I'm going to go against the grain and recommend where I live because I love it and don't want to deprive someone of this great place. Bellingham seems exactly like what you're looking for, tons of nature and lots of great breweries although not the friendliest people. Not like they are mean but just tend to keep to themselves so it can be hard to make friends. There are lots of community events though.

If I were in your shoes though I would go for glacier or mazama, really get out in the wilderness and away from any kind of city.