The Most Beautiful Lake Towns For Summer

Missing out on lake town holidays is equivalent to missing out on some of the best boating, sailing and paddling opportunities.
This post was published on the now-closed HuffPost Contributor platform. Contributors control their own work and posted freely to our site. If you need to flag this entry as abusive, send us an email.

Summertime is usually associated with ocean-front beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and laying on lounges by a pool with colorful cocktails. For many, this is an ideal way to spend a vacation which, however, overshadows an unconventional way to have fun and relax- in a lake town.

Seneca, South Carolina

Beautiful Lake Towns for Summer

Swimming in cool, clear blue waters can be more pleasant than dipping in the warm sea swamped with seaweed. Missing out on lake town holidays is equivalent to missing out on some of the best boating, sailing and paddling opportunities.

Lake towns are also less crowded and much cheaper than ocean retreats. Consider spending a week or two in a quintessential American lake town without breaking the bank and having even more fun because you can participate in adventurous activities such as hiking, zip lining, diving, and kayaking.

When it comes to outdoor recreation and even beachside relaxation, America's lake towns have what you need. These charming locales - from Maine and Vermont to California and Alaska - boast some of the most stunningly scenic landscapes in the entire country.

- Hristina Byrnes The Active Times

Also on HuffPost:

Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is known for being one of the best ski resorts in the world. Snuggled between the Rockies, this charming small mountain town is a favorite summer destinations as well. Try skeet shooting or go on a thrilling river tour. With summits higher than 14,000 feet, there is always something to see and explore. Festivals showing off art, wine and music are scheduled year-round, many in the summer. Visit Maroon Bells, one of the most photographed peaks in the country, take your family summer camping in the wilderness, or go ballooning and paragliding.Photo Credit: PixabayClick Here to See Incredible Mountain Towns for Summer
Lake Placid, New York
Lake Placid, which is set in the Adirondacks, has a rich winter sports history but it also offers many summer activities. The Olympic Center is open, offering bobsled and luge rides with a professional. Hiking is the most popular activity when it gets warm, with trails for every skill level. Many nearby waterways are perfect for paddling—whether that be by canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Paddle around Mirror Lake, enjoy a concert at Mid’s Parks and relax in one of the city’s many spas and wellness centers.Photo Credit: Shuterstock
Stowe, Vermont
If you are looking for a low key getaway with some outdoor access, the charming mountain town of Stowe, situated in a valley between peaks of the Green Mountains, is your destination. Hike to a beautiful waterfall with swimming holes or wade in local rivers and fly fish. If you’re new to the sport, there are clinics and outfitters available. Drive the back roads to Mount Mansfield for some gorgeous views and go on a canoe trip to Boyden Valley Winery. Long hiking and biking trails will also keep you active.Photo Credit: ThinkstockClick Here to See Incredible Mountain Towns for Summer
Whitefish, Montana
The mild weather during the summer months in Whitefish makes this small town, nearby the Glacier National Park, a perfect destination to escape the heat. Explore the Aerial Adventure Park and see if you can handle its five courses of varying difficulties. You will be crossing suspended bridges and cable walk ways, climbing on nets and ladders, swinging on trapezes and tube traverses and zip lining. Take a walk through the canopy of an old-growth Montana forest or an art class in town.Photo Credit: Thinkstock
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise. With its proximity to National parks like Grand Teton and Yellowstone, access to the National Elk Refuge and it’s placement among practically endless public lands, there’s no shortage of trails, waters and wildlife to discover. Paddle the Snake River, which has sections calm enough for kids and others exciting enough for adrenaline junkies, or head out on a wildlife safari. Horseback riding, whitewater rafting and blue-ribbon fly-fishing are other favorite activities. When you’re ready for a break, check out some of the art galleries in town, watch a live outdoor concert in Teton Village or experience the Wild West nightlife at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. Click Here to See Incredible Mountain Towns for SummerPhoto Credit: Thinkstock

Popular in the Community

Close

HuffPost Shopping’s Best Finds

MORE IN LIFE