The US has some of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world. From coast to coast, you will find stunning mountain peaks, snow-capped volcanoes, and lush green forests perfect for hiking, camping and exploring.
But what are the best places to go to enjoy these sights? If you love fresh air, nature-filled getaways, and a scenic drive from home, then weekend getaways mountains are what you need. These are US mountain destinations known for their beauty, stunning activities, and ease of access. Thankfully, there are plenty of fantastic mountain getaway spots perfect for an adventurous weekend getaway, as you will find out.
1. Smoky Mountains, Tennessee
The Great Smoky Mountain range stretches from the North Carolina border to the northeast corner of Tennessee. The range is home to some of the most spectacular views in the US – including over 463 species of flowering plants, over 17 different species of fish, and some 50 species of mammals. The entire area is also home to an abundance of wildlife and nature reserves that feature hiking trails, beautiful flora and fauna, and plenty of seasonal events.
This breathtaking piece of nature was named a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its national significance as a protected area. Smoky mountains house a variety of spectacular sites, including the largest and most visited national park in the US (the Great Smoky Mountain National Park). The range also boasts exciting events, such as dazzling fireworks, bluegrass festivals, art and craft shows, and much more.
The Great Smoky Mountains is a hiker’s dream come true – with many miles of hiking trails that snake through the range. Rent your cabin from Tennessee Log Cabins and experience nature in its purest form for the perfect weekend getaways mountains.
2. Lake Hartwell, GA
Lake Hartwell is an artificial lake located in South Carolina and Georgia. With a shoreline of over 156 miles, Lake Hartwell is the fourth largest lake in Georgia and the seventh largest lake in South Carolina.
Called one of the most picturesque lakes in the United States, this body of water boasts more than 300 miles of paved shoreline to explore. Rent your cabin on Lake Hartwell and spend a few days taking advantage of all that this massive body of water has to offer. Lake Hartwell boasts a wide range of water activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, and wakeboarding.
The Altamaha River runs through the southern part of Georgia, draining into the Atlantic Ocean along the coast. This beautiful and scenic river is famous for tubing and canoeing. You could also marvel at the six-acre botanical garden found here with lush greenery.
Lake Hartwell is among the perfect romantic weekend getaway mountains where you can enjoy various outdoor activities. You can go golfing, sailing, jet skiing, and fishing. Other activities to experience her include kayaking, sunbathing, and swimming.
There are various accommodation options to cater to all tastes and budgets. You can choose between a room in a bed & breakfast, a luxury hotel, or condos. A good place you can check in is Quality Inn Hartwell.
3. Estes Park, Colorado
Estes park is another mountain getaway to consider visiting in the United States this weekend. The park is known for its breathtaking scenery and the diversity of species. Great tourist attractions include hiking trails, lakes, waterfalls, fishing areas, elk, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats.
Estes Park is perfect for a romantic weekend getaway as it offers various outdoor fun. Among the activities, you can enjoy are mountain biking, skiing, horseback riding through the trails, scenic drives, and nature walks to learn about the beautiful environment.
Like other mountain getaways in this list of romantic weekend getaways in the United States, Estes Park has many accommodation options. There are bed & breakfasts and lodges with various services, including Wi-Fi connectivity and access to other recreational facilities. Other exciting activities you can try here include a wine tour and the art galleries. Estes park orchestrates a jacuzzi with striking views of the mountains at their inn.
4. Hot Springs, Arkansas
Hot Springs, Arkansas, is the other mountain getaway on our list of romantic weekend getaways in the United States. It is a town in the Ozark Mountains with covered bridges, white water rapids, and hot springs. The city has a lot of natural beauty and history.
The town is best known for its healing power of hot springs, which have brought people here for centuries. The most famous hot spring is the Hilltop Spring, which used to be located in Hot Springs National Park before it was dissolved into Hot Springs Village in the 1960s. But it still maintains its historical identity and attracts many tourists during its short period each year. It is known as “America’s oldest city.”
Hot Springs is also home to some of the United States’ oldest buildings, like the Longfellow House, built around 1832. Hot springs national park is a popular attraction for visitors.
Several trails lead through the park to scenic areas, most notably the spectacular Inner Circle, which offers a breathtaking view of the steam-heated marble spring. There are lots of activities you can enjoy in Hot Springs. These may include soaking in the hot mineral water, soaking in the steam room, or soaking in the whirlpool. You can also go hiking and have a picnic inside the national park.
For some lighthearted fun, a wooden roller coaster called Clifty Falls offers thrilling rides down its steep winding chutes of twisting wood planks through its watery pools. You will observe stunning views of a neat waterfall at the bottom.
5. Sedona, Arizona
Are you looking for scenic drives via gorgeous and picturesque canyons? Sedona in Arizona is among the most impressive weekend getaway mountains to explore in the US. This mountain wonderland sits in the Sonoran Desert, a high-elevation oasis far away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
The deserted canyon is one of the most scenic road trips in Sedona. This journey starts at Red Rock Loop, with its red sandstone walls and canyon vistas. The views along this road range from impressive mountain vistas to hanging valleys and cliffs. You will be amazed by its sculptured rock formations, including natural arches, caverns, and meandering paths.
After exploring desert canyons, you can opt for an aerial view of this desert world by flying down through Grandview Point, which offers a clear look at colorful rocks from the air. For some hiking fun, you can climb up to Devil’s Bridge, a famous place that attracts photographers due to its striking light blue spans.
There are some other attractions you will surely enjoy in this breathtaking weekend getaway:
– A walk through Grotto Canyon Tour combines a walk through colorful rock formations with spotting wildlife like lizards and birds in their natural habitat, as well as listening to bird calls and observing birds soaring above the canyon’s cliffs.
– The incredible Double Arch Trail is a scenic trail that takes you through two large arches. It is also one of James Turrell’s art pieces, and it has been called one of the most beautiful trails in the country.
6. Telluride, Colorado
The other pristine weekend getaway mountains are in Telluride, Colorado. It is a bluebird town with anticipation for its world-famous ski resort and the ice caves on the mountain tops.
There are plenty of other places to visit in Telluride, including the Telluride Mining Company Museum. In this mining museum, you can glimpse the history of mining in America. You could also visit Old Town San Miguel, a colorful tourist attraction with beautiful restaurants and shops.
Other attractions found in this astounding town include:
– The High Line Trail is around 30 feet above ground level, so you must ascend more than 300 steps to reach it. This trail goes around one mile long and provides excellent views of Telluride.
– The mine’s employees built the San Miguel Tunnel in 1859, which was used until 1948, when the employees abandoned it due to structural failure. Its opening has become an event, and people are willing to pay big bucks to ride down its dark tunnel. Added fees apply at Anna’s Keyhole Hot Springs and Red Mountain Wellness Center.
– Other natural attractions include Wheeler Peak, one of Colorado’s most famous vantage points looking out over Telluride, and Point Ives National Wildlife Refuge. It sits on 488 acres of land, providing access to hunting grounds with excellent bird-watching spots.
7. Hanalei, Hawaii
A small town surrounded by 6 miles of ocean, Hanalei is a splendid place for whale watching. The best time to see whales will be between December and March when the Southern Humpback Whales travel through the Channel Islands National Park.
Once you experience the magnificence of these beautiful creatures, you can head to the beach for some surfing lessons or rent a kayak and paddle along the shoreline at low tide. You could also go to Kilauea Lighthouse State Park for some hiking or take a short drive to see Kalaupapa National Historical Park in Kalawao County. Hanalei is among the phenomenal mountain getaways to marvel at in the United States. There are numerous art galleries around town and a plethora of bars and restaurants to check out.
Head to the Hanalei national wildlife refuge and experience diverse wild animals, such as black bears, mountain goats, and wolves! As the name suggests, this refuge is home to most native Hawaiian bird species. Wrap up your itinerary on the dolphin sighting dinner cruises available here.
8. Blue Ridge, Georgia
Suppose you want to experience a serene and picturesque mountain getaway in the Appalachian Mountains, head to Blue Ridge. With a gorgeous view of the Smoky Mountains, relaxing activities like swimming with the dolphins and paddleboarding are just some things you can do here. At the Hite Mine Museum in Blue Ridge, you can experience two centuries of history through artifacts and stories.
Blue Ridge sits along scenic forested trails where bears, deer, and elk roam freely. While most people go to Blue Ridge to be close to nature and appreciate its quietness and beauty, others choose it because of attractive shopping spots like Old Hickory Mall. Blue ridge offers a range of activities, including golf, boating, and hiking. Here you can also enjoy scenic train rides and zip-lining. Many people and tourists love this place because of its pristine environment, low population growth, and ambiance.
9. Park City, Utah
Park City in Utah is among the ideal weekend getaway mountains to explore. This metropolitan area is known for its dramatic views of the iconic Wasatch Mountains. Visitors who indulge in outdoor sports will enjoy Olympic National Park, natural wonders like Panguitch Lake, and Cedar Breaks National Monument. Every year, Park City hosts an internationally known film festival, which showcases numerous movies on a large screen. There are many activities to enjoy here, including winter sports such as sledding, skating, and skiing.
Among the top attractions in Park city are the International Skiing Center, Park City Ice Arena, and Badminton Hall. Marvel at the famous ski slopes of Park City and take a ride on the famous tram for an unforgettable experience. There are numerous resorts and hotels where you can enjoy the diverse cuisines prepared here.
If you are a party person, you will also come across various bars where you can have a good time. Before leaving, visit Stein Eriksen’s winery, where you can taste the best wines in the region. When you plan your next vacation, consider visiting this beautiful city.
10. Bend, Oregon
Bend seemingly has it all. A beautiful and peaceful place where nature is the center of attention. If you are a big fan of outdoor activities, then you will enjoy Bend. You can ski at the freshly constructed Mt. Bachelor ski resort or hike nearby mountains such as Adams and Three Sisters Peaks.
Whether traveling to Bend for business or pleasure, this place has everything you need to make your visit memorable. If you want to work out in a gym without breaking the bank, the Bend Athletic Club offers affordable membership plans for those who want to stay healthy and fit while on the road. Stop by Dickey’s Barbecue Pit for their mouth-watering barbecue ribs and chicken sandwiches, which are perfect for lunch or dinner.
There is no shortage of unique places to eat here, such as Latitude 38 Café & Bistro, for international cuisine and superb service at an affordable price. If your taste buds crave more adventurous food, try food trucks like Sarmiento’s Burritos & Tacos or Baja Fresh Mexican Grill. Before leaving Bend, remember to visit Pioneer Village Museum and Deschutes Historical Museum.
The weekend getaway mountains offer visitors lots of sensational activities to enjoy. These may include hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and fishing. If you are looking for a unique outdoor gathering place, The Crooked Fence Potato Chip Company is a great stop during your time here.
11. Hendersonville, North Carolina
It is also known as the Central North Carolina vacation spot.
Hendersonville is home to great historical sites such as the 1849 City Farm and the Anson County Japanese American Museum. Other than that, there are several other fantastic things to see. The city is full of historical beauty and attractions, which include the Old City Park and the White Oak Battlefield park.
For those who want to enjoy the outdoors, there are a variety of trails, such as the Tea Creek Trail, the Rockfish Gap Trail, and the Longleaf Pine Trail State Park. Hendersonville also has many eateries where visitors enjoy good cuisine at reasonable prices. On weekends, visitors are welcome to stop by Rochester Taproom for their extraordinary culinary delights and a wide variety of craft beers. In addition, it is an excellent place to enjoy live music shows throughout the day.
If you have time to spare, visit nearby Mount Airy’s Haunted Forest for another thrilling adventure while in North Carolina. Other fun and exciting activities you can undertake here include camping in the Pisgah National Forest and participating in Blue Ridge Parkway’s “Bald Rock” climb. You could also visit the nearby Appalachian State University campus and attend the annual Hendersonville Folk Festival. Visit the nearby Sierra Nevada brewery for another great craft beer experience. Hendersonville is ideal for anyone who wants to spend quality time with family and friends.
12. Taos, New Mexico
New Mexico also houses among the best weekend getaway mountains for visitors. Taos Ski Valley in Taos is an unforgettable getaway for snowboarding enthusiasts. The hills stand in the middle of Chama River Canyon, a fantastic location for those who love scenic views. The ski resorts in New Mexico offer snowboarding and skiing thrills that will delight skiers and snowboarders.
Enjoy the views of the pine trees when you go hiking here and other outdoor adventure activities such as camping, fishing, and boating at Lake Taos. Taos also has excellent culinary options that will delight foodies. You will also find great Mexican, Italian, and seafood restaurants here.
Additionally, Taos has an incredible art museum called the Taos Art Museum that you can visit to appreciate the work of amazing artists. Other fantastic activities you can try in Taos include horseback riding, kayaking, and hiking in the mountains. Taos orchestrates extraordinary events that will offer you the best family entertainment. Taos Festivals are stunning for those who love outdoor activities and live music. You can also play golf and enjoy the numerous spa resorts here.
13. Lake Placid, New York
Lake Placid sits in the eastern region of the state of New York. It is a beautiful location that offers excellent opportunities for outdoor fun, including hunting and fishing. You can also enjoy boating, skiing, and hiking in Lake Placid. The resort town of Lake Placid offers fantastic dining options that you may want to try.
Lake Placid also has fun events yearly and an excellent museum that will thrill art lovers. In addition to these activities, Lake Placid is known for its breweries, wineries, and distilleries. Here you can enjoy some incredible beers and wines from Lake Placid’s best breweries and wineries. Lake Placid offers a beautiful experience of nature to nature enthusiasts.
Lake Placid also allows visitors to discover diverse floral arrangements made by local farmers. Visit the Farmer’s market to find these phenomenal arrangements. If you love things to do with art galleries and museums, this is the place to be during the weekend. The town houses various art galleries and museums to satisfy art lovers. The main attraction in Lake Placid is the Olympic Museum.
This museum has informative collections that will refresh you with fun facts about the Olympics. Lake Placid is also home to a beautiful golf course that offers stunning views of the lake. Marvel at the Depot Theater found in Old Depot Train station. It is a great place to enjoy a unique theater experience.
Lake Placid is home to one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the region. The town has a lot of other attractions like the Denali State Park, where you can go camping in the wilds and beautiful surroundings of the park. Lake Placid is also known for its sports enthusiasts, as it hosts several activities, like ice skating on Lake Placid Beach, extreme fishing tournaments, triathlon events, and more..
Wrapping Up
If you are looking for sensational weekend getaways mountains, these are the top places to look in the United States. These places will offer outstanding and stunning sceneries to give you unmatched experiences. These destinations will also give you a great taste of American culture and traditions.
FAQs
What are the prettiest mountains in the USA?
The USA is home to spectacular mountains offering picturesque views. Some of the most photographed mountains include Mt. McKinley, Alaska; Mount Shasta, California; the Great Smoky Mountains, North Carolina; and Mount Baker, Washington.
What city has the best mountains?
The United States has several mountains scattered all over the country. No mountain town would be complete without spectacular ski destinations. Aspen in Colorado has the best mountains in the country. It orchestrates pristine slopes, luxury hotels, and picturesque surrounding views.
What US states have beaches and mountains?
Few cities in the country have both beaches and mountains within their borders. These may include Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Anchorage, Portland, and Oakland.
