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10Best Explores Hotels in Mountain Destinations
Lake Tahoe: Resort at Squaw Creek
Surrounded by the Sierra Nevada mountains, Lake Tahoe is nothing short of enchanting, and nearly every outdoor sport under the sun is available here. For summer accommodation, the Resort at Squaw Creek stands out from the pack, with guiding hiking, on-site fly fishing and a top notch golf course right outside the door on the North Shore of the lake. Plan a trip mid-week for room discounts.
San Juan Mountains: Fairmont Heritage Place Franz Klammer Lodge
Telluride, a mining town turned ski village, is a paradise for outdoor sports enthusiasts no matter the season. Hiking, mountain biking and a calender packed full of festivals keep Telluride bustling all summer, and the Fairmont Heritage Place Franz Klammer Lodge puts you in the center of it all, just steps from the gondola that will carry you up and into the San Juan Mountains.
Photo courtesy of Fairmont Heritage Place Franz Klammer Lodge
Adirondacks: The Whiteface Lodge
When it comes to mountainous summer vacation destinations, it doesn't get much better than the 6 million-acre Adirondack Park. The Whiteface Lodge, located in the Lake Placid area, is ideal for families, thanks to its spacious all-suite rooms with full kitchens, private balconies and kid-friendly extras, like a movie theater, bowling alley and game room.
Great Smoky Mountains: The Swag
The mountaintop inn aptly named The Swag sits on the doorstep of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the United States. When you're not out exploring the park, you can relax on the lawn with four of North Carolina's six highest peaks visible from your Adirondack chair.
The Berkshires: The Porches Inn
If you're looking for a summer escape from Boston, New York or any other East Coast city, head into the greenery of the Berkshires, home to one of the quirkiest hotels on the East Coast. The Porches Inn consists of several refurbished 19th century mill workers' houses that offer plenty of space and family-friendly additions, like high-speed internet, DVD players, pull-out sofas and rocking chairs on the porch.
Poconos: Ledges Hotel
The Poconos, one of the country's most iconic mountain retreats, is famous for its woodland terrain, waterfalls and winding rivers. Ledges Hotel blends seamlessly with its surroundings, perched above Wallenpaupack Creek near Hawley, Pennsylvania. Many of the rooms offer panoramic views of the seasonal waterfall just outside.
Park City: The Blue Boar Inn
Located just outside of Park City on the doorstep of Wasatch Mountain State Park sits the Blue Boar Inn, voted one of Utah's best bed and breakfasts year after year and home to one of the state's best restaurants. Each room in the old-style European chateau is named after a different literary figure, and each comes fitted with a fireplace and jetted tub, perfect for a rustic, romantic getaway.
Whistler: Fairmont Chateau Whistler
While primarily known as a winter sports haven, Whistler is home to some of the best terrain for summer outdoor adventures anywhere in North America, from hiking and biking to zip-lining and horseback riding. The castle-like Fairmont Chateau Whistler at the foot of Blackcomb Mountain has spacious rooms with fireplaces and a heated outdoor pool, perfect for a summer afternoon swim.
Blowing Rock: Westglow Resort & Spa
The charming town of Blowing Rock makes the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors to North Carolina looking to get away from it all will find blissful seclusion at the Westglow Resort & Spa, located just a few minutes outside of Blowing Rock. Housed within a historic Greek Revival mansion, the 20-acre resort is surrounded by mountains on all sides.
Taos: El Monte Sagrado
Surrounded by the towering high desert mountains of Toas, New Mexico, El Monte Sagrado Living Resort & Spa sits in harmony with the natural surroundings. Named by Forbes as one of the greenest hotels in America, El Monte Sagrado blends Native American and global cultural influences in its mystical, artistic decor, and the on-site Living Spa will ensure you head home from your vacation relaxed and at peace.