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Best mountain towns to visit in the usa.

Whether you're skiing, hiking or just traveling for the views, mountain vacations provide an air of excitement and adventure. Luckily, America has its fair share of striking peaks and rugged mountain ranges to choose from, as well as plenty of charming alpine towns that go along with them. To help you choose your ideal mountain vacation, U.S. News considered reader and expert input, as well as factors like scenery, ambiance, adrenaline-filled excursions and accessibility, to round up this selection of the best mountain towns to visit in the USA. Use this ranking to plan a future trip, and vote for your favorite towns below to have a say in next year's list.

Mammoth Lakes

Breckenridge, jackson hole, big sky, mt, pigeon forge, leavenworth, big bear lake, north conway, lake george, eureka springs.

This scenic California town sits within the Sierra Nevada mountain range and offers fun activities for people of all ages. Visitors flock here to traverse Mammoth Mountain's 150-plus ski trails and take advantage of its cross-country skiing paths, tubing park and snowmobiling excursions. Mammoth Lakes is also a popular vacation destination for those wishing to explore Yosemite National Park, as it's a short drive from the park's east entrance. Plus, there's no shortage of things to do come summer. Warm-weather visitors can go rock climbing and hiking, as well as swimming, boating and kayaking at the town's beautiful lakes.

Located about 80 miles southwest of Denver, this Colorado ski town feels like its own mountain oasis. Many visitors flock to Breckenridge Ski Resort to ski its 187 trails. For non-skiers, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking and other outdoor activities. You can even take a free gondola ride to the top of the mountain to participate in the après-ski environment without ever hitting the slopes. You'll also want to visit downtown Breckenridge's charming Main Street, which is home to restaurants, bars, souvenir shops and clothing stores, among other amenities.

A visit to this Colorado mountain town is worth a trip, no matter the season. In spring, visitors can fish in the San Miguel River or stroll around downtown's Telluride Arts District. Summer is best for hikers keen on enjoying the sunshine while exploring popular paths like the Jud Wiebe and the Bridal Veil Trail. Other exciting activities include rafting, off-roading, horseback riding and mountain biking. Fall is ideal for leaf peeping. And, of course, winter is the best time for skiing Telluride Ski Resort's slopes. For a bit of relaxation, check out one of the nearby hot springs.

This wild Wyoming town puts visitors in a perfect location to explore Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park. But while the surrounding scenery is beautiful, you'll want to experience Jackson Hole itself, as the town offers plenty of character and many activities. You can sample bison burgers at hip area restaurants and sip cocktails perched upon horse saddles at the well-known Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. Plus, there are numerous luxury hotels and spas in the area, so you can relax and pamper yourself in style after a busy day of skiing the slopes at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.

Aspen has long been synonymous with luxury. While this Colorado mountain town boasts upscale stores, five-star restaurants and a ritzy clientele, there are plenty of attractions for all types of travelers. In winter, skiers can hit the slopes at any of the surrounding mountains, though Snowmass – the town's largest ski area – is the most popular. And in summer, visitors can soak in alpine views as they hike around the Maroon Bells and its stunning Maroon Lake. Once vacationers have explored Aspen's peaks, they can take a day trip to nearby Glenwood Springs for even more hiking options.

Home to one of the country's largest ski resorts , Big Sky, Montana, is a quintessential mountain getaway. Snow-seekers can explore nearly 6,000 skiable acres via 300-plus designated trails. For non-skiers, there are plenty of other opportunities for winter fun, too. Available activities range from ice skating and snowmobiling to dog sledding and sleigh rides. The fun doesn't stop in summer, either: Visitors can enjoy the warmer temps while horseback riding, whitewater rafting or golfing. Or, use Big Sky as a gateway to Yellowstone National Park, which sits about 50 miles south.

Estes Park, Colorado – which sits about 65 miles northwest of Denver – is a great home base for anyone exploring Rocky Mountain National Park. While you should trek scenic paths like the Glacier Gorge Trail, don't miss out on spending time in the charming downtown area. The Estes Park Riverwalk, which is located by the Big Thompson and Fall rivers, is a visitor favorite. It is lined with shops, cafes, candy stores and art galleries, making it a nice place to spend an afternoon. There are also countless excursions that originate in Estes Park, including Jeep tours and whitewater rafting outings.

Its proximity to Salt Lake City (which sits about 30 miles northwest), historic downtown, abundant shopping options and tasty restaurants are just a few of the reasons why travelers love visiting this mountain town in northern Utah. Park City also offers many adrenaline-pumping activities and amenities, including zip line excursions and an alpine roller coaster. What's more, the town hosts acclaimed events year-round, such as the Sundance Film Festival and the Kimball Arts Festival. To top it off, Park City offers world-class skiing (think: hundreds of trails for skiers of all skill levels) at Park City Mountain Resort and Deer Valley Resort.

As exciting as it is scenic, Pigeon Forge offers a range of attractions guaranteed to keep your attention. From the must-visit Dollywood theme park to the science-centered WonderWorks amusement park, this eastern Tennessee locale is a premier vacation destination for families . Laugh until you cry at the Comedy Barn Theater, go for a thrilling ride on the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster or view the 400-plus artifacts on display at the world's largest Titanic museum. With activities that range from mini-golf to whiskey tasting to parrot feeding, rest assured, nobody will be bored in Pigeon Forge.

Leavenworth, Washington, is a Bavarian-style village nestled in the Cascade Mountains. Considered one of the best weekend getaways from Seattle , Leavenworth's widespread appeal comes from its unique European influence, breathtaking natural beauty and its full roster of events, which includes popular festivals like Oktoberfest, Maifest and the Christmas Lighting Festival. While there is no bad time to visit Leavenworth, those who time their visit for winter can take part in one of the town's most popular pastimes – horse-drawn sleigh rides. Before you leave, head downtown to check out the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum and to grab a traditional German beer.

People travel from all over to ski at this famous mountain town in central Idaho. Sun Valley is where the world's first chairlifts were installed in 1936, helping to cement its status as a modern ski resort destination. But if you're not a fan of schussing the slopes, don't fret: You'll find other winter activities to enjoy, including sleigh rides and ice skating. What's more, Sun Valley features hiking trails, golf courses, horseback riding areas, rivers for fly-fishing and lakes for swimming, making it an equally appealing option for a summer vacation.

Juneau is made for adventure seekers and wildlife lovers. Alaska's capital is surrounded by jagged, dramatic peaks ideal for challenging hikes, including Mendenhall Towers, Devil's Paw and Snow Tower. There are also many hiking options well-suited for beginners, such as the leisurely and scenic East Glacier Loop Trail. Other adventurous activities to enjoy here include zip line excursions and floatplane tours. After an active day outdoors, visitors can stroll the waterfront docks, check out historical buildings and sample traditional Alaskan snacks like reindeer sausage and berry cobbler in downtown Juneau.

This California mountain town sits approximately 95 miles northeast of Los Angeles but feels as though it's worlds away. Situated within the San Bernardino National Forest, Big Bear Lake provides numerous opportunities for visitors to reconnect with nature. Travelers can look forward to the scent of fresh pines and the chance to spot wildlife like mountain lions and bears. Additionally, the town is home to its namesake lake, a quaint entertainment district and Big Bear Mountain Resort, which boasts about 30 ski trails and kid-friendly amenities like a bike park, a zip line course, a climbing wall and a tube park.

Travelers will find the small town of Homer, Alaska, on the southern coast of the state's Kenai Peninsula. The quaint downtown area features art galleries, a museum, eateries and a few lodging options. Plus, visitors can head to the Homer Spit – a nearly 5-mile-long area that extends into Kachemak Bay – to admire the snowcapped Kenai Mountains, explore tide pools and enjoy fishing charters, kayaking excursions and more. A visit here wouldn't be complete without a day trip to nearby Kenai Fjords National Park, where glaciers and wildlife are plentiful.

There's no shortage of ways to spend your time in North Conway, New Hampshire. When you're not swimming at Echo Lake State Park, take a ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad. What's more, North Conway's proximity to White Mountain National Forest makes it ideal for enjoying outdoor adventures like hiking, kayaking and camping. In winter, Cranmore Mountain Resort is a great place for cold-weather activities like skiing and tubing. If you'd rather soak in the area's natural beauty from the comfort of your vehicle, try driving the famous Kancamagus Highway (this is one of the best places to see fall foliage in the country).

For a mountain getaway the whole family will enjoy, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is an ideal destination. A massive aquarium, a mountain coaster and plenty of fun restaurants make this town a kid-friendly oasis. Not to mention, Gatlinburg sits beside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, so outdoor activities abound. Hike trails like Grotto Falls and Laurel Falls to reach cascading waterfalls. Or, if you're not a hiker, the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway, which stretches for 2 miles, is an exciting way to get a panoramic look at the surrounding mountains.

Scenic Lake George, located in New York's Adirondacks region, has something for everyone. Travelers seeking rest and relaxation should opt to stay at The Sagamore Resort , where they can be pampered with luxe amenities like a championship golf course and a world-class spa. Meanwhile, adventurous travelers will have their pick of countless heart-pumping activities, including hiking, mountain biking, kayaking and zip lining. For incredible mountain views, drive the winding Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway to the summit of Prospect Mountain. Just remember to set aside time for a boat tour – the Lake George Steamboat Company offers a variety of top-rated sightseeing cruises.

Not only does Taos house a popular ski resort, Taos Ski Valley, but this northern New Mexico town also offers an exciting arts scene, natural beauty galore and plenty of history. Fill your days with trips to downtown's art galleries and museums to learn about the influence of Mexican and Native American culture in Taos. You can also opt to explore the land during hikes through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Should you crave a getaway that prioritizes relaxation, head to Taos' soothing mineral springs and wellness centers before hanging your hat at a spa resort.

Don't overlook Dahlonega when planning your next mountain getaway. Thanks to its convenient north Georgia location, Dahlonega is an excellent jumping-off point for exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains and the famed Appalachian Trail. But there are plenty of ways to occupy your time in town as well. Learn about Dahlonega's gold mining history at the Consolidated Gold Mine before sipping your way through the town on a wine tasting tour (Dahlonega is considered the heart of Georgia's wine country). Plan to arrive during the iconic Christmas festival, when the town comes alive with twinkling lights, parades, horse-drawn carriage rides and more.

Situated in northwestern Arkansas near the Missouri border, Eureka Springs is like a breath of fresh air. Travelers should spend their days taking long strolls through the Victorian-era downtown, touring the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge and exploring the destination's 60-plus natural springs. In the evening, catch a show at the aptly named Intrigue Theater, or embark on a ghost tour of the Crescent Hotel & Spa, one of America's most haunted hotels . Eureka Springs is especially popular in the fall when the Ozark Mountains become painted in varying shades of red, orange and yellow.

No matter the season, Stowe, Vermont, delivers top-notch views. The town's sunshine and greenery are major draws for spring and summer travelers, while its vibrant foliage regularly amazes autumn visitors. Some of the best activities to do during the warmer months include hiking to waterfalls, picking fruit at local farms, golfing at the Stowe Country Club and strolling through the historic downtown area. But Stowe is equally known for its ski slopes, so don't rule out a winter visit. When travelers aren't zipping down Stowe Mountain Resort's runs, they can go ice skating, try snowshoeing or ride the property's gondola.

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Woodstock, VT

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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.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

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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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.

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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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Thank you so much for the kind words!!

Wonderful, very nice article

[…] Late November or late February are particularly recommended as they offer a balance between good weather and slightly fewer…

I agree!! It is such an incredible place!

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20 Best Mountains In The World (For Your World Travel Bucket List)

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial policies .

By what standards should we measure “the best mountains in the world”?

Should it the most popular mountains? The biggest and tallest mountains? The most challenging for climbers? Or perhaps the most historically significant to the region in which they’re found?

For us, the best mountains are those that capture the imagination of locals and visitors alike. The ones that have played a role in local folklore for centuries, and which continue to draw travelers from around the world today .

It’s not just size that matters here. It’s the dynamic landscapes. It’s the flora and fauna found in the area. Chances are good that, if a mountain has been protected by National Park or UNESCO World Heritage Site status, it’s probably worthy of your bucket list consideration.

We’ve been fortunate to see some extraordinary mountains in our travels. From the Blue Ridge Mountains in the southeast to the remote landscapes of Alaska and Hawaii , the United States has been blessed with more then her fair share and picturesque peaks.

But every continent boasts its own impressive pinnacles worthy of appreciation (including the Seven Summits and the Seven Volcanic Summits). From the Appalachians, Andes, and Rocky Mountains to the Alps, Pyrenees, and mighty Himalayas, the planet offers countless ranges to explore.

So here’s a look at our totally subjective picks for the 20 Best Mountains in the World, some of which we’ve already visited, and many of which we hope to visit in the future…

READ MORE:  The 20 Tallest Mountains in the World By  Continent

LIST OF THE BEST MOUNTAINS IN THE WORLD

Mount kilimanjaro (tanzania), table mountain (south africa), ama dablam (nepal), bogda peak (china), mount everest (nepal/tibet), mount fuji (japan), zhangjiajie (china), jotunheimen mountains (norway), kirkjufell (iceland), the pyrenees (france/spain), swiss alps (switzerland), aoraki/mt. cook (new zealand), uluru (australia), cerro torre (argentina/chile), huayna picchu (peru), torres del paine (chile), vinicunca (peru), grand teton (united states), mauna kea (united states), mount logan (canada), best mountains in the world map, best mountains in africa.

Mount Kilimanjaro is world renowned as the highest mountain in Africa, one of the famed Seven Summits.

Towering at 19,340 feet, it is topped with multiple glaciers and a small (and gradually diminishing) ice field, despite being located just 190 miles south of the equator. The snowy summit is known as Kipoo in Swahili, the local language.

First climbed in 1889, the mountain is now an extremely popular hiking destination . Its summit is relatively achievable for almost anyone who is fit in terms of both health and bank balances. Just make sure that you pay attention to your guide’s admonitions to go “pole pole” (slowly).

Along the way to the photogenic summit, hardy hikers see virtually every climate, from tropical to arctic . Visitors who prefer to stay closer to sea level can also get a stunning view up from the neighboring town of Moshi.

There’s also a variety of wildlife found in Kilimanjaro National Park , predominantly below the tree line. Blue monkeys and western black and white colobuses can often be spotted (or heard) in the forest, plus leopards, elephants and cape buffaloes can be found.

READ MORE: Top 10 Tanzania National Parks (The Ultimate Tanzania Safari)

One of the most unique natural structures on the planet, this aptly named South Africa attraction looks like a piece of furniture for the gods.

Table Mountain is one of the shortest mountains on this list at a measly 3,558 feet. But what it lacks in height, it more than makes up for in prominence. Overlooking Cape Town, the mountain is a picturesque landmark that is familiar to many South African travelers.

Essentially, this is a very tall and distinct plateau that’s roughly two miles across, with each end dropping off into vertigo-inducing cliffs. On the east side, Devil’s Peak neighbors it. On the west side, Lion’s Head bookends the formation.

What makes Table Mountain a fun feature is that, unlike the other mountains on this list, this one can be climbed via cable car (built in October 1929). Hiking up the mountain is also an option.

Along the way, there are thousands of endemic species to look out for. From the top, the gorgeous city of Cape Town spreads out before you to its famous coastal border.

READ MORE:  My Life Changing Experience in South Africa

BEST MOUNTAINS IN ASIA

When you talk about the biggest mountains in the world, the vast majority are found in the Himalayas.  This 1,500 mile range stretch from Pakistan and India east to China, Bhutan, and Nepal. It’s home to more than 50 mountains that stand over 23,600 feet.

At a mere 22,349 feet, Nepal’s Ama Dablam is nowhere near the tallest mountain in the range. But it is the third most popular peak in the Himalayas in terms of permitted climbing expeditions.

The first summit of the mountain was back in 1961 by a team of US, UK, and New Zealand-based climbers. They had previously acclimatized over winter at the base camp established on an expedition with legendary mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary .

The mountain’s name means “Mother’s necklace.” Locals say that the long ridges on each side of the summit look like the arms of a mama protecting her child. The hanging glacier resembles the traditional double-pendant necklace often worn by Sherpa women, which contain pictures of the gods.

Peak climbing season here is from April to May (before that annual monsoon) and September to October. All climbers are required to get a climbing permit and a liaison officer.

READ MORE: Hiking the Annapurna Circuit Trek

Located in China, the Bogda Peak (which is sometimes referred to as Bogda Mountain) stands at a whopping 17,800-plus feet high.

The mountain is noted as being particularly striking because its sides are so incredibly steep, sloping at angles between 70 and 80 degrees. Even so, the mountain has been climbed successfully on numerous occasions.

In reality, the Bogda Peak is the highest of a two-mile, permanently snow capped ridge that juts forth from Central Asia’s UNESCO-protected Tian Shan mountain range.

Making it even more remarkable, the northern perimeter of the mountain drops into the Turpan Depression, which is an earthly hollow located some 500 feet below sea level.

Amazingly, there are other mountains within the Tian Shan range that reach even greater heights. Pik Pobedy summits at 24,589 feet, while Khan Tengri is a couple of feet shy of 23,000.

Even so, because Bogda Peak is nearer to civilization and offers a unique challenge in steepness, it gets more attention.

READ MORE: Top 10  Things To Do in China (For Nature Lovers)

Yes, we’re aware of the fact that Ama Dablam is a part of the same Himalayan mountain range as the almighty Mount Everest. And while we’d normally try to avoid featuring two mountains from the same range, no list of superlative mountains can ignore Everest and still be considered legit.

At 29,029 feet above sea level, Everest’s size is hard to quantify. However, with its challenging climbing routes and fabled (some might say tragic) history, its attraction surely is not. Many people consider this both the biggest and best mountain in the world.

The mountain was given its name in 1865 by Royal Geographical Society member Andrew Waugh, who was then the British Surveyor General of India. He named it after his predecessor, Sir George Everest, even though Everest himself protested the honor.

Despite its countless serious threats (including altitude sickness, avalanches, rapid shifts in winds and weather conditions) Everest has been a fixation for professional and amateur mountaineers alike for nearly a century.

The first confirmed successful summit of the mountain wasn’t until 1953, when Tenzing Norway and Sir Edmund Hillary ascended via the southeast ridge route. In the years since, the growth in Everest tourism has grown exponentially, leading to more garbage, more bottlenecks, and more deaths.

As of 2018, more than 300 people had died during their attempt to climb the world’s tallest peak.

READ MORE: Tibetan Culture in Ladakh, India (Photo Gallery)

The crazy thing about Mt. Fuji is that, even though it’s wider than Rhode Island (78 miles, to be precise) and nearly 12,400 feet tall, it’s often hard to see. Blame clouds that smother from all sides for some of the obstructed views.

Mount Fuji is a stratovolcano– a composite cone caused by a series of serious eruptions that leave behind layers of rock, ash, and lava. The massive volcano (Japan’s #1 tourist attraction) is still active and sits atop a junction of three tectonic plates.

From July-August, thousands of climbers attempt to make the eight-hour ascent up the mountain. Approximately 200,000 people make it to the summit annually.

The 10 stations along the way provide both a chance to catch your breath and capture the breathtaking views. The mountain is arguably Japan’s most photographed natural landmark .

Mount Fuji is also considered sacred in the ancient practice of Shinto, and has an impressive collection of shrines around its base.

READ MORE: Saving Endangered Asian Animals (Wildlife Conservation Programs)

Located in the northwestern part of China’s Hunan province, the 11,900-acre Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is part of the larger  Wulingyuan Scenic Area , a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site.

China’s first national forest park, Zhangjiajie is best known for its massive pillar-like geological formations. They’re commonly known as the Avatar Mountains, as they were the inspiration for the Hallelujah Mountains featured in James Cameron’s 2010 film, Avatar .

Though these massive pillars resemble limestone karst landscapes , they were actually formed by years of physical erosion resulting from expanding ice in wintertime. The tallest, which was formerly known as the Southern Sky Column, measures over 3,050 feet.

Due to the year-round moist weather, the foliage here is always abundant and verdant. If you visit, head to the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, where you can take in jaw-dropping views from a scenic perch atop the mountain.

Plan to spend at least two to three days in the area, and make sure to bring good shoes for walking ! The best times to visit are in summer (when the weather is best) or in autumn (if you want to avoid the crowds ). 

READ MORE: The Best Travel Clothes for Women & Men (An Epic Guide)

BEST MOUNTAINS IN EUROPE

Arguably our favorite part of an epic week-long  Fjords of Norway road trip , the Jotunheimen Mountains are a highlight of the gorgeous  Sognefjellet National Tourist Route .

Driving is the best way to see it, because the route takes you through Northern Europe’s highest mountain pass. There are so many jaw-dropping scenic vistas along the way, you’ll want to stop and take photos after nearly every stomach-turning switchback.

County Road 55 has connected eastern and western Norway for centuries, running from the quaint villages of the Sognefjord to the verdant Bøverdalen valley. Along the way, you’ll find yourself surrounded on all sides by snow-capped mountains, impossibly green fields and rushing waterfalls .

The views only get more stunning as you ascend into Jotunheimen (which aptly translates as “The Home of the Giants”). This 1,351-square mile area contains all of the 29 highest mountains in Norway , most of which tower over 6,600 feet. 

Even at the beginning of Norway’s high tourist season, you’ll likely see very few other cars along the way. In fact, we saw more sheep than people– most of them allowed to graze freely.

READ MORE: Driving Through Norway’s Jotunheimen Mountains

Located along the main road (Route 54) in Grundarfjordur, Iceland, Kirkjufell is considered one of the most photographed mountains in the world. Game of Thrones fans may recognize “church mountain” (named for its uncanny resemblance to a church’s steeple) from the show’s seasons 6 and 7.

The 1,519-foot tall freestanding mountain is undeniably impressive– lush and green in summer months and often covered with ice and snow in the winter.

But it’s almost always seen in the background of another Snæfellsnes peninsula show-stopper, Kirkjufellsfoss, which is widely considered among the most beautiful Iceland waterfalls .

The falls are relatively small but remarkably picturesque, allowing visitors to walk right up to the cascading water. And when you combine the crystal-clear waters with Kirkjufell’s uniquely shaped summit, the site is arguably among the country’s most photogenic sites.

READ MORE: The Top 10 Things to Do in Iceland (For Nature Lovers)

One of Europe’s most picturesque mountain ranges, the Pyrenees divides the Iberian Peninsula from the rest of Europe. It stretches more than 260 miles across northern Spain and southern France , with numerous summits over 11,000 feet.

Some historians suggest the name came from Greek mythology, from a story about a princess who was raped by Hercules. After giving birth to a serpent, Pyrene runs into the woods and is torn apart by animals. The remorseful Hercules finds her body, and his wails of her name echo through the hills.

Today, these mountains are easily accessible from the major cities of Spain’s Catalonia region, including Barcelona and Girona. The gorgeous foothills, which climb over 8,000 feet and feature numerous waterfalls and hot springs, reach almost to the Mediterranean coast.

There are some hiking trails that traverse the entire length of the range, while four national parks (3 in Spain, one in France) offer shorter trails. The area is extremely popular in winter: Dozens of ski resorts can be found on both sides of the range.

Though not as rich with wildlife as other mountains on this list, the Pyrenees do boast some weird endemic animals . These include the shrew-like Pyrenean desman, the salamander-like Pyrenean euprocte, and the Pyrenean brown bear, which is slowly making a comeback after reintroduction.

READ MORE: Volunteering on a Vineyard in the Spanish Pyrenees

As a recent rockslide attests, our awe of the Alps’ prettiness should never supersede our wariness of its potential peril.

For centuries, hikers have been under the spell of Dammastock’s dramatic peaks and Matterhorn’s majestic summit. Sadly, there have also historically been many tragic cases of adventurers not succeeding on their journeys.

The Matterhorn’s most distinctive feature is its well-defined pyramid shape, which has been incorporated into the Toblerone chocolate logo and a ride at Disneyland. At 14,620 feet, it’s easily the most photographed mountain in Switzerland, but only the 10th tallest.

For postcard-worthy views of the Matterhorn, take the  cable car in Zermatt  to reach the adjacent peak, Klein-Matterhorn (a.k.a. Little Matterhorn).

And of the course the slopes of the Alps are one of the most popular places for skiing and snowboarding in all of Europe .

READ MORE:   Le Marche, Italy: A Local’s 7 Favorite Places to Visit

BEST MOUNTAINS IN OCEANIA

Most people know New Zealand ‘s most imposing mountain (12,316 feet) simply as Mount Cook.

But in a 1998 settlement between the area’s indigenous native people, the Ngai Tahu, and the Crown, the precious landmark was renamed Aoraki/Mount Cook.

Whatever the official title, everyone can agree that Aoraki’s majestic peaks are some of the most picturesque on the planet. And Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is one of New Zealand’s most popular tourist attractions.

The mountain, whose three summits are always covered in snow, annually attracts thousands of climbing enthusiasts from all around the world.

But the park is also great for hikers who want to see its soaring glaciers (including Tasman Glacier, the longest in the country) and the gorgeous reflections provided by Lakes  Pukaki and Tekapo.

READ MORE: Things to Do in Tongariro National Park (New Zealand)

Of all the national parks in Australia , Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park may be the most iconic due to Uluru, which rivals the Great Barrier Reef as the country’s most famous natural attraction.

Formerly known as Ayers Rock, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has been sacred to Australia’s indigenous Pitjantjatjara Anangu people for centuries. In modern times, it’s arguably the most internationally recognized symbol of the vast, rugged expanse known as the Outback.

Uluru rises nearly 1,150 feet above the desert. It’s best viewed at sunset or sunrise, when it turns a fiery red color. It takes roughly 3 hours to walk around the base of the mountain. Out of respect for the aboriginal people, responsible travel ideals suggest that tourists do not climb Uluru.

Despite the arid Northern Territory environment , the park is home to a surprisingly diverse array of plants and animals, including the adorable lizard known as the Thorny Devil.

Kata Tjuta is close by, and it’s easy to include if you’re taking an Australian road trip from Adelaide to Darwin. Kata Tjuta is also known as the Olgas, which have extensive spiritual and cultural significance for the local people.

READ MORE:   The Top 10 Australian National Parks

BEST MOUNTAINS IN SOUTH AMERICA

Cerro Torre rises up to over 10,000 feet through the southern reaches of the Patagonian Ice Field. It’s rocky finger of a mountain that suggests something out of Lemony Snicket , with a small bulb of ice at the top to boot.

Not only is the mountain a disputed territory between Argentina and Chile , but there’s a lot of disagreement regarding who first climbed it.

Italian climber Cesare Maestri claims to have scaled the mountain in 1959, with his partner (and only witness) Toni Egger dying in an avalanche. But later climbers found no evidence of the climb.

In 1970, Maestri attempted submitting Cerro Torre again. But this time he used a gas-powered air drill, which many climbers consider a desecration and believe totally disqualifies the ascent.

In early 2012, two different climbers (named Kennedy and Kruk) made the ascent, pulling out all of Maestri’s bolts, which stirred up a whole new controversy. The first undisputed ascent was made in 1974 by a team of Italian climbers known as “Ragni di Lecco.”

Regardless of the controversies, the mountain is considered incredibly difficult to climb. Even Jon Krakauer, author of Into Thin Air , made note of this. There’s also an adventure documentary, Cerro Torre– A Snowball’s Chance in Hell , about the “first ever free attempt” at climbing the mountain.

READ MORE:   Top 20 Things to Do in Patagonia, South America

While rather diminutive in stature— a mere 8,835 feet— Huayna Picchu is a special mountain because of what you can see from it. Its hills provide picturesque views of the main square of Machu Picchu, which is widely considered one of the world’s greatest  ancient archaeological sites .

The summit of Huayna Picchu, which is considered part of the 15th century Incan cultural site, is slightly higher than the celebrated Andean site and has its own ancient structures.

The trailhead to Huayna Picchu actually begins in Machu Picchu. The full trail is a loop that takes about 3.5 hours to complete. It includes both the amazing summit with the view, as well as a visit to the Moon Temple and Great Cavern, located near the base of the mountain.

Obviously, just reaching Machu Picchu, a treasured UNESCO World Heritage Site , can be a great adventure. Not only is it part of the New Seven Wonders of the World, but getting to it can include hiking the Inca Trail. If one goes that far, wouldn’t another few hours be worth it?

It’s an excellent opportunity to explore one of the great natural wonders of Peru .

READ MORE:   40 Best Backpacks for Travelers

Patagonia is home to some of the world’s most stunning scenic vistas, and Torres del Paine National Park is arguably the most jaw-dropping place in which to see them.

From towering rock formations (including the iconic Paine Massif) to expansive fields of wind-blown grasses that look like waves on a sea of green, Torres Del Paine’s landscapes are second to none. Perhaps this explains why National Geographic called the region, “Eden at the End of the World.”

The best hiking trail from which to see the photogenic summit is the famed W Circuit around Torres del Paine National Park . Ranging anywhere from 37 to 52 miles, depending on which route you choose, the world renowned trail usually takes about 4 days to complete. 

The W Circuit’s finest sections include the hike through the Valle Francés (where you’re virtually surrounded by massive glaciers ), and the approach to the Torres del Paine massif, whose dynamic rock towers give the national park its name.

Along the way you may see some of Patagonia’s Flora and Torres del Paine’s wildlife , which includes guanacos, foxes, caracaras, pumas, and the massive Andean condor.

READ MORE: Exploring Torres Del Paine National Park, Chile

Also known as Montaña de Siete Colores,  this 17,060-foot peak in the Peruvian Andes near Cusco is arguably the world’s most colorful mountain.

Known internationally as “Rainbow Mountain,” Vinicunca is part of the remote Ausangate range. Its unusual blue, green, red, and yellow striated hues were created by the area’s array of mineral deposits, including iron, sulfur, and copper.

Volcanic activity gradually pushed these layers up and sideways over the eons, with glaciers and weathering carving them into dynamic shapes.

These hills have been considered sacred since the pre-Inca era, and they’re still revered by the Quechua people who inhabit the area today. Many make annual pilgrimages to the mountain during the Snow Star Festival , which is held 60 days after Easter .

Though it’s considered a fairly difficult hike, the Ausangate Mountain trek offers adventurers a rare opportunity to explore one of Peru’s most beautiful natural attractions .

You probably won’t see many other hikers. But you will get a chance to see soaring Andean condors and other wildlife, soak in remote hot springs, and view the colorful sandstone mountains up close.

READ MORE:  The World’s Most Colorful Beaches (for Your World Travel Bucket List)

BEST MOUNTAINS IN NORTH AMERICA

Grand Teton is arguably one of North America’s finest national parks. It’s incredibly scenic and accessible, but not as overrun with mass tourism as, say, Yellowstone National Park .

Within the 480 square mile park’s boundaries, the 40-mile-long Teton Range rises from seemingly nowhere, with no foothills to provide a slow build up to the dramatic grandness.

Grand Teton, the park’s namesake mountain, is the range’s tallest peak at 13,775 feet. Amazingly, that only puts it as the second highest summit in Wyoming, with Gannet Peak (which is about 40 feet taller) taking the gold.

Nevertheless, in terms of breathtaking scenery and being awed by a mountain’s beauty, Grand Teton is pretty difficult to top. There are a few dozen different routes for climbing it, and at least five routes for skiing back down.

The area has plenty of camping, hiking , watersports, and historical cowboy culture to explore. It’s also one of the  best national parks in the USA for watching wildlife . There are 60+ mammal species there, including grizzlies, wolves, elk, moose , river otters, cougars, and wolverines.

Though it doesn’t necessarily rank impressively in terms of North America’s highest peaks, the overall experience insists that Grand Teton be included on any list of America’s best mountains.

READ MORE: An Epic List of US National Parks By State

If you strictly measure from sea level to summit, Mount Everest is easily the tallest mountain on the planet at 29,029 feet.

But if you go from the top of the mountain to its base, Hawaii’s Mauna Kea is actually the biggest, measuring 33,476 feet from its base on the floor of the Pacific Ocean. The problem is that all but 13,796 feet of the dormant volcano’s massiveness lies hidden underwater.

Still, it’s a formidable landmark, and watching the sun set from above the clouds on its summit is one of our favorite things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii . The awe-inspiring 8-hour tour takes you up the mountain slowly, stopping at the visitor center to eat dinner and get acclimated to the altitude.

The view from the top is literally dizzying: You’re above 40% of Earth’s atmosphere, surrounded by the world’s leading astronomical observatories. It’s crazy to go from bikinis on the beach to parkas on the snow-capped summit in one day, but it’s one of the things that makes Hawaii so awesome.

Afterwards you descend to an area near the visitor center, where the crystal clear night sky makes for an exceptional stargazing experience. By the time you’re done, you’ll understand why this sacred place figures prominently in indigenous Hawaiian mythology.

READ MORE: Hawaiian Mythology (Hawaiian Gods, Goddesses, & Legends)

Located in Canada’s southwestern Yukon territory (just under 25 miles from the Alaska state line), Mount Logan is the tallest mountain in the country.

It’s also the second highest summit in North America, not to mention being recognized as having the largest base circumference of any mountain (volcanoes not included) on the planet.

Mount Logan is located in the 8,499 square mile  Kluane National Park & Reserve , a vast wilderness of forests, glacier-fed rivers, ice fields, and dynamic landscapes. Wildlife in the park include caribou, moose, grizzly bears, Dall sheep, wolves , and more than 100 different species of birds.

Mount Logan is actually a massif, which is a mountain mass that– via faults and flexures– has moved up as a single unit. Thanks to tectonic action, the mountain is continually gaining height. Apparently, the sky isn’t actually the limit!

Mount Logan’s highest summit, Philippe Peak, has been calculated at 19,551 feet. It also has one other peak above 19,000 feet, the East Peak, as well as a half-dozen peaks over 18,000 feet and two over 17,000. In other words, there’s a lot of summiting to be had on this ridiculously rotund mountain. –by DeMarco Williams, Bret Love, and Jonathan Engels

READ MORE: 60+ Cool Camping Gear Reviews

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We've been spotlighted in major media outlets such as the BBC, Chicago Tribune, Forbes, The Guardian, Lonely Planet, National Geographic, Travel Channel, Washington Post and others.

Owned by Bret Love (a veteran journalist/photographer) and Mary Gabbett (business manager/videographer), USA Today named us one of the world's Top 5 Travel Blogging Couples. We were also featured in the 2017 National Geographic book, Ultimate Journeys for Two, for which we contributed a chapter on our adventures in Rwanda. Other awards we've won include Best Feature from both the Caribbean Tourism Organization and the Magazine Association of the Southeast.

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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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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

Freelance PureWow Editor

Resident Hufflepuff, Beyonce historian, self-proclaimed tea sommelier

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21 Great Mountain Hikes in the U.S.

By Lauren Matison

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

There are certain mountain hikes that stay with you forever. There's just something about mountain hiking, with the rush of adrenaline required to climb up—and, sometimes, serious altitude thrown into the mix. But whether you choose to explore the underappreciated peaks of the East Coast , the very top of Texas, or a hidden paradise in Hawaii , the best mountains hikes will reward your efforts with memorable views. 

Below, we share the best mountain hiking trails in the U.S. Some of these hikes are kid-friendly, while others will send you home with noodles for legs; most are day hikes, while a few offer the chance for an overnighter. But if nature is Earth’s love language, seldom will you feel more alive, or more connected to the planet, than when you’re walking atop these mountains. 

Before you head out, there are a few things to keep in mind. Whenever hiking mountains, you’ll want to plan accordingly, which means  packing the essentials , checking the weather forecast, and chatting with local park rangers for any trail changes and wildlife activity. As always, keep  Leave No Trace principles in mind, stick to the trail, and be respectful of other hikers.

Here are the 21 best mountain hiking trails to consider for your next adventure.

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Maroon Bells in Aspen, Colorado

West Maroon Pass from Crested Butte to Aspen , Colorado

Featuring the most photographed peaks in the state, the Maroon Bells , this 11-mile hike is simply spectacular. If you plan it right to experience the best wildflower season in mid-June to late July, you’ll trek past towering stalks of green gentian amidst blue Columbine, magenta elephantella, and yellow sunflowers that burst into bloom along the switchbacking trails and across the hillsides for miles. As you gain 3,000 feet of elevation, topping out at 12,500 feet, there will be marmots, alpine lakes, waterfalls, snowfields, river crossings, and plenty of mountain panoramas. Once you get to Aspen , shuttle back to your starting point or spend the night and hike the magic all over again the next day.

The view of Ann Lake from Maple Pass Loop in Washington

Heather - Maple Pass Loop , Washington

Often overshadowed by Mt. Rainier’s Fremont Lookout, this 7.2-mile moderately difficult roundtrip hike is no consolation prize. In the North Cascades , in late September or early October, you’ll be treated to the season of golden larches, where brilliant yellow groves make it feel as though the trees are giving you a standing ovation for your progress. After hiking through old growth forests, around slim paths with rocky slopes, and on top of a ridge, you'll reach an elevation of 6,650 feet, where the views of Ann Lake and the surrounding Swiss Alps-y setting will send heart-is-full shock waves through your body.

Mount Marcy via Van Hoevenberg Trail , New York

The tallest mountain in the Adirondacks and the highest point in the Empire State, Mount Marcy is a character-building, bucket list-worthy hike, and a go-to adventure for those living in the ‘Dacks.’ Even if you wisely pick a shoulder season, this is a popular eight hour climb, so you’ll want to rise before dawn in nearby Lake Placid to get a head start. Throughout the 16.2-mile roundtrip hike with 3,166 feet of elevation gain, you’ll find narrow boardwalks, rocky passes, and gushing Indian Falls. When you reach the 5,344 foot summit, where Teddy Roosevelt stood in 1901, you'll look out over the High Peaks with a surefooted sense of accomplishment likely shared by the historical figure, who descended the mountain and went to Buffalo to be sworn in as the 26th president. If it’s a hot day, take a revivifying dip in Phelps Brook on the way down.

The Chimney Pond Trail in Baxter State Park, Maine

Chimney Pond Trail , Maine

Baxter State Park has more than 200 miles of hiking trails, like this 6.3-mile roundtrip hike favored by locals. Come summer, expect a colorful wilderness and amusing attractions, from boulder stairs and wooden planks to waterfalls and wading moose. Although this hike with roughly 1,500 feet of elevation gain doesn’t summit Mt. Katahdin, Maine's highest peak, some would argue that reaching Chimney Pond, ringed with mountains, is just as rewarding. 

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Hikers on Waihee Ridge Trail in Hawaii

Waihee Ridge Trail , Hawaii 

To experience these four miles in the West Maui Forest Reserve is to know the sheer unalloyed pleasure of true paradise. With 1,591 feet of elevation gain, this is no walk in the park, and rain can mean muddy, slippery trail conditions. But Maui’s grandeur is on full display at every turn, keeping you mesmerized despite tired legs. Taking in the expansive views of the island and surrounding Pacific Ocean, you might catch yourself whispering Mahalo nui, struck by an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the vast unspoiled wilderness.

Grandfather Mountain’s Profile Trail , North Carolina 

This eight-mile roundtrip trail is a waking dream of a hike. Traipsing along a cliff, which pioneers saw as the face of an old man, the Profile Trail steadily climbs 1,775 feet through startling terrain: one mile it’s a rolling pink pathway of rhododendron, the next turn there are coves and woods dense with ferns and firs, then a canopy of red spruce and mountain maples and a field of creatively arranged boulders. It’s a nonstop visual spectacle—there are also waterfalls and a mile-high swinging bridge —a welcome distraction during the strenuous steep ascents and dare-devilish ladder climbs. Atop 5,964-foot Calloway Peak, one of the tallest in the Blue Ridge Mountains , catch your breath in front of majestic long-range views of North Carolina High Country. 

The Mount Greylock Range in Massachusetts

Mount Greylock via Bellows Loop Trail , Massachusetts

The highest point in the state at 3,491 feet, Mount Greylock looms above the Berkshires , casting a spell over all who visit the region—including Herman Melville. While working from his study in Pittsfield in 1850-51, the author looked out at the snow-covered mountain and saw the shape of a white whale that would inspire “Moby Dick.” The 6.5-mile out-and-back hike up this National Natural Landmark (also on the National Registry of Historic Places), has an unrelenting incline up 2,260 feet towards the summit, where you’ll find views as far as 90 miles away, a delicious meal at seasonally operating Bascom Lodge, and the occasional black bear. After the hike, enjoy a well-deserved rest in the  Greylock Room at the Guest House at Field Farm, a 1948 Bauhaus-inspired home on 316 acres of conserved land featuring sculptures, four miles of trails, and front row views of Mount Greylock.

The drive down from Mount Washington in New Hampshire

Mount Washington via Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail , New Hampshire

The best kind of hikes leave you with a childlike sense of awe and wonder, and this 8.2-mile out-and-back hike does just that. Best done between May and October, the ‘Ammo Trail’ will push your limits even if you are a seasoned hiker. With over 3,812 feet of elevation gain, the path is a real calf burner. Beyond the sheer rock faces, there are several waterfalls and deep mysterious woods out of a fairy tale. People often break up the climb by camping at the Appalachian Mountain Club’s  Lake of the Clouds hut , which alone is worth the trip.

Lye Brook Falls Trail , Vermont

Located in the the Lye Brook Wilderness in Green Mountain National Forest , this 4.7 mile out-and-back hike near Manchester harbors one of the tallest waterfalls in Vermont . Following century-old logging roads, now resplendent with groves of birch, beech, and maple, and then a potentially muddy uphill slog, you’ll hear Lye Brook Falls. Come spring, the snow melt brings a phenomenal cascade that drops 125 feet over a twisting staircase of rocky tiers that you can see up close.

Mineral Ridge Trail in Idaho

Mineral Ridge Trail , Idaho 

For a minimal effort with big rewards, look to the Idaho Panhandle National Forest, just outside the artsy celeb-studded town of Coeur d’Alene. Hikers will delight in this 3.3-mile family-friendly loop that has less than 1,000 feet of elevation gain and beautiful mountain hiking trails all the way up. After winding through a pine forest, you’ll be met with views of Lake Coeur d’Alene and the Coeur d’Alene mountains, northern Idaho’s answer to the fjords of Norway . This hike can be enjoyed year round (in heavy snow, bring snowshoes and poles).

Camelback Mountain in Arizona

Camelback Mountain via Echo Canyon Trail , Arizona

Named for its resemblance to a kneeling camel, Camelback Mountain has become a cultural touchstone for local Phoenicians, fitness enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. The 2.5 mile out-and-back Echo Canyon Trail in Phoenix Mountains Preserve has 1,420 ft of elevation gain, boulder scrambles, steep ascents, and handrails, and can take up to three hours to complete. Catch the sunrise over the Valley of the Sun, when the sky turns on the mountain’s shade of red sandstone. Avoid the sweltering heat by hiking during October through April, and keep your eyes peeled for diverse wildlife, including javelina, fox, bobcat, rabbit, American kestrels, and Gila woodpeckers clinging to Cholla cactus.

The Timpooneke trail in Utah

Mount Timpanogos via Timpooneke Trail , Utah

As you work your way up to the summit of Mount ‘Timp’ Timpanogos, the second-highest mountain in Utah's Wasatch Range, you’ll encounter a gradual incline that leads to steep and narrow rocky sections with loose scree. This 14.3-mile out-and-back trail in Northern Utah’s Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest reaches an altitude of 11,752 feet and is best experienced during peak wildflower season in late July to early August, when the path meanders through meadows covered in bluebells, yellow arnicas, violet larkspurs, and orange-red Indian Paintbrush. Expect to see deer, grouse, and mountain goats, and hear the howls of coyotes echoing off the exposed limestone and dolomite massif that dates back 300 million years. If you go early on a weekday morning, you'll have the summit and Utah Valley views to yourself.

Oberg Mountain Loop via Superior Trail , Minnesota

To experience autumn on the North Shore is to understand Minnesota’s nickname, l'étoile du nord or “the star of the north.” This 2.3-mile kid-friendly loop offers multiple overlooks with you-gotta-be-kidding-me views of Superior National Forest , Lake Superior , and Oberg Lake. The most challenging thing about the hike will be leaving the maple trees at their peak; the vibrant scenery here is like a record you want to play on repeat, flipping from blazing orange side A to dazzling yellow side B and back. 

Cascade Canyon Trail in Wyoming

Cascade Canyon Trail , Wyoming

This 9.1-mile hike in Grand Teton National Park packs a wallop with its dramatic mountain arena, ethereal forests, 200-foot waterfall, and frenzy of wildflowers like flamingo-hued penstemon, purplish monkshood, and the rare calypso orchid. Between June and October, you’ll spot plenty of wildlife, from picas and marmots to fox, black bears, and a casual moose basking in the sun. While this four hour climb with more than 1,000 feet of elevation gain is worth its challenges—there are large boulder fields, steep ascents, and eye-widening drop-offs—if you opt for the 12-minute electric shuttle ride across  Jenny Lake to the trailhead, you can reduce the hike by four miles. 

John Muir Trail in California

Half Dome via the John Muir Trail , California

It’s no wonder that John Muir was in Yosemite when he wrote, “The mountains are calling and I must go.” The crown jewel of Yosemite National Park, Half Dome bewitches hikers with its sheer granite face looming 5,193 feet over the valley. Also known as “Tis-sa-ack” in Ahwahnechee, this legendary landmark has an elevation of 8,844 feet, so be prepared for a full day of climbing— with a required permit . If you start this roughly 15-mile route before sun up, you’ll find few hikers and a sky full of stars , not to mention a spellbinding sunrise as you follow cliffside switchbacks and stony staircases next to tall waterfalls. After flatter woodsy stretches and rock scrambles, you’ll reach the final 400-foot section, where you’ll want grippy gloves as you move up the cables to the breathtaking summit. 

Eagle Creek Trail in Oregon

Tunnel Falls via Eagle Creek Trail , Oregon

In the Columbia River Gorge within Mount Hood National Forest , this 12.5 mile out-and-back hike with 2,000 feet of gentle elevation gain is a waterfall lover’s dream. Located in the foothills of the Cascade Range in the northernmost part of Oregon , this verdant hike is filled with photo opps between the numerous waterfalls, bridges, towering basalt walls, and swimming holes . After navigating some steep narrow ledges with cable handrails, you’ll reach Tunnel Falls, where a path completed in 1920 allows hikers to pass behind the 165-foot waterfall. Hike another 0.5 miles to see the striking 148-foot Twister falls. 

The view from Wheeler Peak in New Mexico

Wheeler Peak via Williams Lake Trail , New Mexico 

New Mexico has the wildest mix of terrain in the country, from its moonlike dunes of White Sands National Park to the Alien Throne hoodoos in the Valley of Dreams, to the fiery sandstone cliffs of Red Rocks Canyon. If you need any further proof, just go stand on top of 13,167-foot Wheeler Peak, the tallest point in New Mexico—although it feels more like Colorado . After ascending a wooded trail and skirting Williams Lake, you’ll enter single track in the open tundra, amid chirping pika and lounging bighorn sheep. As you near the summit, carefully treading loose scree and tiptoeing along the ridge, you’ll be enveloped by views of Taos Ski Valley , the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and Wheeler Peak Wilderness. Best relished between June and October, you’ll want to start this 8.5-mile out-and-back trail with roughly 3,000 feet of climbing early to avoid being caught on the ridge during one of the frequent afternoon thunderstorms.

The Highline Trail in Montana

Highline Trail , Montana

The most profound hiking experience to be had in Glacier, this 14.9 mile out-and-back trail hugs the cliffs for much of the way up 2,578 feet, topping out at 7,280 feet. Heart-clutching views of lush valleys and colossal snow-capped mountains invoke Patagonia , only with the added bonus of grizzlies, big horn sheep, and bucks. Get an early start in the summer and consider tacking on the glorious 1.5-mile side trip to the Grinnell Glacier Overlook to hover over the disappearing glaciers for one of the all-around best hikes in Glacier National Park . 

Angel Rocks Trail to Chena Hot Springs , Alaska

When you’re in Alaska , every hike is bound to be gorgeous. But this multifaceted 8.7-mile point-to-point trek blows even the Mendenhall Glacier out of the water. An hour northeast of Fairbanks , you’ll find switchbacks winding up 1,204 feet to a thrilling valley overlook. Keep an eye out for moose as you continue on through forested hillsides, above the timberline, then down through another peaceful forest to  Chena Hot Springs Resort , where you’ll soak in the healing mineral waters, visit the ice museum, and watch the dancing green bands of the Northern Lights —best viewed in August to October. 

The trail up Guadalupe Peak in Texas

Guadalupe Peak Trail , Texas

From the highest point in Texas , at a surreal 8,751 feet, you’ll look out over nothing but rocky mesas and desert plains. Located on Mescalero Apache ancestral land in Guadalupe Mountains National Park, this 8.4-mile out-and-back trail has an elevation gain of 2,952 feet and may take around six hours to complete. There are steep rocky switchbacks, five-foot-wide paths with jarring drop-offs, and a jaunt through a forest of pinyon pine, Douglas fir, and southwestern white pine. But before you even take a step, know that you’ll be hiking in the world’s most extensive ancient fossil reef; Guadalupe Mountains originated as a marine reef in the Permian Period about 280 to 250 million years ago. Although the temperatures are milder in the spring and fall, you’ll still want to get up early to make the most of the ascent and peak.

Bear Mountain Trail , Connecticut

While the tallest peak in the state offers ravishing views of the Berkshires in Massachusetts to the north and New York’s Catskills to the west, getting there is equally exhilarating. The 6.1 mile loop in Mount Riga State Park takes hikers up 1,683 feet, through narrow jungly paths filled with pink and white trillium flowers, wood anemone and violets, over steep and rocky sections, and onto two miles of the Appalachian Trail before reaching Bear Mountain’s 2,316 foot summit. Have a picnic while savoring the sights of verdant mountains, lakes, and a heavenly atrium.

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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.

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15 Best Places to Visit in Georgia — From Charming Mountain Towns to Sandy Beaches

The best places to visit in Georgia range from bustling college towns to barrier islands with wild horses and unspoiled beaches.

While the state of Georgia may be synonymous with peaches and resounding chants of “Go Dawgs,” it’s also a region filled with history, charming small towns , bustling cities, and an incredible amount of biodiversity. There’s a high chance you’ve found yourself passing through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport — it is the busiest airport in the world , after all — but you’ll need to make your way outside of the terminals in order to experience the quaint bookstores of Savannah and the adrenaline-pumping hikes in Tallulah Gorge. During the hot, muggy summer months, nothing beats a dip in Lake Oconee or an oceanfront breeze on Tybee Island . 

With so many amazing places within Georgia’s nearly 60,000 square miles, it can be hard to narrow down your must-see list — so we did it for you. From the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains to the picturesque beaches of the Golden Isles, here are the best places to visit in Georgia.

Famous for its highly walkable Historic Landmark District, Savannah is one of those rare cities that’s just as beautiful in person as it is in stylized, perfectly lit pictures. Its cobbled streets, tree-lined squares and parks, and gorgeous 18th and 19th-century buildings make it one of the South’s most photogenic cities — not to mention, its culinary scene is one of the best in the region. Be sure to grab an espresso from The Paris Market Cafe , pick up a new novel from E Shaver Booksellers , go on a ghost tour , and tuck into a meal at Chef Mashama Bailey’s The Grey .

You don’t need to be a die-hard University of Georgia fan to visit Athens, although we wouldn’t recommend going during football season if you’re rooting for the other team. Outside of sports, the college town has a lively music scene, numerous craft breweries, and a variety of family-friendly activities, including the State Botanical Garden of Georgia and Bear Hollow Zoo .

Lake Oconee

A boat day is the perfect antidote to Georgia’s humid summers, and you’ll find plenty of respite from the oppressive heat on Lake Oconee. Halfway between Atlanta and Augusta, the man-made lake offers opportunities for boating, swimming, fishing, and water sports. It’s also the backdrop for the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee , which hosts the Lake Oconee Food & Wine Festival every year.

Cumberland Island

Accessible only by ferry or boat (although public docking is temporarily prohibited), Cumberland Island is one of the most majestic places on the East Coast . Wild horses, historic ruins, long stretches of untouched beaches, marshes, and maritime forests can be found on the 9,800 acres of Congressionally designated wilderness. Its remoteness and sheer beauty were, no doubt, two of the reasons it served as John F. Kennedy, Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s wedding locale in 1996.

It’ll take more than just one trip to hit all of Atlanta’s hot spots, so return visits are recommended if you want to see everything the capital city has to offer. First-timers, however, should make sure to reserve tickets to the Georgia Aquarium (the largest aquarium in the United States), have a meal at Ponce City Market , check out a Braves game at Truist Park, and stop by the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park , which includes the home where the Civil Rights leader was born, the Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, and the resting place of both King and his wife, Coretta Scott King.

You’ll only need to drive about an hour north of Atlanta to make it to Dahlonega, the site of America’s first gold rush and the setting of quite a few Christmas movies . The small town lies in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and its charm leaks into every aspect of the area — from its art galleries and boutiques to its various wineries and vineyards. Dahlonega is also in the heart of Georgia’s wine country, boasting incredible spots like Cavender Creek Vineyards & Winery , Wolf Mountain , and Montaluce Winery & Restaurant .

Each of Georgia’s Golden Isles has a distinct personality, and Sea Island is, by far, the grandest of the four. Resort reservations are required to get past the gates (unless you’re a Sea Island Club member), but once you do, you’ll find complete paradise. The Cloister at Sea Island is probably the most recognizable sight on the 5-mile-long island, but there are also pristine beaches, championship golf courses, a tennis club, and a world-class clay shooting school.

Jekyll Island

In the winter months of the Industrial Age, the Rockefellers, Morgans, and Vanderbilts (among other wealthy families) ventured to Jekyll Island . Today, its draw is still strong, thanks to its stunning landscape, culinary feats, and concerted effort to preserve the land. Whether you’re staying at the storied Jekyll Island Club Resort or pitching a tent at the Jekyll Island Campground , the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and the otherworldly Driftwood Beach deserve spots on your itinerary.

When the mountains are calling, a trip to Blue Ridge, Georgia just might be the answer. Like many mountain towns, Blue Ridge has a thriving arts scene as well as seemingly endless outdoor activities. If you’d prefer to explore the area by train, hop on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway at the historic depot downtown for an out-and-back adventure along the Toccoa River.

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Georgia’s mountains refuse to be overshadowed by its spectacular beaches, so it’s no wonder millions of travelers make their way to the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest every year. Encompassing nearly 867,00 acres, the national forest is home to miles of freshwater streams and rivers, waterfalls, numerous campgrounds, and plenty of space to hike and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

Every spring, fans of the “greatest game ever played” descend upon the city of Augusta and, more specifically, the Augusta National Golf Club. Washing down one of the famous pimento cheese sandwiches with an Azalea cocktail is basically a requirement of attending the Masters, but you can also find quintessential Southern cuisine outside of the golf club. Frog Hollow Tavern , Beck’s , and Abel Brown Southern Kitchen & Oyster Bar frequently make the “best of” Augusta restaurant lists.

Tybee Island

A 20-minute drive will take you from Savannah to Tybee Island, one of the best beach towns in the South . Here, you’ll find miles of bike-friendly beaches, unparalleled sunsets, and Georgia’s tallest (and oldest) lighthouse. House rentals are easy to find, but if you’re just visiting for the weekend, book a room at the historic, recently renovated 17th Street Inn .

Tallulah Gorge State Park

Tallulah Gorge State Park is rife with heart-pumping activities, including hiking along the two-mile Tallulah Gorge. One of the most popular trails includes a staircase descent to an 80-foot suspension bridge crossing over the Tallulah River. If you’re there in the autumn, your views of the powerful river and waterfalls will be accented by the colorful foliage that covers the region.

25 miles of shoreline outline Georgia’s Lake Rabun, an isolated body of water surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. While the phrase “stepping back in time” may be clichéd, it’s also accurate — especially if you take into account the flotilla of vintage wooden boats that traverse the lake.

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is located in the southeastern corner of Georgia, just north of Florida. The 680-square-mile wilderness can be explored by foot or by boat (guests can rent canoes and kayaks), but no inch of the refuge is the same. No matter which area you choose to visit — the forested cypress swamps or the wet "prairies" — you’ll probably see at least one of the 15,000 alligators who call the Okefenokee Swamp home.

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Read the original article on Travel & Leisure .

• #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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• North Carolina

10 Best Mountain Towns to Visit in North Carolina, According to Local Experts

From Highlands to Boone, these are the best mountain towns in North Carolina.

It only takes one trip to Western North Carolina to grasp the magnitude of its appeal. Home to several subranges of the Appalachian Mountains, most notably the Smokies, this region of the Tar Heel State brims with natural beauty all year round. A combination of spectacular peaks, bubbling creeks, vividly colored wildflowers, and acres of towering pine, oak, poplar, and maple trees, the mountainous landscape has an almost spiritual quality, one that people have been drawn to for thousands of years. This powerful allure eventually led to the creation of various mountain towns — from Highlands in the south up to Brevard, Waynesville, and Banner Elk.

“North Carolina’s westernmost mountain towns are where mountains and Main Streets meet,” Steven Reinhold, the adventure team leader at Cataloochee Ranch , tells Travel + Leisure . “[They] embody an environment where folks can escape their day, even for just a moment, to watch the trees sway in the breeze all within view of the Great Smokies .” For Paige Tillung, hotel manager at Half-Mile Farm , there’s also “the beauty of four very distinct seasons,” as well as the convenience of location. Most of the state’s mountain towns are within driving distance of a major airport — either Asheville Regional Airport, Charlotte Douglas International Airport, or Piedmont Triad International Airport outside Greensboro.

If the only thing stopping you from planning a trip is deciding where to go, this expert-curated list should help. Read on to discover the best mountain towns in North Carolina.

“Brevard is located in the heart of the ‘land of waterfalls’ and [it’s] mountain biking’s East Coast mecca,” says Reinhold. “Trailheads are interwoven around town, giving visitors quick access to the Pisgah National Forest, Dupont State Forest, and Gorges State Park.” While your trip should have plenty of outdoor adventure, make sure to leave time to explore Brevard’s art scene. If you’re in town in the summer, try to time your visit with an open-air show at Whittington-Pfohl Auditorium at Brevard Music Center ; otherwise, a stroll through the downtown art galleries and artisan boutiques is a must in any season.

Named T+L’s Best Small Mountain Town in 2023 , Highlands has all of the necessary characteristics and features for a picture-perfect getaway. It has “the charm of a small mountain town with all the luxury needed for a great vacation,” says Tillung; plus, she adds, there are “some of the best trails in the world,” and “the food and culture are the best you can find in the South.” Start your trip by checking into any one of the top-rated hotels in town: Old Edwards Inn & Spa , Half-Mile Farm, Highlander Mountain House , Skyline Lodge , or the recently opened Outpost Inn . Then, spend a couple of hours along Main Street, making sure to stop in Mountain Fresh Grocery for a quick breakfast or lunch. Other can’t-miss points of interest include the area’s many waterfalls and The Bascom , which hosts art exhibitions, lectures, and various classes and workshops.

Just 10 minutes down the road from Highlands sits Cashiers, a mountain town best known for stunning scenery; golfing, fly fishing, hiking, and antique shopping opportunities; and High Hampton , a much-loved luxury resort that underwent a modern redesign in 2021. Those staying at the resort may be tempted to stay on property the entire time — the Adirondack chairs and lawn beds are rather comfortable — but they’d be remiss to not explore other aspects of the tiny town. Family-owned and operated Cashiers Farmers Market , for instance, is an excellent choice for a barbecue lunch, and you’re bound to purchase something special at Vivianne Metzger Antiques , The Village Hound , or Zoller Hardware Gift & Gadget Mercantile .

Waynesville

According to Reinhold, Waynesville is the “crown jewel of mountain towns,” thanks, in part, to the destination’s prime location by Great Smoky Mountains National Park . To get your heart racing, he recommends “an unforgettable adventure” (think forest bathing or overnight backpacking) with The Appalachian Adventure Company . If you prefer to stay closer to town, browse the art galleries and antique stores along Main Street, and follow that up with a beer at Boojum Brewing Company or a coffee from Smoky Mountain Coffee Roasters . Come nightfall, there’s nowhere more luxurious to get some shuteye than The Swag , one of the best all-inclusive resorts in the South .

There’s a lot more to Boone than Appalachian State University, although cheering on the Mountaineers at Kidd Brewer Stadium is certainly a must-do activity in this college town. Families with younger travelers will embark on hours of entertainment at the famous Tweetsie Railroad , with its themed train rides and live shows, and Daniel Boone Park , where the Hickory Ridge History Museum showcases what mountain life was like in the late 1700s and early 1800s. In the summer months, cool off by floating down the New River with Wahoo’s Adventures , or find a swimming hole along Crab Orchard Falls Trail. For accommodations in Boone, you have a few choices — ranging from hotels to vacation rentals — but you can’t go wrong with Rhode’s Motor Lodge , a boutique property that opened in the fall of 2023.

Like many North Carolina mountain towns, Sylva (population: 2,623) is known for its breweries, art galleries, culinary hotspots, and proximity to hiking trails. “My favorite hike in the area is Pinnacle Park , which is home to North Carolina’s only certified forest therapy trail,” says Reinhold. Here, you’ll grab a brochure at the trailhead, then enjoy a relaxing, self-guided walk in nature. With a newfound appreciation of your surroundings, make your way to Main Street, which he says “has a seemingly infinite selection of dining options, notably Ilda , Meatballs Pizzeria , and recent James Beard [nominee] Dalaya Thai .”

Hot Springs

George Rose/Getty Images

“I believe Hot Springs might just be the hippest town in Appalachia,” says Reinhold. “The Appalachian Trail passes right through the town — utilizing one of the sidewalks on Main Street — and its throngs of thru-hikers have left their mark on this tiny town.” To prepare for hiking, mountain biking, rafting, or llama trekking in the area, or to pick up any gear you may have forgotten, pop into Bluff Mountain Outfitters . After a long day outside, refuel with pizza at Vinyl Pies , baked goods from Artisun , or a taco and beer from Grey Eagle Taqueria and Big Pillow Brewery . As the name suggests, Hot Springs is also known for its geothermal waters; visitors can head to either Broadwing Farm or Hot Springs Resort & Spa for a rejuvenating soak during their travels.

Bryson City

The title of “Outdoor Adventure Capital of the Great Smoky Mountains” goes to Bryson City, North Carolina. While small — only about 1,500 residents call it home — this is a town that goes above and beyond when it comes to mountain charm. To start planning your trip to Bryson City, book a room at the Fryemont Inn or The Everett Hotel , then begin to plot out your ideal itinerary. If you’re visiting in the summer, you’ll want to hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, take a ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, and then spend a day on the water, whether you’re white-water rafting on the Nantahala River or taking a paddleboard out on Fontana Lake.

When visiting Banner Elk, Tillung says you’ll find “small mountain town life [paired] with big luxury dreams and ideas,” as well as a “growing food scene, great golf courses,” and several places to “reconnect with nature.” In the winter, Banner Elk is particularly popular, as it’s located between two large ski resorts: Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain. Year round, travelers can ride the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster , cozy up at The Lodge at River Run , or walk along the town’s Greenway Trail System. Dining options include Artisanal , Stonewalls Restaurant , and the Banner Elk Cafe & Lodge — although be sure to check each restaurant’s website for seasonal closures.

Little Switzerland

There are few North Carolina mountain towns as unique as Little Switzerland, a seasonally open, Swiss-inspired destination on the Blue Ridge Parkway . You’ll need to plan your trip in the warmer months, anytime from mid-April through early October, to get the full Little Switzerland experience, which includes a stay at the historic Switzerland Inn , a visit to the North Carolina Mining Museum , a stop into Little Switzerland Books and Beans , and a night of live music and dancing at Geneva Hall . Just be sure to leave a moment, whether it’s closer to sunrise or sunset, to take in the spectacular views granted by the town’s elevation of nearly 3,500 feet.

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Discover the World

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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• 8 Senior-Friendly Towns in Montana

The U.S. is brimming with retiree-friendly destinations, from Florida to Maine . In the Northern Rockies and Plains, Montana is one of the most beautiful states in the country. Famous and known for its breathtaking natural scenery and wildlife, the state’s most recognizable features include majestic mountains, badlands, and prairies.

Montana is also equally interesting and comes with a diverse range of spots where seniors can thrive, from charming mountain gems to bustling cities. The state offers plenty of recreational activities, an affordable cost of living, and a tax-friendly environment, among others. Discover 8 senior-friendly towns in Montana.

Fort Benton

Fort Benton was established in 1846, making it one of the oldest towns in Montana. It offers its residents a suburban feel and has multiple perks that make it a senior-friendly destination. It includes multiple health resources for retirees, and local facilities like Missouri River Medical Center offer physiotherapy and medical care to local patients. Additionally, the homes are also available for a very affordable price of $173,500.

Retirees can spend time at the Fort Benton Museums & Heritage Complex to get an insight into the beautiful stories of this historic town. Planning golfing sessions with friends at Signal Point Golf Club’s 9-hole course is another good weekend activity to stay quick on your feet. Evening walks across Fort Benton Bridge, which dates back to 1888 and offers impressive views of the Missouri River , will allow seniors to have some peaceful moments.

Hamilton is a retirement destination that is loved for its impressive healthcare system, which includes incredible local hospitals and healthcare facilities, including Bitterroot Health - Daly Hospital and ER. Elderly care is also valued in this town, and there are a good number of residential care home facilities, such as the BeeHive Homes of Hamilton, which is uniquely designed to offer older adults personal care. Moreover, this is one of Montana's safest towns, with Gird Point and Charlos Heights being among its safest neighborhoods.

Hamilton Farmers Market is where retirees can purchase a lot of farm products, arts and crafts, and more, as well as catch up on the latest happenings around the town. Fly fishing at the Bitterroot River, a haven for the activity attracting anglers from across America, is the best option for a day out with friends. Hiking in Bitterroot National Forest, featuring a wide variety of trailheads, including Bass Creek, Blodgett Canyon, and Trapper Peak Trailhead, is the go-to destination for adventurous seniors.

Libby, a gorgeous town right in the Kootenai National Forest surrounded to the north by Purcell Mountains and to the south by Cabinet Mountains, is among the top places to spend your golden years in northwestern Montana. The town offers many adorable perks, including a low cost of living, affordable housing, and a large senior community, which is nearly 25.43% of the total population. Advertising housing prices of $347,500, lower than the United States median, with Libby East and the City Center ranking among the safest communities in town, it is not hard to guess why Libby is a preferable retiring location.

Furthermore, skiing at Turner Mountain Ski Area during winters, learning the local history and culture at the Heritage Museum, and enjoying the great outdoors, including camping and hiking at the Kootenai National Forest area, are among the top senior-friendly activities. Retirees also have the option to play golf at Cabinet View Golf Course, a challenging 18-hole golf course with incredible scenery and views.

Glendale was discovered in 1881, thanks to the Northern Pacific Railway, and later became an important stop along the line. Today, it is a wonderful destination with a beautiful downtown area allowing you to try some of the town’s most delicious restaurants, including the restaurant at Yellowstone River Inn, which comes with a lounge with a full bar where retirees can enjoy some amazing happy hour specials. Glendive’s rural setting gives it a relaxed atmosphere and, when coupled with $230,000 as the listed property cost, makes it a great option for many seniors.

The town features Makoshika State Park, one of America’s most underrated yet scenic state parks. So, retirees are never short of outdoor activities like exploring scenic hiking trails, such as Bluebird and Gurners Ridge. Seniors can also visit the Glendive Dinosaur & Fossil Museum, whose exhibits are based on Biblical context, promoting the belief that humans and dinosaurs lived together and were one of the animals in Noah’s ark. Spending time at The Gallery to admire beautiful art pieces is also a good pastime.

Whitefish , known for its picturesque natural scenery and impressive skiing opportunities, is also a senior-friendly town in Montana, thanks to its relaxed atmosphere. Additionally, it boasts a significant number of the elderly, who make up about 18.72% of the population, which is also why real estate prices are sky-high at $1.4 million.

While living here, retirees can take advantage of opportunities to explore Whitefish’s scenic attractions, including Whitefish Lake Golf Club, where they can play golf in a unique 36-hole setting while enjoying the gorgeous views of the surroundings. Meanwhile, the Whitefish Farmers’ Market, which opens every Tuesday in the summer and features live music, food items, as well as fresh products, is a great place to go over all the town gossip. Winters are exclusively for getting the best of Whitefish skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort.

The plenty of outdoor recreation choices, a close-knit community, and an incredible variety of cultural activities make Belgrade a senior-friendly town that should be your retirement destination. However, it is important to note that it is not one of the cheapest towns in Montana, with homes making the list at $602,500. Nevertheless, Belgrade’s convenient location gives residents access to incredible tourist spots in Montana, including Yellowstone, America’s First National Park.

Retirees can have conversations flowing while sipping some of the best beers in Montana at Madison River Brewing, which offers an old-school brewing experience. Lewis and Clark Park has amazing skating and picnicking opportunities. Your grandchildren can have fun at the playground and the splash park, which is available in summer.

Miles City, the county seat of Custer County, is a beautiful town that exudes a perfect Western charm from 1876. Seniors can become homeowners in this town by spending just $235,000 on average. Hearts & Home Assisted Living & Respite Care, LLC and Cottonwood Care Home are the top assisted living options to consider, if required.

Miles City is full of fun adventures, another reason many seniors will enjoy living here. The town’s Tongue River Winery offers amazing wine-tasting opportunities, with the host being so friendly and charming. The vibrant cultural heritage of the West is on display at the WaterWorks Art Museum through amazing exhibits as well as artifacts. Keeping active is not difficult in the great outdoors at Pirogue Island State Park, where retirees can go hiking, wildlife spotting, and birdwatching. Some of the area’s incredible wildlife you will encounter here include mule deer, bald eagles, whitetail, and waterfowl.

Big Timber, bordered on three sides by the Absaroka Beartooths and the Crazy Mountains and to the east by the prairies, is among the places where seniors can live happily. It also boasts a strong senior community, with seniors (65+) constituting 25.68% of the population. While planning to buy a house, keep an estimate for at least $639,000, the average housing expense in town.

Retirees have an abundance of things to keep busy with, including the Natural Bridge Falls Picnic Area, where they can go hiking and enjoy the beautiful sights of the Boulder River. Not to mention, Sweet Grass Arts Theater and Cottonwood Cinema keep the latest flicks on showtime, making them local hangout spots.

Montana might not be among the most famous destinations for seniors like Maine and Florida, but it offers amazing perks that retirees will love. One of the 8 mountain states in the U.S., the state’s diverse retirement options, from Hamilton’s fly-fishing haven to Whitefish’s relaxed atmosphere and skiing opportunities to Big Timber’s large senior population and peaceful vibe. Spending your golden years in any of the senior-friendly towns in Montana is going to be a beautiful experience.

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TravelAwaits

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.

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12 Up-and-Coming Retirement Towns to Consider in 2024

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Ah, the dream of retirement! Sipping margaritas on a deck overlooking the ocean, anyone? As retirement approaches, many Americans start dreaming of relocating to a new city that offers a great quality of life, affordable living costs, and plenty of amenities. 

While traditional retirement destinations like Florida and Arizona remain popular, some exciting up-and-coming towns are attracting more and more retirees. GOBankingRates spoke with several experts to get their insights on the best places to retire in 2024.

Asheville, North Carolina

Chris Orestis, president at Retirement Genius , says Asheville is his top pick for retirees in 2024. This beautiful mountain town has a relatively mild climate year-round and is home to some of the most stunning natural beauty in the states, as well as a lively arts and culture scene. Not only that, Asheville is known for its historic architecture, thriving (and delicious!) food and craft beer scene, and proximity to outdoor recreation like hiking and golfing.

Orestis notes that Asheville has a lower cost of living compared to many other popular retirement destinations, as well as a strong healthcare system. North Carolina also has relatively low taxes, which can be a big draw for retirees on a fixed income.

Boise, Idaho

Coming in at number two on Orestis’ list is Boise, the capital city of Idaho. While not a traditional retirement spot, Boise has been growing rapidly in recent years, thanks to its strong economy, affordable housing, and high quality of life. The city has a beautiful downtown area with great restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. The Boise River Greenbelt is an especially beautiful place for retirees to stroll and enjoy their gorgeous new town.

Plus, Boise is outdoor activity heaven – skiing, hiking, fishing. There’s something to do all year round in this retiree paradise! 

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Harrisburg, the state capital of Pennsylvania, takes the number three spot on Orestis’ list of up-and-coming retirement towns. Located along the Susquehanna River, Harrisburg offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty. The city has a low cost of living, with housing costs well below the national average.

Harrisburg is also home to several excellent healthcare systems, including Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. Pennsylvania offers some excellent tax breaks for retirees, including that retirement income is nontaxable.

Grand Rapids, Michigan

Grand Rapids, takes the fourth spot on Orestis’ list. The city has a relatively low cost of living and a strong economy, and a ton of culture, food, and nearby natural beauty. 

The city also has an extensive park system and easy access to Lake Michigan beaches – great for visits from the grandkids! Michigan offers some good tax breaks for retirees, including an additional exemption of $1,900 on the state income tax returns of people 65 and older.

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Rounding out Orestis’ top five is Colorado Springs, a city located at the base of the iconic Pikes Peak mountain. It’s stunning! Colorado Springs has a mild climate, plenty of sunshine, and unbeatable natural scenery. Plus, the city has a vibrant downtown area and a growing arts and culture scene.

Colorado Springs is also a hub for outdoor recreation, with opportunities for hiking, biking, golfing, and more. Colorado also offers some tax perks for retirees, including generous deductions for retirement income and no estate or inheritance tax.

Pensacola, Florida

While many people think of cities like Miami or Orlando when considering retiring to Florida, Seamus Nally, CEO of TurboTenant , recommends looking at Pensacola. Located on the Gulf Coast in the Florida Panhandle, Pensacola offers beautiful white sand beaches, a laid-back lifestyle, and a lower cost of living compared to some other parts of the state.

“Everyone knows that Florida is a popular retirement state – it’s vacation-like with beaches for days, plus the cost of living in most Florida cities is lower than the national average,” said Nally. “Pensacola in particular offers great retirement communities but doesn’t quite have the retirement popularity of other cities like Daytona Beach or Sarasota yet.”

Gulf Coast Cities in Florida

Brian Durham, vice president of risk management and managing broker at Realty Group LLC and Realty Group Premier , also recommends several Gulf Coast cities in Florida for retirees. “With its warm weather, beaches, golf courses, and overall generally affordable living Florida is one of the top destinations for retirees,” Durham shared.

He suggests considering Tampa, Fort Myers, and Naples, which all have significant populations of residents over 65. “All these cities have things that make them desirable in different ways, from the theme parks in Tampa [and] the excellent affordability of Fort Myers to the luxury developments of the Blue Zones of the Naples area.”

Atlantic Coast Cities in Florida

For those who prefer the Atlantic side of Florida, Durham recommends cities like Miami and West Palm Beach, which offer gorgeous beaches and top-notch healthcare. However, the higher cost of living might make it more difficult for retirees on a budget.

As a more affordable option on the Atlantic coast, Durham suggests Port St. Lucie. “If you like the outdoors you can’t go wrong there,” he said, citing the city’s excellent golfing and fishing opportunities. Port St. Lucie also has a sizable retiree population, with just over 26% of residents aged 65 and older.

Factors To Consider

Orestis shared that 2024 is the time to look beyond “snowbird” states when it comes to retirement. “People are starting to migrate in new directions beyond just the snowbird states of Florida, Nevada, and Arizona,” he said. “Many of the states rising in popularity are set in the central and mountain time zones. These states are situated inland and are far away from climate challenges we have been watching become more frequent such as hurricanes, floods, wildfires, heatwaves, and drought. They are low-or-no tax states with lower cost of living, offer much for lifestyle, and have strong healthcare systems.”

Orestis says retirees need to consider factors like cost of living (including taxes, housing, essentials, and healthcare), environment (such as climate and potential risks from climate change), and quality of life (including proximity to loved ones, lifestyle and entertainment options, safety, and healthcare access). 

When investigating whether a city is right for them, he suggests asking key questions like: “Will we get more or less out of our money? Will the environment enhance our retirement, and will it remain stable? Will our lifestyle thrive, grow, and extend our health?”

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• Russia Circle Trip: 20 Places To Visit In Moscow And St. Petersburg In 2024

23 Mar 2023

Comprising of palaces, monasteries, cathedrals, museum’s, parks, hills, towers, and galleries, travelers must include these places to visit in Moscow and St. Petersburg in their itinerary for a complete travel experience. Taking you through its modern culture, ancient traditions, and rich historical past, these places to see in Moscow are not just interesting, but are beyond magical.

20 Places To Visit In Moscow And St. Petersburg

Here is a list of places to explore in the beautiful city of Moscow and St. Petersburg on your trip that you might not want to miss. Keep scrolling down and read along:

• Hermitage Museum
• Krestovsky Stadium
• Peterhof Palace
• Pushkin Museum
• Kolomenskoye
• Novospassky Monastery
• Kremlin Armoury
• Sparrow Hills
• Cathedral Of The Archangel
• Diamond Fund
• Losiny Ostrov National Park
• Ostankino Tower
• Grand Kremlin Palace
• Bolshoi Theatre
• Memorial Museum Of Cosmonautics
• Saint Basil’s Cathedral
• Moscow Kremlin

20. Hermitage Museum

Hermitage Museum at St Petersburg is the second-largest art museum in the world, after The Louvre in Paris, France. The establishment was founded in 1764 by Empress Catherine the Great. From Egyptian antiquities, Renaissance art, Dutch and Flemish Baroque art to Neoclassical, Impressionist, Post-Impressionist and modern European fine art – Hermitage Museum artworks are any art-enthusiast’s paradise.

Location: Palace Square, 2, Sankt-Peterburg, Russia, 190000 Timings: 10:30 am – 6:00 pm (Monday closed)

19. Krestovsky Stadium

Named after Sergey Kirov, the stadium was also home to the Zenit Football Club for certain periods in the 1900’s. The Fifa Confederations Cup took place in the Krestovsky Stadium, with several group matches and the final between Germany and Chile taking place at the stadium. The 2018 Fifa World Cup also took place there, when Russia hosted the competition.

Location: Futbol’naya Alleya, 1, Sankt-Peterburg, Russia, 197110 Timings: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

18. Peterhof Palace

One of the most important sites of cultural importance in Russia is the Peterhof Palace. It is a series of palaces and gardens which are located in Peterhof, St Petersburg. One of the best features of the area that catches the eyes of the many tourists who come to visit the area is a 16-metre high cliff. One of the best features of the Palace is the Chesma Hall. The Hall is decorated with painting from the Battle of Chesma, where Russia won a naval victory during the Russo-Turkish war.

Location: Razvodnaya Ulitsa, 2, Sankt-Peterburg, Russia Timings: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm

17. Pushkin Museum

Image Source

If you want to visit one of the best tourist places in Moscow to explore a wide selection of European masterpieces, then you must visit the Pushkin Museum. Here, you can explore The museum is divided into three sections which cover the themes: Byzantine art, the Renaissance, and the Dutch Golden Age. For a collection donated by individuals, you can also visit the Museum of Private Collections.

Location: Ulitsa Volkhonka, 12, Moskva, Russia, 119019 Timings: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm

Must Read: Villas In Moscow: 7 Places That Offer Unparalleled Luxury In The Heart Of Russia

16. Kolomenskoye

Nestled just a few kilometers outside of the city center, Kolomenskoye was once a royal estate which is now converted into a museum-reserve. Overlooking the Moskva River, you will get to gain a plethora of history from this museum. You can take a stroll in the garden at this museum which is one of the top places to visit in Moscow, Russia.

Location: Andropova Ave, 39, Moskva, Russia, 115487 Timings: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm

15. Novospassky Monastery

With attractions like Novospassky Monastery, there is no need to worry as to what to see in Moscow . Dating back to the times of the 14th century, Novospassky Monastery happens to be the first monastery established in the heart of Moscow. Located in the southeastern region, it is one of the must-visit places in Moscow.

Location: Krest’yanskaya Ploshchad’, 10, Moskva, Russia, 115172

Suggested Read: Russia Plans To Open A Luxury Hotel In Space By 2022 Since Earth Is Too Mainstream!

14. Kremlin Armoury

Kremlin Armoury is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Moscow which is located within the premises of Moscow Kremlin. A treasure house in the heart of Moscow, Kremlin Armoury is a unique museum that has put up about 4000 unique and precious belongings from 1851 on display.

Location: The Moscow Kremlin, Moskva, Russia, 125009 Timings: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM (Closed on all public holidays)

Suggested Read: 8 Cities With Best Russia Nightlife; Say It Aloud, “Lights, Vodka, & Russians!”

13. Sparrow Hills

Much famed as the Lenin Hills until 1999, it is a must for every traveler to include a visit to the Sparrow Hills on their Moscow city tour . Standing tall at an elevation of 220 meters, it is the highest viewpoints in the city that rises above the Moskva River. Get atop the hills to enjoy breathtaking views of the Moscow skyline.

Location: Moscow, Russia, 119270

Suggested Read: 15 Interesting Things To Do In Moscow: Trekking, Opera, And More

12. Cathedral Of The Archangel

Perched in between the attractions of Ivan the Great Bell Tower and the great Great Kremlin Palace, this orthodox cathedral in the heart of Moscow and the mighty Archangel Michael is the patron saint of the cathedral. Reflecting the charm of the Italian Renaissance architectural style, this cathedral is built on the site of the original structure which dates back to 1333.

Location: Cathedral Square, Moscow Kremlin, Moscow, Russia, 103073 Timings: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM (Closed on all public holidays)

Suggested Read: The Glass Beach In Russia Turns Empty Beer Bottles Into A Stunning Kaleidoscope Of Colourful Pebbles!

10. Diamond Fund

Image Credit: Shakko for wikipedia

A mine of precious stones, jewelry, Diamond Fund is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Moscow for those whose love for diamonds is limitless. Established by Emperor Peter I of Russia in the year of 1719, this gem of a place resides within the premises of the famous Moscow Kremlin.

Location: Proyezd Proyektiruyemyy 813, Moskva, Russia, 125009 Timings: Friday to Wednesday – 10 AM to 1 PM, and 2 PM to 5:20 PM (Closed on Thursdays)

9. Losiny Ostrov National Park

Of all the Moscow points of interest , Losiny Ostrov National Park offers a perfect amalgamation of nature and wildlife. Often compared to the Pedra Branca State Park in Rio de Janeiro, and the Table Mountain National Park of Cape Town, in terms of its size and grandeur, it is the first-ever national park of the Russian capital wherein one can witness many species of birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles.

Location: Poperechny Prosek, 1G, Moscow 107014, Russia

Suggested Read: Trans Siberian Railway: World’s Longest Rail Network That Crosses 8 Time Zones Across 9300 Kms!

8. Ostankino Tower

Standing tall at a height of 1,772 feet, Ostankino Tower is famous for being the only free-standing structure in the whole of Europe. Apart from being the eleventh high-rising structures of the world, the observation deck at Ostankino Tower is the place to be for those who wish to relish the best views of Moscow’s skyline.

Location: Akademika Koroleva St, 15, Moskva, Russia, 127427 Timings: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 9 PM

7. Grand Kremlin Palace

Established in the year of 1849, Great or Grand Kremlin Palace is one of those places to visit in Moscow that will leave you beyond astonished. Constructed beautifully and with a great eye for detail, the intricate decor inside the Grand Kremlin Palace reflects the pure charm of the Revival architecture in Russian that blends perfectly with the architectural style of Byzantine Revival.

Location: Moscow Kremlin, Moscow 103073, Russia

Suggested Read: 19 Cool And Unusual Things To Do In Russia That You’ve Never Heard Before!

Image Courtesy: publicdomainpictures.net

What Pragati Maidan is to Delhi, VDNKh is for Moscow. Being one of the popular Moscow sightseeing places , VDNKh or Vystavka Dostizheniy Narodnogo Khozyaystva is a grand trade and exhibition center in Moscow that assures the travelers an experience like none other. Home to numerous palaces, fountains, architectural marvels, arches, and pavilions, there will never be a dull moment on your visit to VDNKh during your trip to Moscow .

Location: Prospekt Mira, 119, Moskva, Russia, 129223 Timings: Monday to Sunday – 24 Hours

5. Bolshoi Theatre

Image Credit: DmitriyGuryanov for wikipedia

For the lovers of art, and culture, Bolshoi Theatre is the place to be for them to witness one of the finest live performances of opera and ballet performances. Famous for featuring a neoclassical facade, Bolshoi Theatre is one of the renowned landmarks of the city.

Location: Theatre Square, 1, Moskva, Russia, 125009

Suggested Read: Moscow In Winter: 10 Things To Do In The City That Holds To The Key To Russia’s Past

4. Memorial Museum Of Cosmonautics

Striking, unique, and aiming to touch the sky, the Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is one of the best Moscow tourist sites which the travelers cannot afford to miss. Educating the visitors about the significant part of Russia’s history in the domain of space, it is a strict no-no to miss out on visiting the Museum of Cosmonautics when in the city.

Location: Prospekt Mira, 111, Moskva, Russia, 129223 Timings: Thursdays & Saturdays – 10 AM to 9 PM; Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, & Sundays – 10 AM to 7 PM; Closed on Mondays

3. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Considered to be one of the top places to visit in Moscow , Saint Basil’s Cathedral is also famed as the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed amongst the locals. Being one of the crucial landmarks of Moscow located in the heart of Red Square, the cathedral dates back to the times of 16th century. Serving as a visual treat to the travelers, it happens to be one of the most-captured attractions in Moscow.

Location: Krasnaya Square, 2, Moscow 109012, Russia

Suggested Read: The List Of Top 10 Places Travelers Are Eager To Visit Is Out!

2. Red Square

Separating the royal citadel of Kremlin from the ancient merchant quarter of Kitai-gorod, Red Square is one of the most interesting places in Moscow . Bearing the weight of Russia’s history to a great extent, Red Square serves not just as an attraction but as the heart, soul, and symbol of the whole country.

Location: Krasnaya Ploshchad, Moscow, Russia

1. Moscow Kremlin

If all the attractions serve as members of the city, then Moscow Kremlin serves as the home in which all these tourist sites reside. Encompassing of almost all the famous sightseeing attractions, the royal residence of the President of Russia, the Moscow Kremlin is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Moscow . Offering breathtaking views of River Moskva and located at the heart of the city, it is a must for everyone to explore this fortified complex once in their lifetime.

Location: Moscow, Russia, 103073 Timings: Friday to Wednesday – 10 AM to 5 PM; Closed on Thursday

How To Get There

Air Astana has resumed daily operations, and with the launch of 2 additional flights starting 2nd September 2019, they will now be operating 11 times a week offering even more onward connections. You can now make the most of this special offer by Air Astana and plan your trip to the biggest metropolitan city of Kazakhstan. Transit passengers can also visit Nur – Sultan and Almaty hassle – free in their journey with Kazakhstan’s 72-hour transit visa-free regime . You can now also apply for an e-visa before traveling to Kazakhstan. The process is very simple!

Explore Two Countries In One Trip

There is good news for all transiting passengers. With Air Astana’s 1$ Stopover Holiday Package, you can enjoy a one-night stay in Almaty or Astana starting at just 1$ for the first night. Simply pay online and you will receive instant confirmation for your Stopover Holiday Package with Air Astana . The package includes a one-night stay in 3-4 star hotel, buffet breakfast, and airport transfers. What more could you possibly need!

Further Read: 101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30

While these are some of the famous places to visit in Moscow and St.Petersburg, this is just the beginning of what this incredible city has to offer. Hence, make sure you include these Moscow attractions and St. Petersburg sights to your bucket list while you gear up to fulfill your dream on your sojourn to Russia !

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 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 Places To Visit In Moscow

What is the best time to visit Moscow?

April to August happens to be the best time to visit Moscow when the summer season lets the tourists make the most of their journey.

What is that one experience that one must not miss out when planning a trip to Russia?

A ride on the Trans-Siberian Railway that crosses eight time zones across 9300 kms is one of the most unique experiences that one should not miss out on their trip to Moscow!

What are some of the must-visit attractions in Moscow?

Moscow Kremlin, Saint Basil’s Cathedral, Red Square, and Bolshoi Theatre are some of the famous must visit attractions in Moscow.

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Singer-songwriter Taylor Swift released her 11th album, “The Tortured Poets Department,” on April 19, and the response to it just about broke the internet (along with a streaming record).

During all of the excitement, we unearthed a trove of Press Herald photos of Swift from when she visited Kennebunkport in 2010 for a special outdoor performance.

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