8 Most Underrated Towns In The Rockies To Take A Trip To
The Rocky Mountains, commonly known as the Rockies, are North America’s most extensive mountain range. Extending 3,000 miles, the Rockies pass through six states: Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, and New Mexico. Throughout the region are several underrated small towns away from the hustle and bustle of city life. These uncrowded towns provide visitors with outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and historical areas.
From Red River, New Mexico, a small town in the Southern Rocky Mountains, to the scenic city of Whitefish, Montana, near the Canadian border, these hidden gems await exploring. Since the Rocky Mountains were home to the Old West and America's westward expansion, travelers can also learn more about the region’s history in Cody, Wyoming, and Gunnison, Colorado. Explore the eight most underrated towns in the Rockies to visit.
Ouray, Colorado
Known as the "Switzerland of America," Ouray, Colorado, is a charming town in a high alpine valley at 7,800 feet. Surrounding the community are mountain peaks, making Ouray a perfect place for outdoor adventures. Travelers can hike the trail at Cascade Falls Park and view breathtaking waterfalls. Another area worth exploring is Box Cañon Falls, where visitors can see Ouray’s own “Wonder of the World.” The falls are the culmination of Canyon Creek narrowing and spilling thousands of gallons a minute of water over the falls.
A winter trip to the underrated town allows outdoor adventurers to ice-climb at the Ouray Ice Park, the world's largest artificial public ice-climbing park. The Ice Park hosts the annual Ouray Ice Festival in January, featuring live music, climbing clinics, and the latest ice-climbing gear.
Red River, New Mexico
Located in Northern New Mexico, Red River provides outdoor adventures in an Old Western town setting. Skiers and snowboarders hit the slopes at the Red River Ski and Summer Area in the winter, while the area transforms into beautiful hiking trails during warmer months. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and off-road vehicle trails through the Carson National Forest. Since the Red River is named after the river that flows through the town, ample fishing opportunities exist.
A stroll along Main Street is a must for those looking to enjoy the breathtaking scenery while enjoying Old West storefronts. The 1-mile stretch features several restaurants, gift shops, and lodging options, including Riverside Lodge and Cabins.
Jackson, Wyoming
Less than 60 miles from Yellowstone National Park’s south entrance, Jackson, Wyoming, offers visitors a chance to experience nature fully. Visitors can view large elk herds and native wildlife at the National Elk Refuge. At the same time, history buffs can experience the breathtaking scenery surrounding the Robert E. Miller Cabin, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1898, the cabin was the site of the first elections in Jackson Hole the same year.
Jackson is also a haven for winter outdoor enthusiasts and home to Snow King Mountain, the oldest ski area in the Cowboy State. The uncrowded place is perfect for skiing, tubing, and snowboarding. Snow King Mountain is also home to the Cowboy Coaster, which offers incredible views of the Teton Mountains.
Ketchum, Idaho
Ketchum, Idaho, is a charming mountain town in the Wood River Valley. Situated near the Sun Valley Resort, Ketchum is known for its skiing and winter outdoor activities. The town offers hiking and mountain biking in the summer on various trails, including the Adam’s Gulch Trailhead. Recognized by the International Dark-Sky Association as a Dark Sky Community, Ketchum is the perfect place for stargazing.
Ketchum was also a mining town in the late 1800s named after David Ketchum, a trapper and guide. History buffs can learn more about the town’s history and indigenous people, such as the Shoshone and Bannock Tribes, at the Wood River Museum of History and Culture. The town’s past also comes alive on Labor Day weekend. Each year, the city hosts the Wagon Days Parade, the largest non-motorized parade in the Pacific Northwest, celebrating Ketchum’s mining and pioneering history.
Cody, Wyoming
Cody, Wyoming, is a Wild West town just east of Yellowstone National Park. The underrated village is the perfect spot to experience Western life and learn the history of Western pioneers. A stop at the Historic Cody Mural and Museum offers a glimpse into America’s western expansion. Open from May through September, the museum is free and open to the public. The Buffalo Bill Center of the West is also a must-see in Cody. The center is home to five museums, all highlighting the history of the American West. Western traditions continue at Cody Stampede Rodeo, where rodeos have been held every summer since 1919.
For those looking to experience Cody’s stunning natural surroundings, a hike along one of the town's many trails is essential. Outdoor enthusiasts can stroll along the beautiful Shoshone River Trail or ride horseback in the town’s backcountry with Yellowstone Horse.
Moab, Utah
For those looking for outdoor adventures, Moab, Utah, is an underrated town worth visiting. With its stunning red rock landscapes, visitors can explore the breathtaking Arches National Park. The park is a red-rock wonderland where visitors can hike on easy to moderate trails or take a scenic 18-mile driving tour of the red-rock arches and petrified dunes. Moab is also home to Canyonlands National Park, where nature enthusiasts can explore four areas: Island in the Sky, the Needles, the Maze, and the Green River and Colorado River. The park is excellent for mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, and stargazing.
The town also has a vibrant arts scene, and art enthusiasts can view public art on display by taking a stroll through downtown Moab. Local art can also be seen at the Moab Arts & Recreation Center, where visitors can take an art class.
Gunnison, Colorado
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Gunnison, Colorado, offers visitors the chance to explore Old West history and incredible landscapes. The Gunnison Pioneer Museum showcases the town’s railroad and westward expansion history on its 14-acre campus. History buffs can explore railroad artifacts, such as Cinder Ella, an engine built in 1882 that served the town for more than 70 years.
The town is also the gateway to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, known for its dramatic, deep canyon walls. Visitors can take scenic drives around the canyon’s North and South Rim or hike along the canyon’s many trails. The town offers more outdoor activities at the Curecanti National Recreation Area. Home to three reservoirs, the area is a perfect spot for boating, sailing, fishing, and windsurfing.
Whitefish, Montana
Whitefish is a charming resort town near Glacier National Park in Northwest Montana. As the town’s name suggests, Whitefish is a great spot for fishing. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike, boat, kayak, or water-ski at Whitefish Lake State Park while taking in majestic mountain views. In the winter, Whitefish transforms into a ski haven. Whitefish Mountain Resort is an underrated ski area that allows skiers to hit the slopes at night.
The town also has a vibrant art and music community. Visitors can listen to live music or watch a theatrical performance at the Whitefish Theater Company. Art lovers can explore local art galleries, such as Dick Idol Signature Gallery and Going to the Sun Gallery, in the charming downtown.
Rocky Mountain Adventure Awaits
These towns offer various outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. While they may not be as well-known as more prominent cities in the region, each town provides scenic views, vibrant art communities, and history worth exploring. Regardless of what visitors are looking for, these small towns offer any traveler the perfect Rocky Mountain adventure.
