I've been to several 'dupes' for Switzerland around the US, and none beat the Alpine feel of Washington's North Cascades

I went to a quieter Greek island instead of Mykonos and Santorini. I got beautiful beaches without fighting the crowds.

I visited a Maryland town in the 'new Hamptons.' This laid-back hidden gem is my new favorite vacation spot.

I love visiting the 'Napa of the Midwest.' It's an underrated gem with reasonable prices and fantastic wine.

I visited the 'Niagara of the West.' It's the perfect way to enjoy a breathtaking waterfall without overwhelming crowds.

The iconic Alpine landscape is unmatched in beauty and, unfortunately, also in price. It's one of the most expensive countries in the world, and traveling there costs a pretty penny.

High prices for flights, accommodations, meals, and entertainment mean I can't afford to visit Switzerland often from the US.

So, in a quest to find an equally charming — but less bank-breaking — alternative, I have taken trips to several destinations that people say feel like America's version of Switzerland.

Each offered breathtaking scenery and impressive mountain views, but one stood out as the best destination for an Alpine-style getaway.

Ouray and Telluride are lovely, but neither felt like a perfect Switzerland dupe

Ouray, Colorado, situated in the San Juan Mountains, is often referred to as the "Switzerland of America."

With an elevation of about 7,800 feet above sea level, this town in southwestern Colorado does offer some pretty epic mountain vistas.

I especially enjoyed climbing to Box Canyon Falls Park, which delighted me with views of waterfalls and a downtown area surrounded by soaring peaks.