How about Ellensburg, WA. Small town with a college. Lots of rock climbing potential in Leavenworth, Frenchman Coulee and the Yakima crags. Close to the cascades and skiing, mountaineering, etc. It's located on the east side so the weather (in my opinion) is better than the rain on the west side. Four seasons (hot in the summer, cold in the winter) but not much in the way of snow. Also, if you're into fishing Ellensburg is near some of the best in the state. I have no idea what the cost of living is.