Urban life may be losing its allure in America. At least 1.2 million Americans have already fled some of the most densely-packed cities for quieter suburban or rural communities between 2020 and 2022. Plus, surveys suggest that an increasing percentage of Americans would prefer living in rural areas rather than a bustling urban center. Whether you want to leave city life entirely or you’re seeking a temporary getaway in nature, owning a cabin could offer the perfect escape from the modern world’s stressors.
What Are The Best Destinations For A Cabin? Exceptional Areas In America For Quiet Cabin Living
While the idea of an idyllic cabin is attractive to many property investors, choosing where to set up this heavenly hideaway can be challenging. Honestly, there are many fantastic locations with cabins for sale, but a few states have a better reputation for offering stunning views and exceptional recreational opportunities. Anyone interested in the potential of a cabin investment but isn’t sure where to settle down should consider a few hot locales when building their nature retreat wishlist.
The Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina
With its iconic mist-covered peaks and wooded forest scenery, The Great Smoky Mountains region is arguably the most stereotypical area to invest in a cabin. The sights and smells you likely associate with rustic cabin life — including rocking chairs in front of mountain tops, fresh pine leaves, and warm fireplaces just beckoning for s’mores — can be found in this recreation-filled area. As a bonus, since the Great Smoky Mountains is such a tourist-heavy park, you can access all the conveniences and attractions in towns like Gatlinburg without forfeiting your tranquility. While this zone on the Tennessee–North Carolina border isn’t “off the beaten path,” there are plenty of reasons why cabins in The Great Smoky Mountains are incredibly desirable real estate.
White Mountains, New Hampshire
With the name “White Mountains,” you might assume cabins for sale here are only for skiing enthusiasts. While it’s true this New Hampshire retreat has a high reputation for ski resorts, you don’t have to be a winter sports buff to enjoy a log cabin retreat here. For example, people who own log cabins in the White Mountains get access to stunning views of the world-renowned autumn leaves right in their backyard on a well-maintained network of trails. Staying in the White Mountains also gives you easy access to many fantastic tourist attractions, including scenic train rides, theme parks, and aerial trams. So, no matter what season you choose to visit, a secluded cabin in this Northeastern state will offer a fresh experience.
Black Hills, South Dakota
Wouldn’t it be cool to say you’ve got Mount Rushmore in your backyard? Well, with a cabin in Black Hills, you’ll have easy access to one of America’s most photographed attractions, including all of the amenities offered at both Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Custer State Park. Thanks to the proximity to these world-renowned attractions, a Black Hills cabin has many activities and natural opportunities to offer cottage owners, including hiking, fishing, and hunting. Black Hills also includes the bustling tourist town of Deadwood with its historic architecture, exceptional restaurants, and shops — perfect for those who need to frequently return to civilization. With all these tourist-friendly attractions at your doorstep, who could get bored with a cabin in the Black Hills?
Northern Wyoming
If it’s vast and stunning views you’re after, it doesn’t get better than northern Wyoming. With Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, this region is famous for its expansive forests, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife for viewing and hunting. Fishing enthusiasts will also love owning a cabin in this region to take advantage of the many opportunities to reel in species like bass, muskie, and walleye. For the grand finale, cabin owners in northern Wyoming can bask under the stars on camping expeditions (and they may even spot the awe-inspiring aurora borealis!).
Steamboat Springs, Colorado
We’ll admit, this suggestion is primarily for the winter sports enthusiasts. Often called “Ski Town, USA,” Steamboat Springs is legendary for its trademarked “champagne powder” snow, offering visitors some of North America’s best skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Beyond the slopes, this area has plenty of other outdoor opportunities in Colorado’s cold season, including horseback riding, snowmobile excursions, and ice skating rinks. But don’t think Steamboat Springs doesn’t have anything to offer during the warmer months. There are plenty of live music events, hiking trails, biking treks, and kayaking explorations near a Steamboat Springs cabin. While Steamboat Springs is exceptional for all you extreme skiing enthusiasts, it still has much to love for anyone interested in cabins.
Poconos, Pennsylvania
Thanks to its proximity to major metro areas like Philadelphia and New York City, the Poconos has long been a preferred nature retreat for East Coast city-dwellers. This lovely slice of northeastern Pennsylvania is well known for its rolling hills and serene lakes, giving it a remote and peaceful vibe perfect for unplugging and relaxing on your cabin property. But don’t think there’s nothing to do in the Poconos! Whether hiking and kayaking in the summer or snowboarding and snowshoeing in the winter, you can find plenty of recreational opportunities near your Poconos property.
Find The Cabins For Sale Right For Your Situation
Wherever you currently live or plan to move to, America’s vast and varied landscape offers plenty of tempting locations for a cabin retreat. Some areas have a longer history and greater reputation for cabin properties, but choosing the perfect location will always depend on your desires and financial considerations.
Whether you’re investing primarily for personal use as a vacation chalet or you want your cabin to serve as a potential passive income stream, you’ll need to consider the opportunities and reputation of different areas before deciding where to seriously investigate a cabin property. While choosing the perfect acreage for your needs can take a lot of time, planning, and research, it’s well worth the effort once you settle into your cabin.