As far as the actual historical town, I prefer it at night. It's kind of corny, but I've enjoyed the ghost tours there.

Some good hikes that give you nice views of the town and the valley, but it's been too long to remember exactly where those were.

I will say I toured the town with family on a hot summer day and it was misery. We got the hell out of there.

EDIT: Also, not sure what you mean by earthy, but if you're asking about the people, they are DEFINITELY not hippies. Its rednecks. And they probably view John Brown as insane at best.

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