The 9 Best Places to Buy a Mountain Vacation Home in the U.S.

Nestled in diverse landscapes, from the rugged Aleutian Range in Alaska to the lush Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina, mountainous regions offer a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational activities.

These areas are ideal for those seeking a retreat from the urban hustle, providing a tranquil environment amidst soaring peaks and rich flora.

Mountain getaways are not just about outdoor adventures like hiking or skiing; they also offer cultural experiences, such as exploring local art in Taos, New Mexico, or indulging in the culinary delights of Asheville, North Carolina.

For families, places like Park City, Utah, and Telluride, Colorado, offer a mix of fun activities suitable for all ages, from skiing to museum visits.

Each mountain destination has its unique allure, making them perfect for vacation homes where one can enjoy both nature’s serenity and a variety of leisure activities.

Best Places to Buy a Mountain Vacation Home in the U.S.

Blue Ridge, Georgia

Blue Ridge, Georgia
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Blue Ridge, Georgia

Blue Ridge, Georgia, is an idyllic destination for a mountain vacation home, offering a serene and picturesque setting in the North Georgia mountains. Known for its charming atmosphere, Blue Ridge is ideal for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and small-town charm.

The area is renowned for its scenic mountain views, providing a perfect backdrop for a range of outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and visiting local wineries. Vacation rentals in Blue Ridge range from cozy cabins to luxurious properties, many featuring amenities like hot tubs and waterfront views, ensuring comfort and relaxation.

The town itself offers a variety of attractions, including local festivals, unique shops, and a variety of dining options.

For those interested in the arts, there are galleries to explore, and nature enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to places like the Chattahoochee National Forest and Blue Ridge Lake. 

Snowmass Village, Colorado

Snowmass Village, Colorado
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Snowmass Village, Colorado

Snowmass Village in Colorado epitomizes mountain luxury and adventure. This self-contained, family-friendly ski resort village is surrounded by the majestic peaks and valleys of the Rocky Mountains.

Snowmass Village boasts a wide array of private townhomes and condos, offering easy ski access and amenities such as pools, hot tubs, and fitness centers. The area is celebrated for its glade skiing, park riding, and a variety of summer activities like hot air ballooning and photography.

The condos and homes here cater to different needs, offering cozy slopeside condos to spacious houses, ensuring a perfect match for every visitor’s preference. The village’s charm is complemented by its proximity to Aspen, providing additional skiing, hiking, biking, and shopping opportunities.

Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

Bretton Woods, New Hampshire
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Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, is a prime location for those seeking a mountain vacation home, offering both scenic beauty and a host of recreational activities.

Renowned as New Hampshire’s largest ski area, Bretton Woods boasts a range of skiing and snowboarding options on its numerous trails and glades. The area is celebrated for its exceptional snow and grooming, making it a top choice for winter sports enthusiasts.

The vacation rentals in Bretton Woods vary from slope-side townhomes to single-family homes, providing a perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Many properties offer stunning views of the surrounding White Mountains and the Ammonoosuc River, adding to the allure of the area. 

In addition to winter sports, the area offers activities for every season. Summer brings opportunities for hiking in the White Mountain National Forest, kayaking down the Ammonoosuc River, and exploring the local scenery.

The region is also known for its spectacular fall foliage, making it a popular destination for leaf-peeping. Bretton Woods’ close proximity to historical landmarks like the Mount Washington Hotel further enhances its appeal as a vacation home destination.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville, North Carolina
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Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville, North Carolina, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a fusion of natural beauty and urban sophistication. This city is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and the iconic Biltmore Estate.

Surrounded by stunning mountain vistas, Asheville offers a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking and mountain biking. The city is also celebrated as a craft brewing hub and boasts a lively culinary scene.

Asheville’s diverse attractions, coupled with its scenic mountain backdrop, make it an appealing location for a mountain vacation home.

Here, one can enjoy both cultural experiences and the tranquility of nature, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation.

Suncadia, Washington

Suncadia, Washington
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Suncadia, Washington

Suncadia Resort in Washington State offers an idyllic getaway in the Cascades. This all-season mountain resort is spread across 6,000 acres, blending natural beauty with an array of activities and amenities.

The resort boasts over 55 vacation homes, ranging from cozy 2-bedroom condos to luxurious estates, many with features like air conditioning, gas fireplaces, hot tubs, and outdoor fire pits.

Situated amidst lush forests and sweeping mountain views, Suncadia is a haven for those who love the outdoors, offering over 40 miles of hiking and biking trails, championship golf courses, and a variety of dining options.

The resort’s neighborhoods each offer unique experiences, from properties nestled on golf courses to homes with direct river access, making it an ideal location for a mountain vacation home.

Lenox and Great Barrington, Berkshires, Massachusetts

Berkshires, Massachusetts
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Berkshires, Massachusetts

Lenox and Great Barrington, located in the Berkshires of Massachusetts, present an ideal setting for a mountain vacation home. These towns boast a mix of cultural richness and natural beauty.

Lenox, known for its historic New England architecture and scenic landscapes, offers a range of activities from wellness resorts to world-class performing arts venues. It’s famous for being the former residence of literary legend Edith Wharton and is home to other eminent attractions like Tanglewood.

The town is also ideal for outdoor recreation with beautiful lakes and trails. Great Barrington complements this with a cozy historical atmosphere, close to Butternut ski mountain and offering a variety of cultural and outdoor activities.

These towns provide a perfect blend of artistic charm and natural splendor, making them excellent choices for vacation homes​.

Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff, Arizona
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Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff, Arizona, stands out as a prime location for investing in a mountain vacation home, thanks to its unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreational activities, and cultural richness.

The city’s setting in Arizona’s high country makes it an oasis for residents of Phoenix and Sedona, as well as for tourists seeking outdoor adventures.

Surrounded by the Coconino National Forest, Flagstaff provides access to popular spots like the Lava River Cave, Lowell Observatory, and the Arizona Snowbowl, which offers views of the Grand Canyon.

The Flagstaff vacation rental market shows clear income potential. With mild winters and comfortable summers, it attracts visitors throughout the year, and the summertime tends to have the highest occupancy rates.

However, vacation rentals in Flagstaff maintain interest across different seasons. The city is ideal for various group sizes and budgets, making it a versatile investment choice.

Properties close to downtown Flagstaff are particularly popular, offering easy access to the city’s best eateries, historic blocks, and nature excursions like Humphreys Peak and the Arizona Nordic Village.

The median home values in Flagstaff are just under $630,000, which is above the national average but more affordable compared to nearby areas like Sedona. The rental market caters to a diverse range of preferences, with properties ranging from cozy cabins to luxury homes.

New River Valley, Virginia

New River Valley, Virginia
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New River Valley, Virginia

Information about New River Valley, Virginia, as a mountain vacation home destination is not directly available. However, based on the characteristics of the region, New River Valley offers a blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities that make it an attractive option for a vacation home.

The New River Valley is known for its scenic landscapes, part of the Appalachian Mountains. The presence of the New River, one of the oldest rivers in the world, adds to the area’s appeal, offering opportunities for river sports, hiking, and biking.

The region’s natural beauty, combined with a range of recreational activities, makes it an appealing spot for those looking for a vacation home that allows them to enjoy the great outdoors and the tranquility of nature.

When considering a vacation home in areas like New River Valley, it’s essential to look for properties that offer the right blend of seclusion, scenic views, and access to outdoor activities.

The region’s changing seasons also provide a diverse range of experiences, from vibrant fall foliage to summer outdoor adventures, making it a versatile destination for vacation homeowners.

Healdsburg and Cloverdale, California

Healdsburg and Cloverdale, California
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Healdsburg and Cloverdale, California

Healdsburg and Cloverdale, nestled in California’s renowned Sonoma County, represent picturesque and luxurious destinations for mountain vacation homes. These areas are celebrated for their tranquil wine country settings, offering an exclusive blend of rural charm, vineyard vistas, and a sophisticated lifestyle.

Healdsburg is particularly known for its wineries, art galleries, and fine dining, attracting those who appreciate a refined living experience. Vacation rentals here range from expansive estates with amenities like infinity-edge swimming pools and bocce ball courts to cozy bungalows located just blocks from the city plaza.

Cloverdale, with its array of beautiful vacation homes, provides a serene setting for relaxation and enjoyment of the scenic beauty, including private homes with creek access and modern homes offering expansive views and acres of space.

The blend of high-end luxury, cultural richness, and stunning natural landscapes make Healdsburg and Cloverdale desirable locations for vacation homes.

Final Thoughts

The United States offers a diverse array of locations ideal for investing in mountain vacation homes. These destinations cater to various preferences, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and comfortable climates.

The appeal of these areas extends to various market segments, from families and groups seeking adventure to individuals craving relaxation in nature’s lap.

Investing in vacation homes in these regions offers not just a retreat but also the potential for a profitable venture, combining personal enjoyment with financial benefit.