Snow what? 6 charming ski towns to visit during peak summer.
No powder, no problem


Don't confuse a lack of snow for a lack of things to do — ski towns can be just as exciting in the summer as they are in winter. Instead of hitting the slopes, head to the trails for a hike, the lake for a paddleboarding session or downtown for a concert under the stars. These six destinations offer what you need for an action-packed mountain escape.
Breckenridge, Colorado
In cool Breckenridge, it typically doesn't get much hotter than 70 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer
A high-altitude adventure awaits in Breckenridge. At 9,600 feet above sea level, it is one of the highest towns in Colorado and enjoys mild temperatures during summer. It stands out for its "world-class" activities, like fly-fishing, rafting, mountain biking, trail running, stargazing, wildflower spotting and panning for gold at the Country Boy Mine, said Outside. Downtown, the "very hands-on" Breckenridge Arts District beckons with its galleries, studios and performance spaces. The Breckenridge Festival of Arts, held each August, offers "everything from workshops to nature walks with local artists" and this year will premiere SPARK by Studio Roosegaarde, a sustainable light installation aiming to replace traditional fireworks.
Laax, Switzerland
Hiking around LAAX resort is a summer treat
Find recreation and relaxation in Laax, "known informally as the California of the Swiss Alps," Glamour UK said. This is a "haven" for sporty types seeking "sweeping mountain views," a "lively atmosphere" and "friendly community." Through September, travelers can book an accommodation at the LAAX and TCS Pop-Up Glamping experience. Guests stay on Alp Nagens in luxe tents equipped with electricity, heating, toilets and have breakfast served outside from a tuk-tuk. This is the perfect way to start a busy day of biking, hiking, climbing and saunas.
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
Megève, France
Megève's roots go back to the 13th century
This "stunning" alpine village in Southeastern France dates back to the 13th century, and you can see that history around every corner, said Vogue. The cobblestoned medieval square is surrounded by old buildings, filled with shops and restaurants and the heart of Megève's cultural scene, often hosting concerts and festivals. There are ample opportunities to spend time in the great outdoors, with visitors able to "roam around mountain pastures sprinkled with wildflowers" and "swim in cool, clear rivers."
Stowe, Vermont
The Stowe Recreation Path passes meadows, hills and a river
Summer in Stowe means trading in your skis for canoes and kayaks. During warmer months, adventurers can be found on the water and biking around this "classic" New England town, Lonely Planet said. The paved 5.3-mile Stowe Recreation Path is your riverside route to parks and swimming holes and leads from downtown Stowe to a covered bridge. On Sundays through mid-October, the Stowe Farmers' Market is buzzing with vendors offering fresh produce, cheese and meat, and artisans selling jewelry, purses and artwork.
Sun Valley, Idaho
The Big Wood River flows through Sun Valley and attracts fly fishers
In this laid-back destination, "every kind of outdoor enthusiast can find their slice of paradise," Travel and Leisure said. In the summer, golfers hit the links at the Trail Creek Golf Course, and fly fishers bring their lures to the Big Wood and Salmon rivers. Hikers flock to trails like Fox Creek, a "challenging" seven-mile loop in the Sawtooth National Forest, and for most of the summer Bald Mountain's gondolas whisk people to the top of the peak for more hiking, lunch at the lodge or to just enjoy the panoramic views.
Whistler, British Columbia
Citizens of Whistler celebrate the shift from skiing to mountain biking every May
In Whistler, the transition from skiing to mountain biking is such a big deal that it is celebrated each May during a day known as Whismas. The biking here is "almost as legendary as the skiing," Powder said, with "every type of terrain imaginable." Pros should carve out time for Top of the World, a tech trail that starts at the summit of Whistler Mountain and boasts "incredible views." To learn more about the area and its Indigenous history and culture, visit the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Center, where the "exhibitions, short films and drum music bursting forth all foster a sense of exploration," Condé Nast Traveler said.
A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com
Catherine Garcia has worked as a senior writer at The Week since 2014. Her writing and reporting have appeared in Entertainment Weekly, The New York Times, Wirecutter, NBC News and "The Book of Jezebel," among others. She's a graduate of the University of Redlands and the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.
-
5 attention-grabbing cartoons about Trump's distraction tactics
Cartoons Artists take on a musical diversion, an NFL team by any other name, and more
-
The Coldplay affair: a cautionary tale
In the Spotlight The pair became 'the most googled people on the planet' after getting caught having an affair at a Coldplay concert
-
Crossword: July 27, 2025
The Week's daily crossword puzzle
-
5 best movie sequels of all time
The Week Recommends The second time is only sometimes as good as the first
-
Food trails are the best trails. Eat your way across the US with these 7 regional food journeys.
The Week Recommends Take a bite out of the United States
-
Keep the fun going with these 7 subscription gift boxes
The Week Recommends Bring the party to their mailbox
-
Salt Lake City is coolest in summer not winter
The Week Recommends Hang out in the Maven District and bike your way around town
-
Yes, you can be outside this summer and avoid ticks. These are the tips to know.
The Week Recommends Don't get ticked off
-
Pals and loved ones always on the move? These are the gifts to give the constant travelers in your life.
The Week Recommends The best trip is the one that lives on and on
-
The best TV shows based on movies
The Week Recommends A handful of shows avoid derivative storytelling and craft bold narrative expansions
-
Bellagio: glitz and glamour on the Las Vegas Strip
The Week Recommends Find la dolce vita in the Nevada desert at this luxurious hotel