Take a Break Outdoors: Popular Summer Mountain Vacations in the U.S.

Spanning several states, the majestic Rocky Mountains are a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Beyond world-class skiing, resort towns like Aspen, Vail, and Breckenridge offer all sorts of summer activities. Explore hiking trails adorned with wildflowers, go whitewater rafting on the thrilling Colorado River, or indulge in the vibrant culinary and cultural scenes.

Don't miss the Maroon Bells near Aspen, one of the most photographed peaks in North America.

Also read: Where to Travel for the Most Scenic Drives in America

Straddling the California-Nevada border, Lake Tahoe is a natural wonder with its crystal-clear waters and towering mountains. Ski resorts like Squaw Valley and Heavenly attract winter sports enthusiasts, while the lake's calm waters invite kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating during the summer. Explore the charming towns of South Lake Tahoe and Incline Village, or venture to nearby Emerald Bay State Park for a scenic hike.

Add on a daytrip to Virginia City, NV to see a perfectly preserved frontier town.

Also see: Top Summer Travel Destinations This Year

Shared by Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a diverse landscape of forests, rivers, and waterfalls. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge serve as popular gateways, offering a wide range of accommodations, from cozy cabins to family-friendly resorts. Don't miss the chance to hike a portion of the famous Appalachian Trail, or explore the historic Cades Cove, a preserved pioneer settlement.

Avoid the tourist traps and explore the park's stunning trails, like the Chimney Tops Trail or the Laurel Falls hike.

Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountains offer a family-friendly escape with a wide array of activities. Ski resorts like Camelback Mountain and Shawnee Mountain transform into adventure parks during the summer, featuring zip lines, ropes courses, and mountain biking trails. Cool off at the Indoor Waterpark at Camelback Resort or explore the charming towns of the Pennsylvania Dutch Country.

Take a scenic ride on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway through the stunning Lehigh River Gorge. 

See 8 of the Best Swim-Up Rooms and Resorts around the World

New England's Green Mountains provide a picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Hike the scenic trails of Stowe or Killington, or explore the historic towns of Woodstock and Manchester. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in Vermont's renowned maple syrup and craft beer scenes.

Take a scenic drive along Route 100, dubbed the "Skiers' Highway," for stunning views of the Green Mountains and quaint New England towns.

Upstate New York's Adirondack Mountains offer a wilderness escape with pristine lakes and towering peaks. Lake Placid, the host of the 1980 and 1932 Winter Olympics, is a hub for outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and whitewater rafting. Explore the High Falls Gorge or take a scenic drive along the Olympic Trail Scenic Byway.

Experience the unique Adirondack lifestyle by staying in a rustic Great Camp, the historic "cottage" retreats of the Gilded Age elite.

Explore the rugged beauty of the Cascade Range across the states of Washington and Oregon, home to iconic peaks like Mount Rainier and Crater Lake National Park. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the quirky city of Portland, known for its vibrant food scene, craft breweries, and overall laid-back vibe.

Marvel at the vibrant wildflower meadows that blanket the alpine landscapes of Mount Rainier National Park during the summer months.

Travel insurance and assistance services are highly recommended for any mountain vacation, especially those involving outdoor activities, remote locations, or family travel.

The right travel protection plan, like those offered by Generali Global Assistance, provides crucial coverages, for events like emergency medical assistance, trip cancellation and interruption, and coverage for lost or delayed baggage, including sporting equipment, plus 24/7 Travel Assistance available when you need it most.

Ensure your mountain getaway has travel protection, so you can focus on creating unforgettable memories in nature's serene embrace. Start by getting a quote.

Some ways a travel protection plan can help:

• If an emergency illness or accident occurs, a travel insurance plan from Generali Global Assistance includes coverages, like Emergency Assistance and Transportation that can help save the day.
• If your itinerary includes a rental car, you should get Rental Car Damage coverage to help protect against costs associated with collisions or theft. You can add that coverage to our Standard and Preferred plans, and it comes included with our Premium plan.
• If you’ve booked a ski or golf vacation, it’s even more important that your gear arrive on time and in one piece. Our Preferred and Premium travel insurance plans include coverages for sporting equipment, so you don’t miss a day of the action if your equipment is delayed, lost or damaged.
  
  Here are some more