Sometimes, during the warm summer months, I think about the arrival of cooler days and how much I enjoy being outside without the sweltering heat and humidity. Then, I calmly remember that any time of the year is perfect for a trip to the mountains. Whether it’s winter for snow sports, fall for foliage, spring for blooming trees and wildflowers, or summer for camping, hiking, cycling, and other outdoor adventures, I know there will always be a cool breeze and calm, peaceful evening watching the sun go down. Don’t get me wrong, the beach is great, but the mountains make me feel like I’m home.

Here are five marvelous mountain escapes for your next family vacation:

White Mountains National Forest in New Hampshire

When it comes to mountain escapes, I have to start with the very one I grew up near! White Mountains National Forest covers over 750,000 acres, mainly in New Hampshire with just a little section in Maine, and is, quite simply, one of my favorite places in the world. Get out and hike one of the many trails, take the Mount Washington Cog Railway, or drive along the Kancamagus Scenic Byway (“the Kanc,” as everyone I know calls it). As for where to stay, I’d stay in the gateway town of Littleton. Don’t miss the world’s largest candy counter at Chutter’s!

For more, check out our “Lakes & Mountains of New Hampshire” episode

Telluride, Colorado

Once a rustic and rough mining town, Telluride, Colorado, has matured into a unique and inviting resort area that attracts adventurers of all ages. Located in the shadow of the San Juan Mountains, it’s known for great hiking, fishing, and live music. You’ll want to stay at The Peaks Resort, which has an indoor/outdoor pool and waterslide and is very family-friendly. To see the panoramic beauty of the area, ride the Mountain Village.

Gondola up 9,500 feet! Don’t forget to save time to visit Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado’s longest free-falling waterfall. And if you want to enjoy some live music, plan your visit to the Telluride Bluegrass Festival in June!

Lauterbrunnen Valley in the Swiss Alps

I mean, what country does mountain getaways better than Switzerland? The Swiss Alps cover over 60% of the country, so you’ll have a hard time visiting without enjoying some postcard-worthy, snowcapped mountain views. I personally loved spending time in Lauterbrunnen Valley. Through the region, you’ll find countless waterfalls as well as idyllic meadows and hiking trails for all fitness levels. Stop into Schynige Platte Botanical Alpine Garden to appreciate the area’s native flowers and plants. Another fun option is to rent a bike with Imoden Bike and cycle through the valley!

Where to stay depends on what you want. The town of Lauterbrunnen gets quite busy, so if you want something quieter, look for the more remote inns and bed and breakfasts.

For more, check out our “Switzerland” episode

Adirondacks, New York

If you haven’t spent at least one day in the Adirondacks, you need to start planning for a trip! Taking up almost a third of the entire land area of New York State, this area is known for its forests, rolling hills, farmland, charming towns, valleys, lakes, and rivers galore. I find campers especially love this place since there are over 500 campsites, many spread over the 48 islands on Lake George, Indian Lake, and Saranac Lake. For something a little more upscale, check out Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa in Lake Placid. As for my favorite hike? The loop trail up Mount Jo’s summit!

Viñales Valley, Cuba

You don’t necessarily think of mountains when you think about Cuba, but Viñales Valley may be one of the most enchanting regions in this island country. Located in the Sierra de los Órganos mountains, the valley is surrounded by karst formations and a lush jungle landscape. The main town of Viñales is small and filled with colorful one-story houses. Trek out to caves and cigar farms during the day and then clean up and head out for live music and dancing in the evening. At least one of your dinners should be spent at Finca Agroecológica El Paraíso, where the food is as incredible as the founder’s story! Special note: Americans can travel to Cuba with a valid U.S. passport and a Cuban Tourist Card (visa) required for entry and for specific reasons, including family visits, official business, journalistic activities, professional research, educational activities, people-to-people exchanges, religious activities, and humanitarian projects. Visit the U.S. Embassy in Cuba for updated information and travel advisories.

Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina

Is there one place on this list that seems to have it all? If so, it would be Asheville, one of the hippest places in America. Nestled within the Blue Ridge Mountains, this city was once nicknamed the Paris of the South for its bohemian culture. Think great Southern food, cool bars and distilleries, and all sorts of places that celebrate artisan crafts. And, of course, I can’t talk about Asheville and not mention the glorious Biltmore Estate! While the mansion is an epic display of Gilded Age opulence, I loved exploring its massive gardens even more. Special note: Since the devastating flood of 2024, Asheville has come a long way, with many parts currently open for business and eager to welcome back travelers.

For more, check out our “Asheville, North Carolina” episode

The Lake District in England

There’s a reason nearly all the Romantics came to the Lake District to pen their greatest hits. Dreamy landscapes made of craggy peaks, shimmering lakes, and stretches of green as far as the eye can see… Find a cozy inn to stay and spend your mornings hiking around the different paths. Bring a pen and a notebook just in case you’re hit with some literary inspiration. You never know what your words will be worth ;)!

Big Sky, Montana

While Big Sky shines come winter (after all, it sees 400 inches of snow yearly), it’s just as beautiful once all that snow melts and those 6,000+ skiable acres turn green. Book a vacation rental for something more intimate than the hotels and resorts, and then enjoy all the activities you can’t quite do in winter. Try mountain biking, ziplining, and whitewater rafting for the more adventurous! Try horseback riding, guided hikes, and scenic lift rides for those looking for a little more calm. 

Da Lat in Vietnam’s Central Highlands

Where do locals in southern Vietnam go to beat the heat? Da Lat in Vietnam’s Central Highlands! One of the few inland provinces in the country, the highlands are situated on different plateaus that make up parts of the Annamite Range. Temperatures tend to be cooler year round, and come summer, it makes for a cozy escape when the rainy season hits. Opt for one of the many bed and breakfasts around the town and ask them to help you arrange a driver for your trip. When the weather is sunny, check out the different landmarks that make the area so popular, like the tea fields at Cau Dat Farm, Dalat Railway Station, and the quirky heads at Clay Tunnel. Whatever you do, try to catch the sunset from Cheo Veooo Cafe. 

Stowe, Vermont

If you love the outdoors and playing in the sunshine without all the fuss, head to Stowe, Vermont. An amazing 5.3-mile trail runs through town and crosses the river 11 times! Plan your trip around July 4th, and you’ll be able to catch the old-fashioned parade and village festival. For even more outdoor adventures, try biking, canoeing, and zip-lining. And, of course, Sound of Music fans know that this is where the Trapp family wound up after escaping Austria. Stay at their lodge during your trip!

Lyngseidet in the Lyngen Alps, Norway

While northern Norway gets the most attention during winter for its northern lights, you’re missing out if you totally skip it come summer! About 2 ½ hours from Tromsø are the absolutely stunning Lyngen Alps. Stay at a rental in the town of Lyngseidet to be right on a fjord and spend your free time hiking one of the many trails. The best part? Midnight sun means you do not need to start your hike early to make sure you’re back before dark! A particularly beautiful (and relatively flat but rocky) hike is to Blåvatnet, a stunning glacial lake. If you can brave the cold, pack a swimsuit and jump in!

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

If you have kids to entertain, then the Great Smoky Mountains and Pigeon Forge make a lot of sense for many reasons. We all know the key to keeping kids happy is to get them tired! One of the best things about Pigeon Forge is the dozens of things to do, specifically designed to keep you and your kids busy for days.  Set up your brood at The Inn at Christmas Place for a special treat. Not only is it fun and Christmas-themed, but kids of all ages and adults love it for its unique experience, like movies by the pool and Singing Santa. While enjoying your stay in Pigeon Forge, check out the Soul of Motown, Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster, and Dollywood. Be sure to head over to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and hike up to Laurel Falls, an 80-foot-high waterfall that is one of the most popular spots in the area.

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