Written by Bethany Hemsley,
Last Modified: 23rd November 2023

When it comes to the great outdoors, the USA has it in abundance. So when you move or have a home in the USA, every day can be an active adventure. Here we highlight a few areas with stunning landscapes that offer an adventurous and active lifestyle in the USA. 

Your free Emigration Guide will give you all the information you need about moving to the USA.

Sacramento County, California

Northern California boasts some of the most spectacular landscapes in the whole of the United States, with the Sierra Nevada, Cascade Mountains, Yosemite National Park and Lake Tahoe among just some of its natural treasures.

Sacramento County is a fantastic base to explore the state. California is huge, but Sacramento’s superb location would put you just 2 hours from both San Francisco and Lake Tahoe, and just over 3 and a half hours from Yosemite.

It’s a lovely place to raise a family with great schools, beautiful lakes, over 100 acres of parkland and brilliant golfing and sailing opportunities.

Average property price =  $514,818 (based on data from Zillow)

The beautiful Lake Tahoe, just 2 hours from Sacramento County.

Sarasota, Florida

Often described as Florida’s ‘cultural coast’, Sarasota is a vibrant city just south of Tampa. It is one of Florida’s main Gulf Coast cities and enjoys stunning beaches with white sand and delightfully warm water. It is actually home to two of America’s best beaches, Siesta Key and Lido Beach, and is perfect for lovers of water sports, sailing and swimming.

Those who like to get out and about will also enjoy strolling through the beautiful botanical gardens and State Park, or discovering the plethora of museums and galleries.

Sarasota has its own airport, Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport, making trips between the UK and US incredibly easy.

Average property price = $462,176 (based on data from Zillow)

The gorgeous white sand Siesta Key beach.

Denver, Colorado

Capital of Colorado, Denver is a nature-lover’s dream. Ideally located just 12 miles from the famous Rocky Mountains, the opportunities for outdoor activities are endless.

There are around 355 miles of hiking trails within the Rocky Mountain National Park, many of which lead to jaw dropping alpine lakes and waterfalls. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some bighorn sheep and elk on your travels.

Colorado enjoys all the seasons and is a great summer and winter destination. Much of the Rocky Mountain National Park is covered in snow from December through to May, so it is a great place to try your hand at some snow sports. Popular winter activities include exploring the park by snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.

Denver itself also has a lot to offer. Each of the city’s neighbourhoods has a character of its own, with plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants. There is also a lot of green space, parks and gardens to walk and cycle around.

Average property price = $558,402 (based on data from Zillow)

City skyline of Denver Colorado with Rocky Mountains and the City Park Lake

Idaho Falls, Idaho

Idaho Falls, as the name would suggest, is a wonderful city in Idaho set on a beautiful 600-foot-wide waterfall. It is a brilliant place for active expats, particularly those who enjoy a scenic walk.

There is a vast river that runs through the middle of the city, called Snake River, which has a lovely 14-mile walkway that takes you past majestic trees, a floating bridge and the spectacular falls. Throughout the rest of the city you’ll find more than 30 miles of trails, a bustling market and several museums.

Just outside of the city are some great areas for camping, hiking and fishing, and there are two excellent ski resorts just under an hour’s drive. Popular Jackson’s Hole in Wyoming is also around two hours from Idaho Falls.

Average property price = $366,972 (based on data from Zillow)

The magnificent Idaho Falls, Idaho

Provo, Utah

Provo is a delightful town located between Utah Lake and the Wasatch Mountains. It is perfect for those looking for a peaceful lifestyle with unbeatable natural surroundings.

The town is filled with quaint antique shops, traditional bookshops and excellent restaurants, and when you’re ready for an adventure, you’ll find water sports, hiking, fly fishing and skiing all within a short drive.

The magnificent Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest is on Provo’s doorstep, where there are more than 1,700 miles of trails for hiking and cycling.

Average property price = $459,320 (based on data from Zillow)

Charming downtown Provo, Utah

Download the USA Property Guide

Download your free USA property guide

Our guide to buying a house in America is readily available online, but you can also a PDF version to view when you're offline or print. Simply fill in the form to the right and you'll be able to download your free copy.

  • Ask the right questions
  • Avoid the legal pitfalls
  • Find your property
  • Avoid losing money
  • Move in successfully

Download your free USA property guide

  • We handle your data with care and only ever as outlined in our Privacy Policy.

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Pin It on Pinterest