12 Family Friendly U.S. Cabin Towns With Nearby Trails and Reasonable Nightly Rates
A family-friendly cabin vacation offers the chance to unplug and enjoy nature together. With many towns located near popular hiking trails, these destinations are perfect for outdoor activities. The affordable cost of accommodations makes them even more appealing for families on a budget. Whether you are looking to hike, fish, or simply relax, these towns have something for every type of traveler.
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Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg, located near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is a prime destination for families looking to explore nature. The town provides easy access to countless hiking trails, including the popular Laurel Falls Trail and Alum Cave Bluff Trail. Visitors can stay in cozy cabins nestled in the mountains, with plenty of options for affordable rentals. The town also offers family-friendly attractions like the Ripley’s Aquarium and Ober Gatlinburg, making it a well-rounded destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for a bit of fun off the trails.
The Great Smoky Mountains provide a stunning backdrop to your stay, with opportunities for wildlife watching, picnicking, and even fishing in the nearby streams. Cabins here range from rustic to more modern, ensuring there is something for every budget. The town is well known for its fall foliage, so it can get busy during peak seasons, but there are always quieter spots to enjoy. If your family loves nature but also wants easy access to local attractions, Gatlinburg is a great choice.
Estes Park, Colorado
Nestled at the base of Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is a peaceful mountain town perfect for family vacations. This destination offers easy access to a variety of hiking trails, including the Bear Lake Trail and the easier, family-friendly Lily Lake Trail. Affordable cabin rentals provide a cozy base for your family to return to after a day of exploring the park. The charming downtown area offers plenty of shops, local restaurants, and even a few mini-golf courses to enjoy.
Rocky Mountain National Park offers something for every level of adventurer, from easy walks to more challenging hikes. With its affordable cabin options, Estes Park ensures that your family can enjoy a memorable trip without breaking the bank. In addition to hiking, families can enjoy activities like fishing, wildlife watching, and scenic drives. Estes Park is an ideal place for families seeking an outdoor experience with a mix of serenity and local attractions.
Lake Tahoe, California
Lake Tahoe is a beautiful destination that offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and outdoor recreation for families. The area is surrounded by numerous hiking trails, including the scenic Eagle Lake Trail and the Mount Tallac Trail, suitable for families of all levels. Cabins by the lake provide an excellent place to relax, with many options available for families on a budget. Besides hiking, families can enjoy activities such as boating, swimming, and cycling along the lake’s shore.
During the winter months, Lake Tahoe is a fantastic destination for snow sports, with plenty of skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Affordable cabins allow families to enjoy the area year-round without excessive costs. The area also offers numerous parks and picnic spots, ideal for a day out with the family. With breathtaking views and a wide range of outdoor activities, Lake Tahoe is an all-seasons destination for outdoor-loving families.
Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a laid-back town that provides easy access to a variety of scenic trails in the Pisgah National Forest. The town is perfect for families who enjoy hiking, with trailheads like the Looking Glass Rock Trail offering incredible views. Cabins near Asheville are available at affordable prices, with options to suit a range of family sizes. The town itself is known for its vibrant arts scene and plenty of family-friendly activities, including a trip to the North Carolina Arboretum.
Pisgah National Forest is a treasure trove of natural wonders, from waterfalls to wildlife. Families can spend their days hiking or simply soaking in the views while enjoying a picnic at one of the many accessible locations. With an active arts community and plenty of nearby attractions, Asheville offers more than just outdoor adventures. The town’s proximity to the national forest makes it an easy base for a nature-filled family getaway.
Bend, Oregon
Bend is an outdoor lover’s paradise, offering easy access to stunning trails in the Cascade Mountains and Deschutes National Forest. The town is known for its family-friendly hiking spots, such as the Tumalo Falls Trail and the Deschutes River Trail, which offer scenic views of the river and forest. Cabins around Bend are relatively affordable, especially during the shoulder seasons, making it an excellent option for families. In addition to hiking, Bend also offers activities like kayaking, cycling, and tubing, which are perfect for active families.
The town is also known for its kid-friendly attractions, including the High Desert Museum and the Bend River Promenade. After a day on the trails, families can unwind in one of the town’s many parks or explore the local breweries, many of which offer family-friendly patios. The mix of outdoor activities and family-friendly amenities makes Bend an ideal place for families seeking adventure and relaxation. With its gorgeous mountain backdrop and numerous trails, Bend is the perfect cabin getaway.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole, located near Grand Teton National Park, is a town that offers families a fantastic mix of adventure and comfort. Hiking trails, such as the Taggart Lake Trail and the Jenny Lake Trail, provide incredible views of the Teton Range, with plenty of spots for family-friendly hiking. Cabins in Jackson Hole are available at a range of prices, with options for families looking to stay in the heart of the action or those preferring a more secluded experience. In addition to hiking, the town offers fishing, rafting, and horseback riding.
Grand Teton National Park offers miles of trails through stunning landscapes, with easy access from Jackson Hole. Families can spend their days exploring the park, wildlife watching, or simply enjoying the fresh mountain air. Jackson Hole’s close proximity to both the park and the nearby Yellowstone National Park ensures there is no shortage of outdoor activities. Whether you are hiking the trails or relaxing in your cabin, Jackson Hole offers a true Wyoming adventure.
Boone, North Carolina
Boone, located in the Appalachian Mountains, offers easy access to both scenic hiking trails and outdoor fun. The nearby Blue Ridge Parkway has countless trailheads that cater to families, with accessible hikes like the Price Lake Trail offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Cabins in the area are affordable, with options available for both short and extended stays. The town’s proximity to Appalachian State University also provides plenty of cultural attractions and events, making it an interesting spot for families.
The town itself is known for its welcoming atmosphere and variety of local eateries, perfect for winding down after a day of hiking. Boone also offers access to other outdoor activities, such as zip-lining, kayaking, and mountain biking, all of which are family-friendly. Families can enjoy a peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty while also having access to the amenities and attractions of the town. With affordable cabins and countless outdoor adventures, Boone is a must-visit destination for families looking to explore the Appalachian Mountains.
Lake Placid, New York
Lake Placid is a well-known destination for families seeking both outdoor adventure and history. Nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, the town is surrounded by beautiful trails, including the family-friendly Mount Jo Trail and the more challenging Cascade Mountain Trail. Cabins around Lake Placid provide a cozy retreat after a day of hiking or exploring the area. The town also offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and cross-country skiing in the winter months.
Lake Placid is famous for hosting the Winter Olympics twice, which adds to its charm and appeal for families. In addition to outdoor recreation, families can enjoy the Olympic Sports Complex or take a walk around Mirror Lake, which offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains. The area has a range of affordable accommodations, making it accessible for families of all budgets. Whether visiting in summer or winter, Lake Placid provides an unforgettable family experience.
Flagstaff, Arizona
Flagstaff, Arizona, is an excellent base for families looking to explore the great outdoors. With its close proximity to the Grand Canyon, families can enjoy hiking the South Rim or take shorter hikes such as the Bright Angel Trail. Cabins around Flagstaff offer affordable options, especially during off-peak times. In addition to hiking, Flagstaff offers a variety of attractions such as the Lowell Observatory and the Arizona Snowbowl ski resort in winter.
The town is located in the high desert, offering cool summer temperatures, which make it an ideal summer getaway for families. Families can also explore nearby natural wonders such as Sedona’s red rock formations or take a scenic drive along the Route 66 corridor. Flagstaff is an outdoor lover’s dream, with endless opportunities for hiking, stargazing, and wildlife watching. Whether you are visiting in summer or winter, Flagstaff offers a wonderful family escape.
Leadville, Colorado
Leadville is a historic mining town in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. It offers easy access to hiking trails like the Mineral Belt Trail and the challenging Mount Elbert Trail, which leads to the highest peak in Colorado. Cabins in the area are affordable, making Leadville a great choice for families who want to stay close to nature without spending a fortune. The town itself is filled with history and charm, with museums and preserved historical buildings.
Leadville’s unique high-altitude setting provides families with a peaceful, scenic environment for outdoor exploration. The town is known for its mountain biking and hiking opportunities, with trails suitable for all levels. In addition to outdoor activities, Leadville hosts family-friendly events like the Leadville Boom Days festival. Whether you are hiking, biking, or simply exploring the town, Leadville provides a welcoming retreat for families seeking adventure in the Colorado Rockies.
Durango, Colorado
Durango offers easy access to the San Juan Mountains, making it a prime spot for families seeking adventure. Trails like the Animas River Trail provide stunning views while remaining easy enough for young hikers. Cabins in the area are reasonably priced, ensuring that families can enjoy a peaceful retreat without overspending. The town itself offers a mix of outdoor activities and local attractions, including the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
Durango is also home to the Mesa Verde National Park, where families can explore ancient cliff dwellings and learn about Native American history. The town’s historic downtown features shops, restaurants, and galleries, making it a fun place to stroll after a day of hiking. Whether you enjoy biking, hiking, or exploring history, Durango provides a balanced getaway. With affordable cabins and plenty of outdoor activities, it’s an ideal choice for families.
Sandpoint, Idaho
Sandpoint is a picturesque lakeside town that offers families a peaceful, scenic setting for outdoor adventures. The town provides access to trails like the Long Bridge Trail and the scenic Lake Pend Oreille shoreline, both of which offer easy hikes for families. Cabins in the area are cozy and affordable, with many offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. In addition to hiking, families can enjoy water activities like swimming, kayaking, and fishing.
The town itself offers a charming atmosphere, with local restaurants and shops adding to its appeal. Sandpoint is also known for its excellent skiing at Schweitzer Mountain Resort, which makes it a great year-round destination. Families can enjoy the fresh mountain air, clear waters, and easy-going pace of life in Sandpoint. Whether you are exploring the trails or simply relaxing by the lake, this town provides a wonderful retreat for families seeking adventure.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.