The Best Small Towns in The Rocky Mountains

The Rocky Mountains, often referred to as ‘The Rockies’ is the largest mountain range in North America. Spanning roughly 3,000 miles, the Rockies stretch from Canada to New Mexico, passing through Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and Utah along the way. Throughout those states travelers with a passion for outdoor exploration will find an abundance of small mountain towns perfect for a weekend getaway. Whether you’re looking for scenic waterfall hikes, chances to go rock climbing, or rugged mountain passes perfect for off-roading–these small towns in the rocky mountains have you covered. So lace up those hiking boots and be sure to pack your camera because the mountains are waiting for you.

Pocatello, Idaho

Pocatello, Idaho is a charming mountain town offering travelers a mix of museums, family-friendly activities, and beautiful outdoor spaces. Historically, the town was known as the "Gateway to the Northwest,” because of its connection to the Oregon Trail. While in Pocatello, visitors can explore local museums including the Idaho Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Clean. The Museum of Clean, in particular, is a unique experience that claims to be a “complex of excitement, education and inspiration for the whole family.” After a few hours of educational fun, head outdoors and explore Zoo Idaho. While here visitors can see everything from big bears and wild cats to adorable raccoons and chickens. Other outdoor areas worth visiting include the Ross Park Aquatic Complex and Simplot Square.

Park City, Utah

Park City, Utah is a bustling mountain town offering visitors the perfect mix of thrilling outdoor adventures and luxury relaxation. One of the town's biggest claims to fame includes the popular Western drama series, Yellowstone. The hit TV show filmed several scenes in Park City and has been called, “the largest show that has ever come to the state of Utah." Because of Park City’s proximity to Salt Lake City, the town is also well known for the 2002 Winter Olympics. During a visit to Park City, travelers can explore the Utah Olympic Park which was built specifically for the 2002 games. Here, enjoy rides like the summer bobsled, the discovery course, and the popular alpine slide.

In the winter months, head to Park City Mountain for a few hours of skiing and snowboarding. For something more low key, head to the Park City Museum where travelers can dig deeper into the town's past. Finally, after all that exploration, try relaxing at a spa in town. While there are many to choose from, the spa at Hotel Park City is among the best.

Jackson, Wyoming

Over 250 miles from Park City, travelers will find the peaceful town of Jackson, Wyoming. Beloved for its proximity to the Gros Ventre and Teton mountain ranges as well as Yellowstone National Park–Jackson is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. During your visit be sure to check out Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Fun in any season–the resort offers scenic tram rides, a bike park, rock climbing, aerial ropes courses, white water rafting, and of course–skiing and snowboarding.

Another wonderful outdoor area in Jackson is the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Center. Here, visitors can embark on long hikes and scenic drives, enjoy rock climbing, fishing, and participate in indigenous art programs. Speaking of art, travelers can enjoy a mix of art and wildlife at the National Museum of Wildlife Art where lifesize animal sculptures line the outdoor trails. While here visitors will also have a good view of the nearby National Elk Refuge.

Telluride, Colorado

When it comes to the Rocky Mountains, you can’t beat the state of Colorado. And Telluride, Colorado is a mountain town through and through. Best known for its “world-class skiing” and “stunning ambiance,” Telluride is a hot spot for both winter and summer recreation. From offroading to breathtaking waterfalls, travelers won’t want to spend any time indoors during a Telluride summer trip.

Start your visit off by hiking the Bridal Veil Trail or the Bear Creek Trail. Both hikes are ranked easy-moderate and both have towering waterfalls to admire at the end. Those with plenty of experience driving jeeps and traversing off-road trails will want to explore the popular Black Bear Pass. The mountain pass sits 12,844 feet above sea level and offers unbeatable views for those who reach the summit. Those who aren’t interested in offroading can enjoy a bird's eye view from the town’s gondola ride. The Gondola connects Telluride and its sister town, Mountain Village, giving riders access to hiking trails, and ski slopes in both areas.

Crested Butte, Colorado

Crested Butte–dubbed the wildflower capital of Colorado–is another popular mountain town with plenty of fun things to see and do. Plant enthusiasts hoping to catch a glimpse of Crested Butte’s famous wildflowers should plan their trip for June to mid July when the fields are bursting with color and life. Outside of admiring flowers, visitors can also enjoy activities such as rock climbing walls, scenic chair lift rides, hiking, mountain biking, and winter skiing at the Crested Butte Mountain Resort. Outside of the resort, travelers will find plenty of other hiking opportunities including the Brush Creek Trailhead. Those traveling with kids will also want to stop at The Trailhead Children’s Museum.

Grand Lake, Colorado

Roughly 200 miles from Crested Butte lies the popular town of Grand Lake Colorado. Well known as the “western gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park,” Grand Lake is a haven for picturesque views, swimming, camping, and more. The town is home to Grand Lake–Colorado’s largest natural Lake. Here, visitors can swim, fish, and explore the water by boat. Visitors will also have the chance to explore Rocky Mountain National Park where hiking, rock climbing, overnight backpacking, and wildlife viewing are all on offer. During the winter months activities including snowmobiling, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and cross-country skinning are popular here.

Taos, New Mexico

Finally, Taos, New Mexico is a high desert town surrounded by the stunning Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Although there are plenty of opportunities here for outdoor recreation, the town is best suited to history buffs. During a visit, travelers will find an abundance of local museums and historic sites to explore. Art lovers will want to start with the Taos Art Museum followed by the Harwood Museum of Art. Next, gain a better understanding of life in the 19th century with a visit to Kit Carson House–a national historic landmark featuring New Mexico adobe architecture.

Arguably the biggest draw to this area is Taos Pueblo–a living Native American community featuring adobe buildings that are over 1,000 years old. The community offers guided tours for groups and individuals and is a can’t-miss stop in Taos. Finally, don’t forget to check out The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. Known as “the bridge to nowhere,” the gorge bridge offers visitors breathtaking views of the river 650 feet below.

In Conclusion

From historic towns with breathtaking mountain views and unique museums to luxury resort towns with perfect winter ski hills and scenic chair lift rides, there is a little something for everyone in these small towns. Visitors can chase waterfalls in Telluride, Colorado, or traipse through the Rocky Mountain National Park in Grand Lake. Either way, when North America’s largest mountain range is involved, you’re in for a grand time.