The United States is one of the world’s largest nations by area. Stretching from the vast frontier that is Alaska to the coast of the Pacific Ocean and then to the stores of the Atlantic Ocean, America offers a wide array of climates and landscapes for people to choose as their home. This is particularly true for those who love the outdoors. One of the most amazing things about living in the United States is just how easy it is to find places that feed your inner love of natural beauty and your desire to be surrounded by glorious natural wonders.
These locations span the entire country. Those who love urban life and the great outdoors can combine these two passions by picking cities designed with their needs in mind. If you’re looking for the best places to merge real-life responsibilities with a love of nature, here’s where you should consider moving.
1. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is one of the nation’s oldest cities. This historic city offers an incredible array of museums, major American revolutionary sites, and lots of wonderful things to eat. Boston also remains a place where the outdoors takes center stage all year long. The city is studded with parks that encourage walking yet still allow residents to celebrate the city’s history at the same time. The central location also means a chance to admire the surrounding area. Boston has many public beaches ideal for a chance to escape the area’s heat. During the summer, Cape Cod is a short drive away. That makes it easy to spend in the sun exploring one of the nation’s greatest national treasures.
2. Colorado and The Rocky Mountains
The state of Colorado is another place that belongs to any nature lover’s list. Located in the heart of the west, Colorado is a vibrant place ideal for people who want to enjoy the state’s lush landscape and beautiful mountains. The Rocky Mountains are visible from nearly every part of the state. That makes it easy for people to go climbing in the summer and skiing in the winter. The region’s high elevation means the air is cleaner and crisp than in many other parts of the state. This is the place for people who love the outdoors and want to admire it from every single angle. Real estate companies like Breckenridge Real Estate have a great eye on properties in this area as well, making the search for your next home that much easier.
3. Honolulu, Hawaii
The capital and largest city in Hawaii, Honolulu combines the best of many worlds in a single place. Make your home here and you’ll find a mild climate that residents love no matter the time of year. If you want to get even closer to nature, Hanauma Bay offers gentle waters and a chance to go snorkeling along with one of the area’s loveliest places. Learn to surf by Waikiki Beach. If you’re looking for more solitude, try the trails at Manoa Falls Trail where greenery and well-marked trails make it easy to appreciate all Hawaii has to show off.
4. Juneau, Alaska
As the nation’s most isolated capital, Juneau is one place that should be on any nature lover’s list. There are so many things to see and do right next to it. The Mendenhall Glacier actually lies within the city’s boundaries. Spend your weekends hiking up it by yourself or work with a local guide who can show you the ropes. You don’t have to be there to be outdoors. Grab a kayak and hit the waters in the area. They’re incredibly pristine. Watch as orca and other marine life cavort in front of you.
5. Mackinac Island, Michigan
Sitting in Lake Huron, Mackinac Island is one of those places mostly known by locals. In the summer, it comes alive with plenty of tourists. When they leave this four square mile area, the locals take over. Over the years, the island has come to the attention of the rest of the country. In fact, all of it is a National Historic Landmark. That makes it a charming place to settle no matter the time of year. Views of the lake are visible from nearly every single corner. The mild climate during the summer gives way to plenty of fun outdoor activities during the winter months.
6. Madison, Wisconsin
Madison is another place that has all you want in an outdoor place and more. Home to the University of Wisconsin at Madison, Madison has a vibrant, youthful feel. That means you can always find things to do such as games of frisbee and football. Head for Indian Lake Park for lots of trails that are easy on the body while showing off the best of the Wisconsin woods. Adults can also find activities geared for their personal interests. Wineries with wine tastings dot the fertile soil. These are activities that allow people to enjoy the region’s pleasingly brisk climate.
7. Portland, Maine
By far the largest city in Maine, Portland is an easy gateway to the rest of the state’s incredible array of natural wonders. There are so many islands in Casco Bay that can be easily reached from many parts of the community. The lovely bay that’s right next to the city means lots of chances to go fishing and boating. Right behind the city lies the state’s many lakes that are rarely visited by non-residents. This is a good home base from which to explore the entire state and much of the New England coast no matter the weather.
8. Reno, Nevada
Reno is one of those places that people think about rarely if at all. This is a good thing for locals happy to keep this town to themselves. Perched at the top of the state, Reno is a short trip to many fabulous places. Grab a boat and see Lake Tahoe. Emerald Bay is the ideal place for skiing. Galena Creek Recreation Area is another place for the outdoor enthusiast looking for a chance to see the state’s many pleasures in person. If you love to fish, head for the Truckee River and cast a line.
