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Great Wide Open Adventure: 5 Best Cities for Outdoor Adventurers
It can be a challenge for outdoor enthusiasts to ever get enough of the splendor of nature. Whether you love hiking, biking, canoeing, skiing, or having other outdoor adventures, it’s possible to make experiencing these things a part of your routine. The following cities are the best places to live for those who seek an outdoorsman’s paradise.
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is a gorgeous place to live, and it’s actually the biggest city in Western North Carolina. So why is it the best place for outdoors lovers? Well, it is also situated near some of the most pristine areas in the country. In fact, “The Hunger Games” was filmed here in part because of its natural beauty. The Blue Ridge Mountains surround Asheville, offering opportunities for climbing, hiking, and exploring. The city is also near the Great Smoky Mountains and the Pisgah National Forest.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole is a gorgeous place to live that lies on the valley floor between the Snake River and the scenic Teton Mountain Range. Since it borders the Grand Teton National Park and is within only a short driving distance of the Yellowstone National Park, you can have grand outdoor adventures every day when you live in this underrated area. Its own Snow King allows you to enjoy skiing, snow tubing, and snowshoeing in the winter, while opportunities abound for hiking, biking, rafting, and otherwise exploring the mountains in warmer months.
Mobile, Alabama
As a historical port city on the Gulf Coast, Mobile is a mecca for those who want the benefits of a big city without giving up the charm of a lovely Southern town. Its nicknames, such as Azalea City and The Port City, hint at the beauty of its wide open spaces. Mobile is only minutes away from miles of white sand beaches, and its subtropical climate and mild weather throughout much of the year attracts outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
North Conway, New Hampshire
While you may not have heard of North Conway before, it’s the sort of place that you won’t forget once you experience its scenic wonders. North Conway is considered a village within the larger town of Conway, and the White Mountain National Forest can be explored to the north and west of the area. In fact, Mount Washington, which is the highest mountain peak in the Northeast United States, is located here, making it an especially popular spot for mountain climbing enthusiasts.
Portland, Oregon
Portland is a clean, beautiful city, known as a mecca for vegetarians and nature lovers alike. Nicknamed Rose City for its many rose gardens, including the International Rose Test Garden, it should be no surprise that it’s one of the most beautiful cities in the United States. Portland is situated on the Columbia River and the Willamette River, which provide plenty of opportunities for canoeing and exploring. Biking trails, walking trails, and spacious parks are available in and around the city, too.
When you’re considering the best cities to suit your needs, be sure to look for the most vibrant environmental factors. A city that doesn’t have organized outdoor activities may still be a perfect fit when you can go hiking and canoeing in the pristine beauty of nature. Trust your own judgment and preferences when finding the best place for you and your family to live.
