Mountain living has always called to me, but it wasn’t until I spent last summer exploring North America’s most stunning ranges that I truly understood why. There’s something magical about waking up to misty peaks and ending your day watching alpenglow paint the mountains gold. And the best part? These places offer way more than just gorgeous views.
After experiencing the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and city amenities in places like Bend, Oregon, and Asheville, North Carolina, I discovered why the best places in the mountains are drawing both adventure seekers and professionals alike. From world-class restaurants to endless trails right outside your door, these 12 mountain towns prove you really can have it all. Ready to elevate your lifestyle (pun totally intended)?
Most Livable Places in the Mountains
Looking for the best places in the mountains? Experience the vibrant arts scene and outdoor adventures in Asheville, North Carolina. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Boone, North Carolina, a haven for hiking and skiing. Escape to Crestline, California, offering a peaceful mountain retreat near Lake Gregory. Discover the charm of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, known for its Victorian architecture and natural springs. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or small-town charm, these are some of the top mountain destinations.
- Best for arts and culture: Asheville, North Carolina
- Best for college town atmosphere: Boone, North Carolina
- Best for lakeside living: Crestline, California
- Best for Victorian charm: Eureka Springs, Arkansas
- Best for access to national parks: Gatlinburg, Tennessee
- Best for seaside and mountain living: Homer, Alaska
- Best for winter sports: Lake Placid, New York
- Best for affordability: Leadville, Colorado
- Best for outdoor enthusiasts: Ogden, Utah
- Best for lakes and skiing: South Lake Tahoe, California
- Best for small-town feel: Stowe, Vermont
- Best for scenic beauty: Telluride, Colorado
1. Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is where artistic energy meets outdoor adventure. This vibrant mountain city is known for its thriving arts scene, craft breweries, and breathtaking scenery. The historic Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in America, adds a touch of grandeur, while the lively River Arts District showcases the work of local creators.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Blue Ridge Parkway, Pisgah National Forest, and countless hiking trails leading to waterfalls and panoramic vistas. Asheville’s downtown is packed with independent shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and live music venues, giving it a unique, bohemian charm.
With four distinct seasons, a strong sense of community, and an ever-growing expat population, Asheville offers the perfect balance of culture and nature. Whether you’re sipping locally roasted coffee or hiking to Craggy Gardens, this mountain town makes everyday life feel like a retreat.
2. Boone, North Carolina
With its stunning mountain views and youthful energy, Boone is a college town with an adventurous spirit. Home to Appalachian State University, this charming town blends historic character with modern vibrancy, offering a tight-knit community and endless outdoor recreation.
The Blue Ridge Parkway winds through Boone, providing breathtaking overlooks and hiking trails. Residents enjoy kayaking on the New River, skiing at nearby resorts, and exploring Grandfather Mountain’s famous Mile High Swinging Bridge. Boone’s downtown area is filled with cozy cafés, live music venues, and locally-owned shops, giving it a welcoming, small-town feel.
With its affordable cost of living, thriving arts scene, and four-season climate, Boone is an ideal place for those who want an active lifestyle in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a student, or someone looking for a slower pace, Boone is a mountain town that truly has it all.
- Read Next: Best Places to Live in North Carolina
3. Crestline, California
Tucked into the San Bernardino Mountains, Crestline is a peaceful lakeside retreat that feels a world away from the hustle of Southern California. At its heart is Lake Gregory, a stunning alpine lake where residents enjoy kayaking, fishing, and scenic walking trails.
Unlike its more touristy neighbors, Crestline has a laid-back, small-town vibe. The community is friendly and welcoming, with local shops, diners, and farmers’ markets adding to its charm. Outdoor lovers can hike through the lush forests of the San Bernardino National Forest, while winter brings snowy landscapes perfect for cozy cabin living.
With its affordable housing, proximity to Los Angeles, and tranquil mountain setting, Crestline is perfect for those looking to escape city life without sacrificing convenience. Whether you prefer relaxing by the lake or exploring hidden hiking trails, Crestline offers a slice of mountain paradise.
- Read Next: Best Places to Live in California
4. Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Tucked into the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs is a town frozen in time, known for its Victorian architecture, winding streets, and artistic spirit. Its entire downtown district is on the National Register of Historic Places, with charming boutiques, galleries, and cafés lining its picturesque streets.
Beyond its historic appeal, Eureka Springs offers a thriving arts scene and a close-knit community. The town hosts year-round festivals, live music events, and artisan markets, making it a cultural hub in the mountains. Just outside town, outdoor enthusiasts can explore the trails of Lake Leatherwood, float down the Kings River, or visit the famous Thorncrown Chapel, a breathtaking glass church set in the forest.
With its low cost of living, stunning scenery, and strong sense of community, Eureka Springs is a dream for those who crave small-town charm with a creative twist.
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- Read Next: Best Places to Live in Arkansas
5. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
As the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg blends scenic beauty with an energetic mountain-town atmosphere. With three entrances to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it’s a paradise for hikers, wildlife lovers, and outdoor adventurers.
Despite being a popular tourist destination, Gatlinburg maintains a warm, welcoming community. Its bustling downtown is filled with local shops, moonshine distilleries, and Southern-style eateries, while attractions like Ober Mountain Ski Resort and Anakeesta keep things lively year-round. The town also hosts seasonal festivals, from fall foliage celebrations to winter holiday markets.
Living here means waking up to misty mountain views, easy access to world-class hiking, and a strong sense of Appalachian heritage. If you want a town with four seasons, endless outdoor activities, and plenty of Southern charm, Gatlinburg is a top choice for mountain living at its best.
- Read Next: Hidden Gems in Tennessee
6. Homer, Alaska
Where rugged mountains meet the sea, Homer offers one of the most breathtaking settings in Alaska. Located on Kachemak Bay, this small town is known as the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World”, but there’s much more to love here than just the catch of the day.
With snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and abundant wildlife, Homer is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Residents spend their days kayaking through fjords, hiking scenic trails, or spotting bald eagles along the shoreline. The town itself has a thriving arts community, with galleries, live music venues, and artisan shops lining the Homer Spit, a narrow strip of land that extends into the bay.
Though winters can be harsh, Homer’s tight-knit community, stunning scenery, and self-sufficient lifestyle make it one of the most unique and rewarding mountain towns to call home.
- Read Next: Best Places to Live in Alaska
7. Lake Placid, New York
Famous for hosting two Winter Olympics, Lake Placid is a paradise for outdoor lovers nestled in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains. Known for its crystal-clear lakes, rugged peaks, and endless recreation, this mountain town offers year-round adventure.
In winter, Whiteface Mountain boasts some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the East, while frozen Mirror Lake becomes a hub for ice skating and dog sledding. Summer brings hiking, kayaking, and scenic drives through the High Peaks region. The town itself is charming, with boutique shops, cozy cafés, and farm-to-table restaurants lining Main Street.
With a close-knit community, excellent schools, and a strong economy, Lake Placid is perfect for those who love an active lifestyle in a stunning alpine setting. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or enjoying the fall foliage, life in Lake Placid is as beautiful as it is exciting.
- Read Next: Best Places to Live in New York
8. Leadville, Colorado
Surrounded by towering peaks and alpine lakes, Leadville is a hidden gem in the Colorado Rockies. Once a booming mining town, it has transformed into a haven for outdoor lovers and history buffs alike.
The town’s colorful Victorian architecture and historic saloons give it a unique Old West charm, while the surrounding wilderness offers year-round adventure. In summer, residents hike and bike along the Mineral Belt Trail or fish in Turquoise Lake, while winter brings backcountry skiing and cozy cabin retreats. Unlike its glitzy resort-town neighbors, Leadville remains affordable, welcoming, and deeply connected to its rugged roots.
With its tight-knit community, stunning mountain views, and adventurous spirit, Leadville is perfect for those who want authentic Colorado living without the Aspen price tag. If you’re looking for a laid-back mountain town with a rich history and endless outdoor activities, Leadville might be perfect for you.
9. Ogden, Utah
Where historic charm meets modern adventure, Ogden is a dynamic mountain city that balances outdoor thrills with urban convenience. Located at the base of the Wasatch Mountains, this city offers easy access to world-class skiing, mountain biking, and hiking, all while maintaining an affordable cost of living compared to Salt Lake City.
Winter sports enthusiasts flock to nearby Snowbasin and Powder Mountain, both offering top-tier skiing without the massive crowds. In warmer months, residents explore the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, kayak down the Ogden River, or relax in the vibrant Historic 25th Street District, home to trendy bars, farm-to-table restaurants, and local art galleries.
With its affordable housing, strong job market, and thriving outdoor scene, Ogden is a hidden gem for those who want mountain living with a city vibe. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just love scenic beauty, Ogden has something for everyone.
- Read Next: Best Places to Live in Utah
10. South Lake Tahoe, California
Where towering pines meet crystal-clear waters, South Lake Tahoe offers the ultimate alpine-meets-lakeside lifestyle. Straddling the California-Nevada border, this town is a four-season paradise, perfect for those who crave adventure and natural beauty.
In winter, the Heavenly Mountain Resort provides epic skiing with panoramic lake views, while summer invites boating, paddleboarding, and hiking in Emerald Bay State Park. The town’s lively nightlife, eclectic dining scene, and vibrant music festivals make it more than just a nature escape—it’s a social hub, too.
While housing prices are higher due to its popularity, South Lake Tahoe’s stunning scenery, thriving tourism industry, and strong sense of community make it well worth it. If you dream of waking up to mountain views and spending your days exploring pristine wilderness, this is the place to be.
11. Stowe, Vermont
A classic New England ski town, Stowe is where quaint charm meets world-class outdoor recreation. Nestled in the Green Mountains, this picturesque village is best known for Stowe Mountain Resort, offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the East.
Beyond the slopes, Stowe shines year-round. In the summer, the Stowe Recreation Path is perfect for cycling and walking, while fall transforms the region into a leaf-peeping paradise. The town itself is postcard-perfect, with white-steepled churches, historic inns, and cozy cafés serving maple-infused treats.
Despite its popularity as a tourist destination, Stowe maintains a tight-knit, welcoming community. With top-rated schools, scenic beauty, and a slower pace of life, it’s a dream for those seeking a peaceful yet active mountain lifestyle. Whether you’re carving down the slopes or enjoying a local craft beer by the fireplace, Stowe is pure mountain magic.
- Read Next: Best Places to Live in Vermont
12. Telluride, Colorado
Tucked into a dramatic box canyon in the San Juan Mountains, Telluride is a breathtakingly beautiful mountain town with an artsy, adventurous soul. Once a booming mining town, it’s now known for world-class skiing, outdoor festivals, and a tight-knit community.
Winter brings legendary powder days at Telluride Ski Resort, while summer offers hiking through wildflower-covered meadows and mountain biking along rugged trails. The town itself is as charming as its setting, with colorful Victorian homes, historic saloons, and a free gondola connecting downtown to Mountain Village. Events like the Telluride Film Festival and Bluegrass Festival keep the cultural scene lively year-round.
Though real estate prices are high, Telluride’s untouched beauty, active lifestyle, and warm community make it worth it. If you want a secluded mountain retreat with an artistic spirit and endless adventure, Telluride is second to none.
- Read Next: Best Places to Live in Colorado
