The two great mountain chains of North America are the Appalachians and the Rockies. Between them, they offer some of the most beautiful scenery and most breathtaking mountain views in the world. Both are ideal vacation destinations for those who love nature. Below is a comparison of the two.

The Call of the Rockies

The Rocky Mountains are perhaps the more famous of the two, in part because of their height and breadth. They run for more than 3,000 miles through the Western U.S., Mexico, and Canada, and are comprised of dozens of subranges. These include the Bighorns, the Sierra Madres, and the Sangre de Cristos. They reach staggering peaks of more than 14,000 feet and are a playground for young people in search of exceptional skiing as well as rugged individuals seeking breathing room, mountain views, and wide-open spaces. Outside of a few major towns, the Rockies are largely distant and remote. Of the two great ranges, they are the younger and the wilder.

The Lure of the Appalachians

The Appalachian Mountains, on the other hand, are less imposing but no less scenic for their smaller size. They offer spectacular mountain views at elevations of nearly 7,000 feet along their 1,500-mile stretch from Central Alabama to Newfoundland. They are much, much older than the Rockies, having formed more than 480 million years ago. They are comprised of several, well-known subranges like the Blue Ridge and the Smokies. They are perhaps the oldest mountain range on Earth. They are more densely populated than the Rockies, with quaint towns and villages clinging to the rocks and nestled in the "hollers." The Appalachians are a tourist's dream, filled with both natural and man-made attractions.

If the Appalachians are your vacation destination this year, get in touch with Mountain Aire Cottages & Inn, located in Clayton, GA, in the heart of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. They offer an exquisite mountain view and numerous activities, including rafting, hiking, waterfall exploration, and tours of local wineries. Visit their website to see a map or submit an information request. Call (706) 782-9568 to book accommodations.