads of state choose to reside elsewhere.

The massive complex also includes many other buildings, some of which are open to the public and can be visited regularly. Aside from three cathedrals (including one where the Tsars were once crowned) and a number of towers, the Kremlin is also home to the Armory building, a museum holding everything from the royal crown and imperial carriages to the ivory throne of Ivan the Terrible and Fabergé eggs.

The Bolshoi Theater is home to the largest and one of the oldest ballet and opera companies in the world . While the theater has undergone several major renovations over the past century-including a recent one in 2011 to restore some of the imperial architectural details-it still retains all of its Neoclassical grandeur.

The Bolshoi Theater you see today opened in 1824, after several older versions burned down. Inside, red velvet, a three-tiered crystal chandelier, and gilt moldings give the place a Byzantine-Renassaince grandiose feel like no other.

Catching a show from the resident ballet and opera troupes is a treat, as the theater often presents a number of classic performances, such as Tchaikovsky's Mazeppa and Rachmaninoff's Francesca da Rimini, both of which originally premiered here.

Moscow's oldest and most upscale shopping center is an architectural marvel. GUM (short for Glávnyj Universálnyj Magazín or "Main Universal Store") was built in the late 1800s in neo-Russian style to showcase a beautiful mix of a steel skeleton and 20,000 panels of glass forming an arched roof.

This was a unique construction at the time, since the glass had to be strong enough to support the snow-heavy Russian winters. The building is just as impressive outside, with all three levels covered in marble and granite.

While GUM is no longer the largest shopping center in Moscow, it's still by far the most beautiful. Home to brands like Gucci and Manolo Blahnik, this might not be the ideal destination for most budget-conscious visitors, but the beauty of the building itself is worth a visit.

On the third floor, there are also great dining options, including a Soviet-style canteen that serves traditional Russian food, and a stand selling ice cream made by hand using an original 1954 recipe originally approved by the Soviet government.

Lenin's Mausoleum, the final resting place of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin, occupies a central spot in Red Square. His body has been in the mausoleum since his death in 1924-and although the original plan was for him to be buried after a short period of public display for mourning, the plan quickly changed.

After over 100,000 visited the tomb over a period of six weeks, it was decided that a new sarcophagus and a more permanent display space could actually preserve Lenin's body for much longer than expected-and Lenin's Mausoleum was built.

Over the years, the mausoleum and its marble stairs also became the main spot from where Soviet leaders would watch parades and events happening in Red Square.

Lenin's embalmed body can still be seen today, lying down in a bulletproof glass sarcophagus as if he's sleeping. While a visit to the mausoleum is certainly unusual, it has become a must-do for history buffs looking to understand how Lenin's legacy truly changed the nation. Come ready to wait, though -there are usually lines to get in.

All of Moscow's main streets start at Red Square, so it's easy to see why this is considered the heart of the city. A massive space of 330 meters by 70 meters, the square is flanked by the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, two cathedrals, and the State Historical Museum.

In 1945, a massive Victory Parade was held here to celebrate the defeat of Nazi Germany by the Soviet Armed Forces.

St. Basil's Cathedral , one of the most recognizable buildings on the square, was built in 1555. The unique cathedral has architectural details inspired by Byzantine and Asian design, as well as details that resemble those found in famous mosques. There are nine individual chapels inside the church, all decorated with colorful mural art.

Both the square itself and the Kremlin are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites . On weekends, there are sometimes stalls selling souvenirs and traditional items here, such as matryoshka (Russian nesting dolls), at the entrance of the square.

At one point, Russia and the US were toe-to-toe when it came to space exploration. While that might no longer be the case, the museum's amazing collection-which includes over 85,000 items-is still awe-inspiring.

Main exhibits include the space capsule used by Yuri Gagarin , the first human to travel into outer space; a USSR flag with moon fragments; a Soviet spacesuit; and a rocket propulsion unit from the 1960s. A special two-story hall showcases sections of the Mir space station interior, and there are also models of the first sputniks and a replica miniature spaceship.

English-language tours are available, and there's also a Cinema Hall showing subtitled short films about the history of space exploration programs and the first manned space flight.

The museum is located inside the base of the monument to the Conquerors of Space, which was built almost 20 years before the museum opened.

Riding the Moscow metro is an experience all in itself, but even just heading underground to walk through the stations is something no visitor should miss. With 223 stations and 12 metro lines crosscutting through Moscow, however, this can be tricky, so visiting at least a few of the most impressive ones is a good start.

Arbatskaya station was designed by a skyscraper architect, so it's no surprise that it features multicolored granite slabs and impressive bronze chandeliers.

Park Kultury station , located next to Gorky Park, is covered in marble and features reliefs of people involved in sports, while Teatralnaya station is decorated with porcelain figures dancing and wearing traditional Russian costumes.

The metro is open between 5:30am and 1:00am but it's very crowded in the early morning and after 4pm, so it's better to visit in the late morning or early afternoon to really appreciate the architecture without the crowds.

The Moscow State Integrated Art and Historical Architectural and Natural Landscape Museum-Reserve is a cultural open-air museum complex comprised of four different historical sites.

The most important site, the Kolomenskoye Estate, was once the summer residence of Tsars as far back as the 14 th century. The complex, which covers almost 300 hectares, is home to fairy-tale wooden palaces; a tent-roof stone church built in the 1500s; a water tower; fort towers and structures; and the 24-room Museum of Wooden Architecture , which includes the restored dining room of Tsar Alexei I.

Beautiful manicured gardens , riverside picnic areas, and a massive collection of both artifacts and structures make this a great destination to help you see what medieval Russia looked like. English-language tours are available, but you're also free to wander the grounds on your own.

The largest collection of Russian art in the world sits here, with over 180,000 paintings, sculptures, and religious art dating back to over a millennia ago. The gallery, built using beautiful red and white colors from classical Russian architecture, is located near the Kremlin and it was built in the early 20 th century.

Significant art pieces include the Vladimir Mother of God; a Byzantine icon of the Virgin and child dating back to the 1100s; Andrei Rublev's The Trinity icon from the 15 th century; and several works by Ilya Repin, the most famous realist painter in Russia.

On the grounds of the museum, there is also an 86-meter-tall statue of Peter the Great, as well as a number of Socialist Realism sculptures.

Moscow's one-kilometer-long pedestrian street has been around since the 15 th century. Originally a trade route in the outskirts of the city, Arbat Street is now very centrally located, home to posh buildings and lots of places to eat and shop.

Beautiful street lamps and two significant statues-one of Princess Turandot (from Puccini's last opera) and one of Soviet-era poet Bulat Okudzhava-adorn the street, which fills up with both locals and tourists on evenings and weekends.

A great place to pick up souvenirs or sit down at an outdoor café, Arbat Street also offers a chance to visit the former home of poet Alexander Pushkin and the café both Anton Chekhov and Leo Tolstoy used to visit.

Although it was originally designed as a general-purpose trade show venue, this park complex now houses amusement rides , ice rinks , and a number of galleries and other attractions for all ages.

The park's most famous landmarks are the Moskvarium, a marine biology center home to over 8000 species of marine animals, the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art, and a shopping center selling traditional products from former Soviet countries.

There's even a film museum showing Soviet cartoons or even a full-length film (for an extra fee) and an education center offering masterclasses on everything from becoming a barista to video montage (call or write in advance to find out which ones are English-friendly).

Soviet-era pavilions, sculptures, and fountains abound here as well, including the famous Friendship of the Peoples Fountain, which features statues of women dressed in costumes from different former Soviet countries.

Named after the famous Russian writer Maxim Gorky (who was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature five times but never won it) and sitting right across the Moskva River, Gorky Park covers 120 hectares of beautiful ponds and green spaces.

Popular with both locals and tourists, the park offers a variety of things to enjoy-from sunbeds, hammocks, and drinking fountains to free yoga classes and children's playgrounds. There's free Wi-Fi and sockets for charging your phone, as well as many food stands and plenty of wild animals, including deer, rabbits, and pheasants.

Visitors can rent paddle boats and bicycles to explore the park-and from May to October, there is also an open-air movie theater, as well as scheduled presentations by street performers, musicians, and artists. Gorky Park attracts the young and old, so don't be surprised to see a mix of people exercising, playing chess, and sunbathing.

Luxury Hotels :

• Lotte Hotel Moscow is one of the top 5-star properties in Moscow offering the largest Royal Suite in Russia. The trendy rooms and suites here all have contemporary style and great city views. On-site amenities are plentiful. There are two restaurants: one serving contemporary Italian fare, and the other Japanese. There is an impressively lit indoor swimming pool, a well-known spa, and a state-of-the-art gym.
• Another excellent luxury hotel is the Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow . The residential-style property is in the heart of Moscow just next to the Bolshoi Theatre and within walking distance of the Kremlin and Red Square. The rooms and suites have been opulently designed by Tony Chi. The on-site restaurant serves a mix of European and Armenian specialities. There is also a Japanese sushi bar and a rooftop lounge with fabulous city views.
• The St. Regis Moscow Nikolskaya also has a central location just a few minutes from the Kremlin and Red Square. The 5-star property has a mix of elegant rooms and suites, including interconnecting room options for families with kids. There are multiple restaurants on-site including an Italian bistro. Other amenities include the fabulous Iridium Spa, which does a full range of treatments and has an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and steam room.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Palmira Business Club is a top mid-range choice. The contemporary lifestyle hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, including options for families. Suites are quite spacious and have kitchenettes. Amenities here include a complimentary breakfast at the on-site restaurant, a hot tub, sauna, and spa. There is also a fitness center.
• The trendy Mercure Moscow Baumanskaya offers a mix of rooms and suites with contemporary decor. The mid-range hotel can arrange airport transportation and offers baggage storage. Other amenities include a restaurant and room service. The front desk is open 24 hours.
• Boutique Hotel Brighton is about 10 minutes from the city center in a leafy park area. It offers excellent value for money and has charming rooms and suites with sound-proof windows and doors, as well as blackout curtains. A complimentary breakfast is served, and there is also an indoor swimming pool.

Budget Hotels :

• Hotel Ibis Budget Moscow Panfilovskaya is about a 15-minute drive from Moscow's downtown, and it's within walking distance from a metro station that will take you there. The soundproof rooms at this budget property are clean, comfortable, and can sleep up to three people. The hotel is pet friendly, has paid parking available on-site, and also has a salon.
• If you just need a budget hotel near the airport then check out Aviator Hotel Sheremetyevo . Located right at the airport, it has soundproof rooms, including options for families. Amenities include an indoor play area for kids, a sauna and swimming pool, and a free breakfast.

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Exploring Russia: Whether you are interested in history, nature, or architecture, there's much to see in Russia. For a good introduction to some of the most fascinating spots in the country, take a look at our article on the Best Places to Visit in Russia . For more on Russia's second-largest city and all it has to offer, check out our piece on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in St. Petersburg .

Synchronous fireflies lottery for Great Smoky Mountains National Park is set. What to know

Some of the biggest stars of the Smokies are returning for a spectacular show! Synchronous fireflies are set to make their annual appearance in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park this June.

The National Park Service has announced the peak dates for viewing the synchronous fireflies, and only a limited number of people will be able to enter their delicate space. The lottery to get vehicle passes to park for the event begins April 26.

Vehicle access to the viewing area near Elkmont Campground during peak firefly activity nights has been limited since 2006 to reduce traffic congestion and to avoid disturbing the fireflies during their mating period.

Here's what you need to know about this year's dates and lottery.

When can I see synchronous fireflies in the Smokies in 2024?

Great Smoky Mountains National Park will host the annual synchronous firefly viewing at Elkmont June 3-10, according to a news release. Peak viewing dates typically fall in late May or early June.

How can I get in to see the synchronous fireflies any of those nights?

Vehicle parking passes will be available through a lottery that opens at 10 a.m. April 26 on recreation.gov and closes at 11:59 p.m. April 29.

All lottery applicants will be notified by email no later than May 6 whether they were successful or unsuccessful, according to the  National Park Service website .

Chances of “winning” in this lottery are not great. Over 20,000 people enter it each year, and only 1,120 total passes will be awarded this year through the lottery, meaning 140 vehicles per night will get the chance to see the natural event.

Applicants can choose a preferred date and an alternate date when they would like to attend. There is a $1 application fee. For winners, a $24 fee will automatically be charged to the credit or debit card used for the application fee, according to the website.

What are synchronous fireflies?

Fireflies, also known as lightning bugs, commonly come out during the summer, making their presence known with their flashing lights, which are part of their mating display. The synchronous Photinus carolinus are one of at least 19 species of fireflies in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and are among just a few species in North America known to synchronize their flashing light patterns, according to the National Park Service.

The synchronous fireflies display consists of a series of five to eight flashes, followed by a pause of about eight seconds. Then it repeats. The periods of dark and flashes begin to synchronize as more males join in, creating a light show throughout the forest.

The synchronization can be affected by environmental factors such as heavy rain or temperatures below 50 degrees.

Things to know if you go to a Great Smoky Mountains National Park firefly viewing night

If you “win” the lottery and get a vehicle parking pass for this year’s firefly viewing, here's what you need to know to make the best experience for others and the fireflies.

Parking passes are valid only for the specified date. The lottery winner must occupy the vehicle and provide matching photo ID. Passes aren't transferable. Each reservation allows one vehicle with a maximum of seven occupants to park at Elkmont that night.

Light from flashlights, cell phones and headlights disrupts the fireflies and impairs people's night vision, according to NPS. When walking to a viewing spot visitors should:

• Cover flashlights with red cellophane or use flashlights with red light filters.
• Use flashlights only when walking to the viewing spot, and turn them off when not walking.
• Point flashlights at the ground.

To protect the fireflies and their habitat:

• Do not catch the fireflies.
• Stay on the trail at all times.
• Carry any garbage back out with you.

Devarrick Turner is a trending news reporter. Email  [email protected] . On X, formerly known as Twitter  @dturner1208 .  

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