For those of us who love spending time outdoors, breathing fresh air and releasing pent up energy, nothing can be worse than living in an area with limited options. It may even be worth considering a move to a more outdoor-friendly area, but where might you find such a place? Below, we’ll look at the five best places for outdoor enthusiasts looking to relocate.
1. Seattle, Washington
While many of this city’s 637,850 residents might complain about the winters and the rainy season, this location still rates at the top for the activities it provides. Sunny days can be spent in one of the 44 nearby state parks or at one of the 19 beaches. Surrounded by water on two sides, kayaking, sailing, and boating are common activities in this maritime gem. Prefer the mountains? Seattle has those too in the form of Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens.
Though known for its rain, Seattle also offers abundant recreational opportunities.
2. Costa Mesa, California
This city of 111,635 has a smattering of five state parks in the area, but that’s not all California visitors, and locals love about the city. Costa Mesa boasts 47 beaches that play host to sun worshippers and water lovers all year long. Whether you love surfing or jogging the beach, this sunny town has plenty of options to spend the endless summer days.
3. Cambridge, Massachusetts
While most people associate Cambridge with MIT and Harvard, those prestigious universities are just one reason to come to this city of 106,844 people. According to Charlesgate Realty, Cambridge, and its neighbor Boston offers the ideal “launching pad” for those who love outdoor activity. With 43 state parks and 120 beaches close by, here there’s always something to do, whether it’s kayaking down the Charles River or biking at Cambridge Common. The rich history of this New England town also provides a host of tours and memorials to educate and entertain.
4. Austin, Texas
This city of 947,890 can get a little crowded, so it’s a good thing the area provides plenty of opportunities to get outside and take in the breathtaking state parks populating the area. Activities include spelunking, rock climbing, swimming, and hiking, so there’s always an opportunity to test your skills and explore the gifts nature has bestowed on this Southern city.
Set in the rolling hills of Central Texas, Austin has myriad activities for nature lovers. Go for a trail run on the greenbelt or paddle your kayak down the Colorado River through the heart of downtown.
5. Alexandria, Virginia
The 146,422 residents of Alexandria join frequent visitors in enjoying the 20 state parks and 19 beaches this city has to offer. Sitting on the shores of the Potomac River, Alexandria offers over 940 acres of outdoor parks and recreational centers. Possibly one of the biggest attractions may be the 17 mile Mount Vernon Trail. For those ambitious enough to take this hike, they’ll be rewarded by arriving at the estate of George Washington. Along the way, the trail intersects with the Potomac Heritage, Custis, Rock Creek, Four Mile Run, and Woodrow Wilson Bridge Trails.
6. Phoenix, AZ
This bustling city on the fringes of the Sonoran Desert is one of the ultimate places for those who love spending time outside. Though Phoenix itself sits in a valley, it’s surrounded by various mountain ranges that offer ample opportunities for hiking and trail running. We asked friends at a local moving company for their top trail recommendations. They say Camelback is a must-do for vacationers and first timers, and other popular hikes include the Lookout Mountain Summit Trail, Tom’s Thumb, and the Siphon Draw Trail.
While this is by no means a comprehensive list, these cities are among the best regarding providing maximum enjoyment for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the forests and mountains or the beaches and the waterways beyond, there’s always something to do in these areas. Pack a bag or a moving truck and head for the nearest interstate. You won’t regret it.
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