7 Underappreciated Towns to Visit in the Rockies
North America’s largest mountain range, the Rockies, has inspired generations of artists, musicians, and thrill-seekers - all captivated by the breathtaking grandeur of the towering peaks that stretch 4,800 km from Canada in the north to the southern United States. While we refer to them as a single entity, the Rocky Mountains actually encompass more than 100 different mountain ranges. They were grouped together when the Rocky Mountain National Park was formed in 1915. With the park came the tourists, launching a thriving industry that now welcomes around 4 million visitors to the park every year. Despite their popularity, there are still many hidden gems in the Rocky Mountains — quaint small towns where you can experience all the adventures of the mountains while avoiding the crowds.
Ouray, Colorado
Known as the Switzerland of America, Ouray, in southwest Colorado, is a beautiful alpine town perched 7,800 ft above sea level. It’s located in a deep bowl between rugged peaks, meaning that you get a great view of the mountains from any street in town. Ouray is in the San Juan Mountains, one of the steepest ranges in the Rockies, making it ideal for winter skiers and summer hikers. The unique topography of the area makes it a paradise for outdoor adventurers. Try ice climbing, mountaineering, and rock climbing, or see the sights from horseback on an equine tour. Don’t forget to visit Box Cañon Falls Nature Center to see an incredible 285 ft waterfall cascade into a quartzite canyon deep in the rock. After a day on the slopes, relax in the Ouray hot springs. Said to have healing powers, the waters opened to the public in 1927.
Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Nestled on the shores of Steamboat Lake and surrounded by the jagged skyline of the Rockies, Steamboat Springs has it all - jaw-dropping scenery and alpine activities for all the family. Take a fishing cruise on Steamboat Lake and enjoy the scenery from the water, looking out for local landmarks, Sand Mountain, and Hahn’s Peak. The Yampa River runs through the town and is a fun spot for tubing in the summer. To explore on land, visit Pearl Lake State Park for trails that wind along the shoreline and across ridges with stunning views of Farwell Mountain. Take a well-earned rest after a busy day on the trails at Strawberry Park Hot Springs, where you can bathe in 104-degree mineral water in a serene oasis surrounded by forested hills.
Whitefish, Montana
The gateway to Glacier National Park, Whitefish is a charming mountain community close to the Canadian border. It’s known as a premier skiing destination thanks to the excellent winter conditions on Big Mountain, which overlooks the town. In summer, you can enjoy the mountains on horseback or head for one of the town’s many stunning water features. Whitefish Lake, Whitefish River, and Flathead Lake all provide scenic spots perfect for rafting, kayaking, and fishing. Downtown, you’ll find quaint boutiques and funky art galleries where you can pick up the perfect souvenir. Check out the Bonsai Brewing Project for locally crafted small-batch ales and hearty pub grub.
Twin Lakes, Colorado
Often eclipsed by its neighboring town, Leadville, Twin Lakes in Colorado is a must-see destination in its own right. Both are part of the Top of Rockies National Scenic and Historic Byway, a route that meanders around sheltered valleys, glacial lakes, and alpine peaks - all above 9,000 ft. Twin Lakes is a small village, tucked into the mountains, where you can step back in time to visit an 1800s general store, blacksmiths, and schoolhouse. For more history, head south to Interlaken Historic Resort. Built in the 1870s as a luxury hotel, this charming property sits on more than 2,000 acres of beautiful landscaped gardens. If you’re feeling very adventurous, take on Mt Elbert, Colorado’s highest peak. Too high? Hike the Colorado Trail and Continental Divide Trail for a more relaxed but beautiful stroll around the lake.
Ketchum, Idaho
Ketchum, Idaho, is a former mining town that became a popular resort community in the 1920s and 30s. Ketchum is the home of the legendary Wagon Days Parade which takes place every year around Labour Day and includes the original Lewis Ore wagons from the late 1800s. Don’t worry if you miss the parade, you can still call into the Ore Wagon Museum and historical Bonning Cabin to learn more about Ketchum’s Wild West past. Ketchum’s neighboring town, Sun Valley, is a world-famous skiing resort where skiers of all abilities can catch some powder while enjoying the beauty of the mountains. And when the sun goes down on the slopes, look up. In 2018, Ketchum was officially designated as a Dark Sky community for its dazzling, starlit skies.
Salida, Colorado
A small, historic town in central Colorado, Salida is at the heart of the Rockies on the banks of the Arkansas River and in the shadow of Monarch Mountain. The town began as a stagecoach stop in the 1800s and later became a busy station on the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad. Downtown Salida is the largest historic district in Colorado, with incredibly preserved architecture reminiscent of the heyday of the Old West. Downtown Salida is also home to Salida Whitewater Park, which runs through the town and includes riverside restaurants, a hiking trail, and picnic area. Visit in summer to catch the annual FIBArk WhitewaterFestival, which features races through the rapids, live music, local art displays, and tasty food.
Taos, New Mexico
Right down at the southern end of the Rockies, in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, you’ll find Taos — a charming town in New Mexico’s high desert. If you think the Rocky Mountains are all about skiing, think again. In Taos, you’ll find sun-drenched plazas, classic Spanish architecture, and rugged desert canyons. The town’s most well-known attraction is the ancient village of Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built over a thousand years ago. You’ll also want to see the Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument, a stunning natural beauty perfect for hiking, biking, rafting, and fishing. Check out the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, which rises 650 ft above the river and offers incredible views of the gorge below. You’ve probably see the iconic bridge before, it’s appeared in many movies including Natural Born Killers and Terminator Salvation.
Rocky Mountain High
Author James Michener called the Rockies ‘mountains to be loved,’ but there’s lots to love in their small towns, too! These welcoming alpine communities are alive with adventure, history, and natural splendor. Visit the hot springs in Ouray, ride the rapids in Salida, and saddle up like a cowboy in Whitefish. From the northern snow-capped peaks of Colorado to the dusty red canyons of New Mexico, there’s a whole world to explore in the Rockies. Step off the beaten track and discover the magic of the mountains in these idyllic small towns.
