5 Awesomely Cozy Mountain Retreats

Flannels, fire pits, and fun!

Sweater weather is officially here! And there’s no place better to celebrate the coziness than high up in the mountains. Think ahhh-mazing views, quaint towns, and endless outdoor adventures. Whether you’re hiking through the forest or sipping hot cocoa by the fire, these charming mountain retreats are perfect for unwinding and soaking up the season.

Ready to layer on the flannels and enjoy the snuggly vibes? Check out these destinations for an unforgettable mountaintop getaway!

• Estes Park, CO

  Want to explore the Rockies? Estes Park is the perfect home base!

  This cozy getaway spot serves as the eastern gateway into Rocky Mountain National Park. It also provides some of the most gorgeous mountain views in the state. And that’s no small feat!

  Estes Park combines adventure and relaxation with a welcoming atmosphere. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll absolutely loooove the easy access to park trails, lakes, and stunning scenic viewpoints.

  The town’s charming downtown is filled with local artisanal shops, delicious cafes, and riverfront restaurants. But have your camera ready; you may see elk or deer wandering down the street with you.

• Gatlinburg, TN

  Mountain retreats don’t get much cozier than Gatlinburg.

  Located in the Great Smoky Mountains, this charming spot combines scenic beauty with the atmosphere of a vibrant town. The best of both worlds!

  Gatlinburg is the perfect place for enjoying the outdoors, from exploring lush forests to taking in the panoramic views. For a one-of-a-kind mountain experience, ride the iconic SkyLift to the summit of Crockett Mountain. Cross the SkyBridge, sit by the fire pit, or simply soak in the scenery.

  The town itself is known for its cozy cabins, unique craft shops, and delicious local restaurants. Fill up on Appalachian-inspired eats, Southern comfort foods, and the local specialty: craft pancakes.

• Lake Placid, NY

  Ah, New York… the state with the most iconic big city is also known for its charming mountain retreats.

  Host of 2 Winter Olympics, Lake Placid has a rich history in exciting winter sports: skiing, ice skating, and bobsledding. If it’s not quite that cold, you can enjoy beautiful hiking trails, lakefront strolls, and other recreational activities.

  But Lake Placid isn’t just for outdoor adventurers.

  Tucked away in the Adirondacks and wrapped around tranquil Mirror Lake, this small town is big on scenery. Book one of the quaint mountain inns alongside the lake for the absolute best views. Bonus points if you can see the Adirondacks from your balcony or hot tub!

• Leavenworth, WA

  Are European mountain villages on your travel bucket list but not in your budget? We’ve got you!

  A visit to Leavenworth feels like you’ve been transported right into the heart of the Alpine mountains. With its German-inspired restaurants, breweries, and architecture, this town adds a uniquely Bavarian twist to the traditional mountain retreats.

  The town has outdoor activities all year round, such as rafting, hiking, and skiing in the nearby Cascades.

  But while Leavenworth is a lively getaway any time of year, fall and winter are when it truly shines. Picture-perfect foliage and stunning scenery give way to festive lights and decorations, creating a cozy European retreat—no passport necessary!

• Woodstock, VT

  Mountainside vacations don’t get much better than this perennial New England favorite!

  Historic charm meets natural beauty in Woodstock, where numerous inns and B&Bs provide the perfect place to unwind.

  Woodstock’s picturesque streets are lined with colonial-era architecture, boutique shops, and cozy restaurants serving delicious farm-to-table fare. Looking for souvenirs? Pop into one of the many artisanal shops for a taste of Vermont’s renowned craftsmanship.

  The town is nestled in the Catskill Mountains, a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and nature-watching. Woodstock is a gorgeous getaway year-round. But with vibrant fall foliage and a snow-covered winter landscape, it truly is one of our favorite cozy mountain retreats!

Put on your warmest flannel, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to enjoy a mountain adventure at one of these scenic towns.

Mountain retreats are known for being peaceful. Start the relaxed vibe before you arrive by
shipping your stuff to your hotel or Airbnb with LugLess. No dragging sweater-filled suitcases through the airport, no hassles at baggage claim. Just hop off the plane and climb right to the top of your mountaintop fun!