Goodbye, Aspen. Hello, Crested Butte. We’re over the uber-luxe mountain towns and ready to trade high price tags for the allure of underrated alpine villages. As fall and winter approach, we’re spotlighting eight highland hamlets across North America to add to your bucket list for leaf-peeping and ski season. Read below.
Ketchum, Idaho
Once a modest mining town, Ketchum has blossomed into a lively resort destination near the glamorous Sun Valley. Towering Bald Mountain overlooks this Old West hamlet, which comes alive each September with the vibrant Ketchum Oktoberfest. Imagine sipping a warm coffee at Java and browsing chic apparel at Maude’s Coffee and Clothes on a crisp fall morning—it’s time to queue up Sweater Weather.
Stay here: Centrally located in Idaho’s picturesque Wood River Valley, the Limelight Ketchum provides 113 modern rooms and suites, providing the coziest retreats for sybaritic nature lovers. Spend your days adventuring in the mountains, then cozy up to the hotel’s chic restaurant lounge and lobby bar at nightfall.
Nearest Ski Resort: Sun Valley Ski Resort
Manchester, Vermont
The Northeast state of Vermont truly shines in the fall and winter months, and Manchester is especially renowned for its vibrant foliage, capturing the essence of autumn’s transition. Take the scenic route by driving the Mount Equinox Skyline Drive for sweeping views of New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts from the highest peak in the Taconic Range.
Stay here: The Equinox Resort & Spa, established in 1769, evokes sophisticated New England charm. It hosts the historic Marsh Tavern, a state-of-the-art spa with a 25-yard indoor lap pool, and contemporary inns. Plus, it’s home to one of America’s best golf courses.
Nearest Ski Resort: Bromley Mountain
Taos, New Mexico
Taos in autumn offers warm, sunny days and cool desert evenings. From October 25th to 27th, early risers can enjoy the Taos Mountain Balloon Rally, soaring above the clouds in a hot air balloon at dawn. After your flight, satisfy your appetite at The Bavarian, an authentic European Alpine restaurant at the base of Taos Ski Valley’s Lift 4, where you can indulge in warm pretzels, goulash, and baskets of fries.
Stay here: The historic Taos Inn, deeply rooted in local heritage, offers a stylish base to explore New Mexico’s rich tapestry. From insights into Native American traditions to the region’s unique Southwest culture, this retro hotel is a gateway to all that New Mexico celebrates.
Nearest Ski Resort: Taos Ski Valley
Crested Butte, Colorado
Colorado is second to none as a haven for fall and winter activities. While its famous alpine towns—Aspen, Breckenridge, Telluride, and Vail—draw throngs of outdoor enthusiasts and bon vivants, the Centennial State also boasts lesser-known gems like Crested Butte, ideal for fueling the Rocky Mountain high sans the masses. Epic Pass holders can enjoy a weekend on the slopes and aprés festivities at the Kochevars Saloon without breaking the bank.
Stay here: Nestled between peaks in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Sopris House is a private four-bedroom lodge that nails Wild West chic with refreshed interiors, an original jukebox, antler chandeliers, and buffalo-head mounts.
Nearest Ski Resort: Crested Butte Mountain Resort
Mont-Tremblant, Québec, Canada
Forget Whistler—Mont-Tremblant, a European-style village, deserves more attention. Known for its world-class skiing in winter, Mont-Tremblant also shines in the fall with the forested hillsides of Parc National du Mont-Tremblant and the scenic overlooks on the Pimbina side. Begin with a morning stroll through the village, grabbing coffee and pastries at Au Grain de Café before browsing high-end stores like Roots, Ludivine, and Rudsak—a perfect start to a fall or winter day.
Stay here: Hôtel Quintessence, Mont-Tremblant’s premier five-star hotel, epitomizes Canadian luxury on a historic mountainside waterfront estate. Each of its 30 sumptuous suites sports a wood-burning fireplace, marble en suite bathrooms, and a hot tub with views of the lake.
Nearest Ski Resort: Mont-Tremblant Ski Resort
Truckee, California
While South Lake Tahoe boasts the Heavenly Ski Resort and Edgewood Tahoe, the north side offers a quieter alpine aura. Truckee’s Old West vibe and natural beauty span the Truckee River and Donner Lake—the site of the tragic Donner Party. Grab your Epic Pass to ski or snowboard at Northstar California Resort, then enjoy the breathtaking Sierra Nevada views with a brew at the mountaintop Zephyr Lodge.
Stay here: The Incline Lodge, Incline Village’s first boutique hotel, has been refurbished with a modern mountain home style while maintaining a laid-back ambiance. Plus, it’s situated right below the modest Diamond Peak Ski Resort for all-level skiers and picture-worthy views of Lake Tahoe as you glide down the slopes.
Nearest Ski Resort: Northstar California Resort
