10 Lovely Small Towns to Visit in The Rockies This Summer
The Rocky Mountains, often referred to as the Rockies, stretch over 3,000 miles from British Columbia in Canada to New Mexico in the United States. This major mountain range includes notable peaks such as Mount Elbert in Colorado, the highest point in the Rockies, and Mount Robson in British Columbia. The region is characterized by its diverse ecosystems, ranging from alpine tundra to dense forests, and is home to several national parks, including Yellowstone, Glacier, and Rocky Mountain National Park.
The Rockies also feature numerous lovely small towns worth visiting this summer, especially for those interested in hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. These ten Rocky Mountain towns are ideal destinations for summer travel.
Estes Park, Colorado
Estes Park, Colorado, is a town at the eastern entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, established in the mid-19th century for ranching and tourism. The town's history is tied to the development of the national park, which was officially designated in 1915, bringing a surge of visitors and growth to the area. The summer weather in Estes Park is typically mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-70s Fahrenheit—ideal for outdoor activities.
Rocky Mountain National Park becomes a summer paradise with accessible trails and meadows. Wildflower blooms and scenic drives, like Trail Ridge Road, attract many visitors. The Stanley Hotel's tours are a chance to explore the historic hotel's gardens and grounds. The full bloom of the gardens in the summertime enhances the hotel's eerie charm and historic allure. The Estes Park Aerial Tramway has expansive views from the top for picnics and photography. The clear, warm weather makes the ride particularly enjoyable.
Jackson, Wyoming
Jackson, Wyoming, is a town in the Jackson Hole Valley within Teton County. Founded in the late 19th century, Jackson served as a hub for cattle ranching and later became a gateway for tourists visiting nearby Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. The town's history includes its development as a center for mountaineering, skiing, and outdoor recreation. In the summer, Jackson experiences temperatures typically ranging from the 50s to 80s Fahrenheit.
Grand Teton National Park's trails and high mountain passes are clear of snow in the summer, making them ideal for hiking and wildlife and wildflower viewing. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort's Aerial Tram operates in summer and gives access to high-altitude trails and views. The Snake River's water levels are optimal for white-water rafting and scenic float trips in the summer. Teton Whitewater is a well-reviewed tour operator for these activities.
Banff, Alberta
Banff, Alberta, is located within Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies, established in 1885. It is Canada's first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its mountain landscapes and biodiversity. The town of Banff grew alongside the development of the Canadian Pacific Railway, which promoted the area as a travel destination. In the summer, Banff enjoys mild weather, ranging from the mid-40s to mid-70s Fahrenheit.
Banff National Park's trails and roads open in summer to enjoy alpine scenery, glacial lakes, and diverse wildlife. Long daylight hours allow for extended exploration of the park. Banff Gondola has clear views from the top of Sulphur Mountain, with boardwalk trails accessible and summit facilities open. It is a time to take in panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks. Meanwhile, nearby Lake Louise is thawed in the summer for canoeing and hiking to the Lake Agnes Tea House.
Park City, Utah
Park City, Utah, is a town in the Wasatch Mountains, originally founded as a silver mining town in the late 19th century. The discovery of silver veins brought a rush of prospectors and wealth, leading to the establishment of Park City in 1868. By the early 20th century, the town began to transition towards tourism and winter sports, and it became a premier ski destination. However, it is also an unassuming summer destination, where it enjoys warm, sunny days with temperatures from the mid-50s to mid-80s Fahrenheit.
Park City Mountain Resort is all about outdoor activities in summer, including mountain biking and zip-lining. Chairlift rides have expansive views of the mountains. Utah Olympic Park also has unique outdoor experiences like bobsledding and extreme tubing. Deer Valley Resort hosts summer concerts and opens its mountain biking and hiking trails. Don't miss the Patriotic Pops concert this July.
Durango, Colorado
Durango, Colorado, is a town located in the southwestern part of the state in the Animas River Valley. Founded in 1880 by the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad, Durango quickly became a destination for mining and transportation. The town's history is reflected in its well-preserved buildings and cultural scene. In the summer, Durango has warm and dry weather, with temperatures between the 50s and 80s Fahrenheit.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad runs through green landscapes and blooming wildflowers in the summertime. Mesa Verde National Park has accessible cliff dwellings and archaeological sites to explore, and guided tours are available. Animas River Trail is ideal for biking and walking along the river.
Invermere, British Columbia
Invermere, British Columbia, is a small town in the Columbia Valley between the Rocky Mountains and Purcell Mountains. Established in the early 20th century, Invermere grew as a center for agriculture, tourism, and outdoor recreation. The town's setting along the shores of Windermere Lake has made it a destination for nature lovers. In the summer, Invermere experiences warm weather with temperatures anywhere between the 50s to 80s Fahrenheit.
Kootenay National Park has accessible trails, waterfalls, and wildlife. These natural features are best explored in the summer months. Windermere Lake is ideal for swimming, boating, and relaxing on the beach. Due to the cooler environment, swimming is only recommended in the summertime. Panorama Mountain Resort has summer activities like mountain biking, golfing, and hiking. The alpine setting is a backdrop for these outdoor pursuits.
Waterton Park, Alberta
Waterton Park, Alberta, is a small town located within Waterton Lakes National Park in the southwestern corner of Alberta. Established in the early 20th century, Waterton grew as a tourism hub due to its natural landscapes and proximity to the Canada-United States border. The town's history is intertwined with the development of the national park, designated in 1895, making it one of Canada's earliest national parks. In the summer, temperatures fluctuate from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit.
Waterton Lakes National Park has trails, lakes, and scenic drives that can be easily accessed in summer. The season brings an abundance of wildflowers and wildlife, but keep an eye out for bears. Red Rock Canyon is a spot for hiking and photography. Vibrant red rock formations and clear skies create picturesque scenes. Cameron Lake is suitable for boating, fishing, and picnicking and is best enjoyed in warm weather.
Field, British Columbia
Field, British Columbia, is a small town in Yoho National Park in the Canadian Rockies. Established in the late 19th century as a base for the Canadian Pacific Railway, Field became a location for the railway's construction and operations. The town's history is connected to the development of the railway and the surrounding national park, which was created to protect the area's natural beauty and attract tourists. In the summer, Field has mild to warm weather from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit.
Emerald Lake's stunning turquoise color is at its peak in summer, and hiking trails around the lake are fully accessible. Takakkaw Falls, at their most powerful due to snowmelt, create a spectacular natural sight. Yoho National Park's trails and scenic spots, like the Natural Bridge and Wapta Falls, are best explored in the warm summer weather. These locations offer diverse natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Leadville, Colorado
Leadville, Colorado, is a town situated at an elevation of over 10,000 feet in the Rocky Mountains. Founded in 1877 during the Colorado Silver Boom, Leadville quickly became one of the richest and most famous mining towns in the United States. Its history includes being a key player in the silver mining industry and hosting famous residents like Doc Holliday and Baby Doe Tabor. In the summer, Leadville has mild weather, ranging from the 40s to the 70s Fahrenheit.
Leadville, Colorado & Southern Railroad hosts scenic train rides with views of the mountains and wildflowers. The service operates two trips a day from June 15 to August 18, 2024. Turquoise Lake is great for boating, fishing, and hiking. Swimming is also an option in the summer. Mount Elbert is an opportunity to hike Colorado's highest peak. Trails are snow-free and accessible during the summer months.
Ouray, Colorado
Ouray, Colorado, is a town in a valley surrounded by the San Juan Mountains. Established in the late 19th century during the mining boom, Ouray became known for its rich deposits of gold and silver. The town was named after Chief Ouray of the Ute tribe and has maintained much of its Victorian-era architecture. Today, it is often referred to as the "Switzerland of America" due to its alpine scenery. In the summer, Ouray enjoys mild temperatures from the 50s to the 80s Fahrenheit.
Box Canyon Falls Park lets visitors hike to waterfalls and explore the park's geology. The falls are best enjoyed during the summer months due to the snow melting. Yankee Boy Basin has access to high-altitude wildflower meadows and mountain vistas. Summer is the ideal time to see the flora. Ouray Ice Park, while famous for ice climbing in winter, has rock climbing during the summer. The park provides canyon scenery and challenging routes for climbers.
Altogether, the Rocky Mountains are home to some of the most lovely small towns to visit this summer. Estes Park, Colorado, has scenic trails and historic sites near Rocky Mountain National Park. Meanwhile, Jackson, Wyoming, gives access to the landscapes of Grand Teton National Park, perfect for hiking and wildlife viewing. Still, Banff, Alberta, has alpine scenery and outdoor activities within Banff National Park, drawing visitors from around the world. These ten towns exemplify the charm and beauty found throughout the Rocky Mountains, making them fantastic for a summer getaway.
