7 Serene Towns in The Rockies for a Weekend Retreat

Stretching across the US into Canada, the Rockies are a mountain range that could be considered the most beautiful in North America. From towering, snow-capped peaks to valleys with crystal blue lakes, the Rockies have no shortage of adventures to be had. With various accommodation options, including secluded campgrounds, RV lots, and rustic wooden lodges, traverse the Rockies during all four seasons and embrace your wild side.

Libby, Montana

Located on the Kootenay River, Libby is a small mountain town in upstate Montana. It caters heavily to adventure enthusiasts, with hundreds of trails for mountain biking, hiking, cross-country skiing, and wildlife sightseeing. Float down the calmer portions of the Kootenay River, or kick it up a notch and go rafting. Journey to the Kootenai National Forest for some fishing, backpacking, and wildflower spotting. If you're a fan of motocross, head to the off-road race tracks on the outskirts of town. During the winter, cross-country ski or snowshoe at the South Flower Nordic Ski Trails or downhill ski and snowboard at the Turner Mountain Ski Area. Visit the Kootenai Falls to see waterfalls and rapids, or spend the afternoon at the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness Area. Feel like taking things slower? Play some golf at the Cabinet View Golf Course, or go looking for gold at the Libby Creek Gold Panning site. At night, check into a room at the Evergreen Motel and get something to eat and drink at a local brewery.

Lake City, Colorado

Sitting in the southwestern portion of Colorado, Lake City is the perfect winter getaway. With endless activities to do in the snow, pack up your jackets and snow pants and hit the road. Conquer the slopes at the Lake City Ski Hill, or try your hand at ice climbing at the in-town Ice Park next to downtown. With plenty of marked trails, rent a snowmobile or a pair of snowshoes and make a day of it. Don't worry; there are still plenty of things to do in Lake City in the summer. Spend the day fishing and kayaking at Lake San Cristobal or hike the Continental Divide Trail. Explore old mines at the Hard Tack Mine site. Enjoy mountainbiking? There are plenty of groomed trails for you to speed through. Pitch a tent at a campground, or park the camper at the Elkhorn RV Resort, which also offers rental cabins. For a hotel option, consider the North Face Lodge, located near a bakery, an eatery, and Pete's Lake. At night, look up and take in the magnificence of the stars across the open sky.

Huntsville, Utah

Just under an hour's drive from Salt Lake City, Huntsville is an easily accessible spot for a weekend getaway. Located on the Pineview Reservoir, there is no shortage of beaches and parks where you can spend your days relaxing. Go boating or paddleboarding at Windsurfer Beach, which features several picnic areas and public washrooms. Pineview Reservoir is also a prime spot for fishing and is home to crappie, smallmouth bass, and tiger muskies. Go horseback riding in the summer or cross-country skiing in the winter at Wheeler Creek, or adventure into Ogden Canyon and snap some pics of the waterfall. Visiting during the snowy months? Huntsville has two major ski areas, including the Snowbasin Ski Resort and the Nordic Valley Ski Resort. Retire to the Compass Rose Lodge right next to the Huntsville town park with an onsite coffee shop and observatory.

Teton Village, Wyoming

Teton Village services the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, which is a skiing and snowboarding paradise. In the winter, take part in skating, snowmobiling, and sleigh rides. Attend Winterfest and sample world-class dishes. During the day, try something new and go on a dogsled tour. In the summer months, ride the gondola, flex your skills at the bike park, or feel the wind in your hair and go tandem paragliding. If spiking your adrenaline isn't your style, find peace and serenity at a local spa, or spend time at the R Lazy S Ranch and go horseback riding. For the hikers, Granite Canyon, Phelps Lake, and Snake River have you covered. If you want to take in the sights, trek up to the Albright View Overlook and admire the wildflowers and snow-capped peaks of the Rockies. Don't worry about getting around, as Teton Village offers shutter service up to Jackson Hole. As for accommodation, feel pampered and relaxed at the Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa with a pool, hot tub, and onsite restaurant.

West Glacier, Montana

The entrance point to Glacier National Park, West Glacier, is on the Middle Fork Flathead River and is a stopping point for those wishing to experience the beauty of northwestern Montana. Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting, or take things slow at Lake McDonald and admire the crystal-clear waters. Cycle down the main roads or venture into the National Park and picnic at Harrison Lake. Go on a guided horseback ride through the mountain trails, or take part in some rock climbing and reward yourself with the magnificent views. Make getting around easy with the shuttle services offered at Going to the Sun Road, a major street in town. At night, retire to a campground, RV park, or to a warm bed at the Glacier Guides Lodge.

Bayview, Idaho

Located on the Scenic Bay portion of Lake Pend Oreille, Bayview is a picturesque waterfront town catering to those who love spending the day on the waves. Choose from either the Bitter End Marina or the Vista Bay Marina and set sail with a rented kayak, sailboat, or fishing boat. Pick up a latte from Ralphs Coffeehouse and walk the shores, or play some disc golf at the Farragut course. Have kids or just want to seek out some thrills? Head over to the Tree to Tree Idaho Adventure Park and conquer the rope bridges, or spend the day at the Silverwood Theme Park. Backpack at the Idaho Panhandle National Forest and hopefully spot some wildlife, including elk, moose, and bears. Or pack a lunch and journey into the Coeur d'Alene National Forest and take in the views. Watch the sunset and bite into a delicious burger at the Lakehouse Bar and Grill, and afterward, retire to a rustic yet charming rental cabin at MacDonald's Resort.

Seeley Lake, Montana

Situated between Seeley Lake and Salmon Lake State Park, Seeley Lake is perfect for those who enjoy fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Catch some rainbow trout at Seeley, kayak at Salmon, and canoe down the Clearwater River Canoe Trail. For even more fishing opportunities, visit the nearby Placid Lake State Park. There are plenty of trails for mountain biking as well as backpacking, providing you tons of places to stop and try to spot some wildlife or birdwatch. Hike to the top of Morrel Mountain and breathe in the fresh mountain air while you overlook the valleys below. In the winter, play some hockey on the frozen ponds, or bring along your cross-country skis. Seeley Lake has several campgrounds to choose from, offering everything from places to pitch a tent and be close to nature, to places to hook up your camper and have a bonfire. Or spend the weekend at the Double Arrow Lodge, featuring an onsite golf course, adorable log cabins, a main lodge area, and a restaurant/bar.

Discover Your Next Adventure in the Rockies

Hopefully, you've become inspired and are dreaming of everything the Rockies have to offer. From spa days to thrill-seeking adventures, there's something for the whole family. So pack up the tent, load up the RV, or visit a travel booking site to secure an accommodation that fits your every need. The Rocky Mountains expand across Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico, leaving you hundreds of serene towns to choose from. Or, if you have a passport, consider venturing across the border into Canada, where they continue into British Columbia and Alberta.