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- Population: 149,013
- Median home value: $433,400
- Median rent: $1,645

The DuPage River runs through this Chicagoland suburb, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. In the summer, you can bike and run ; on snowy winter days, you'll see more snowshoers and cross-country skiers. The river is also , and you might even see wildlife like blue herons, river otters, and turtles.

- Population: 148,529
- Median home value: $194,100
- Median rent: $1,225

With several and a , Bridgeport is popular with boaters of all kinds. You can , or try for black sea bass, flounder, and other local fish. Thrill-seeking families can also try zip-lining on the aerial ropes course at the .

- Population: 235,764
- Median home value: $755,800
- Median rent: $2,094

Just across the Potomac from Washington D.C., Arlington has plenty of outdoor recreation on offer. Go hiking in , or take a more restful walk through the manicured rose gardens at . The city also has more than and public outdoor pickleball, tennis, and basketball courts at .

- Population: 166,788
- Median home value: $431,300
- Median rent: $1,443

This Colorado city is surrounded on nearly every side by protected lands. is just over an hour outside of the city, while , , and are even closer. Hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, skiing—almost any outdoor activity you can think of is easily accessible.

- Population: 2,742,119
- Median home value: $277,600
- Median rent: $1,209

Sure, Chicago may be the third most populous U.S. city, but it still offers plenty of opportunities to get outside. Chicago offers , including 18 miles of trails and more than two dozen public beaches. You can even try urban hiking on , a formerly abandoned elevated rail line that has since been transformed into a public park.

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- Population: 157,844
- Median home value: $530,100
- Median rent: $1,802

With the and the Santa Ana Mountains to the southwest, Corona has no shortage of nearby hikes. Take to an area known by locals as "Mini Moab," or climb up for sweeping views of the mountains. On a hot day, locals beat the heat by driving to nearby Lake Elsinore for a swim.

- Population: 313,818
- Median home value: $556,300
- Median rent: $1,726

This Orange County city is well situated near a variety of outdoor attractions. Hikers can hit the trail in , which also features an archery range, log cabin, and wildlife center. Driving about half an hour west will bring you to the Pacific Ocean at Seal Beach.

- Population: 158,185
- Median home value: $579,100
- Median rent: $1,848

Alexandria is packed with public parks, from the 50-acre woodland at to the outdoor classrooms at to the waterfall-filled oasis at . Sailors can also launch their boats from the , while bikers have the nearby to cycle. You don't even have to leave city limits to do any of it.

- Population: 314,858
- Median home value: $418,000
- Median rent: $1,568

This Southern California city boasts a surprising number of parks within its city limits. offers staff-led nature hikes on the first Saturday of every month, while hikers and trail runners can visit the site of the oldest outdoor nondenominational Easter Sunrise service in the United States at . Prefer tennis? Work on your forehand at one of the 10 championship tennis courts at .

- Population: 203,867
- Median home value: $259,800
- Median rent: $1,179

Massachusetts' second-largest city has lots of appeal for nature lovers thanks to a wide assortment of nearby parks. Bird watchers might want to visit , where shady woods and small streams provide a lovely habitat for all kinds of birds and other forest creatures. You can also hike through woods and meadows to spy vernal pools and the falls at or visit to swim, sail, or boat on the lake.

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- Population: 113,538
- Median home value: $328,500
- Median rent: $973

On the eastern bank of Utah Lake—the state's largest freshwater lake—Provo offers easy access to , a haven for boaters and campers. Provo locals can also take their pick from , including the scenic Bridal Veil Falls near the entrance of Provo Canyon, a stunning view of Mount Timpanogos from the Stewart Falls Trail, and the 3-mile climb to Kyhv Peak.

- Population: 138,771
- Median home value: $863,100
- Median rent: $1,904

Just south of the Angeles National Forest, Pasadena residents are within easy access to lots of beloved hiking trails. has a popular, relatively easy hike to its picturesque waterfalls, while more experienced hikers might choose to climb up nearby . If you prefer mountain biking, is another fan favorite.

- Population: 1,596,865
- Median home value: $184,100
- Median rent: $1,149

The City of Brotherly Love may be best known for historical landmarks like the Liberty Bell, but it's also home to plenty of outdoor recreation spots. Part of the 120-mile runs through Philadelphia, allowing joggers, bikers, and sightseers alike to get outdoors. The city also offers several urban green spaces as part of the system.

- Population: 196,512
- Median home value: $865,400
- Median rent: $1,835

Glendale lies just west of Pasadena, with a similarly hilly geography thanks to the nearby mountains. Hiking is equally popular here, with trails like the 5.5-mile and the good-for-birding among the most beloved. Golfers also have several courses to choose from, including public options and country clubs.

- Population: 683,154
- Median home value: $635,900
- Median rent: $1,681

The nation's capital is a great choice for the city dweller who also loves nature. You can do everything from horseback riding to trail running in , or hike part of the 184-mile , which starts in the district and runs along the edge of Georgetown and out into Maryland. For a less physically exhausting activity, admire the plants on display at the .

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- Population: 114,730
- Median home value: $258,100
- Median rent: $1,220

This New Hampshire city on the Merrimack River has plenty of all-season outdoor activities to offer locals. In the warmer months, you might fish at , play community sports in , or sail on . During the New England winter, skiing is the thing to do—and you don't even have to leave city limits to hit the slopes at .

- Population: 225,709
- Median home value: $236,300
- Median rent: $956

The state of Washington is known for its outdoor recreation, and Spokane is no exception. Camping, hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding are all offered at nearby and . Animal lovers might want to make the half-hour drive to , a 23,000-acre ecosystem that's home to wildlife, including 200 types of migrating waterfowl, moose, elk, porcupines, river otters, coyotes, cougars, and more.

- Population: 107,364
- Median home value: $837,900
- Median rent: $1,859

Though Burbank is perhaps best known as the home to several Hollywood studios, it also offers a surprising amount of hiking trails. Climbing Cahuenga Peak to see the —a lone pine that has become a geocaching location where hikers have left notes containing their hopes and dreams—is among the most popular. , , and are also local favorites.

- Population: 110,438
- Median home value: $394,900
- Median rent: $1,426

Located 30 miles north of Seattle, Everett sits on the eastern edge of the Possession Sound. For gorgeous views of the water, head to —it's a lovely spot for a picnic or afternoon stroll. If you're hoping to actually get into the water, take the ferry (or kayak!) to the sandy beaches on human-made Jetty Island. Alternatively, you can take in the flora and fauna at the .

- Population: 706,799
- Median home value: $459,100
- Median rent: $1,495

Given that the Mile High City is actually in the Rocky Mountains, it's no surprise that Denver is a paradise for outdoor adventurers. Of course, there is no shortage of or within easy driving distance, but you don't even have to leave the city to experience the outdoors. Try kayaking the human-made chutes at , rent a pedal boat in , or look for bald eagles in .

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- Population: 104,930
- Median home value: $790,100
- Median rent: $1,711

Just 30 miles from Denver, Boulder offers a similarly wide array of outdoor recreation options. Families might opt for the flat loop trail through a wildlife sanctuary, or try boating or water skiing at the city-owned . For hikers up for a bit more of a challenge, the —a steep climb to spectacular views of the rock formations Boulder is known for—is well worth the effort.

- Population: 127,922
- Median home value: $1,199,500
- Median rent: $2,652

This Bay Area city offers easy access to many biking and walking trails. serves as your entry point to the , where you can spot a wide variety of migratory birds. Bike through the park's 20.6 acres, or go for a walk or jog along the San Tomas Aquino trail.

- Population: 162,254
- Median home value: $653,500
- Median rent: $2,071

Bird-watchers will find some of the widest variety of species in the Bay Area at , a 6,400-acre wildlife refuge on the San Francisco Bay. Keep an eye out for egrets, herons, and sandpipers in the salt marshes, as well as mallards, ruddy ducks, Canada geese, and other waterfowl in the bay. The reserve even allows hunting on select days. Prefer mountains to bay views? Take the to climb up into the hills.

- Population: 139,195
- Median home value: $712,500
- Median rent: $1,972

Though the city of Orange is perhaps best known for its proximity to Disneyland, residents also have plenty of nearby outdoor activities to choose from. Orange boasts , ranging from sports centers and athletic facilities to rose gardens and walking paths. Cyclists can even bike the , a flat 8.5-mile path that's appropriate for kids and adults alike.

- Population: 155,550
- Median home value: $1,528,500
- Median rent: $2,837

Like other Bay Area cities, Sunnyvale also offers locals the ability to admire the region's wetlands. includes biking and hiking trails through 70 acres of developed parkland, as well as access to the encircling the bay. Golfers can also hit the links at the .

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- Population: 217,332
- Median home value: $347,100
- Median rent: $1,343

Located on the shoreline of Commencement Bay, Tacoma is a perfect place to get outdoors within view of Puget Sound. —a 760-acre urban park on high bluffs overlooking the sound—has dozens of activities to offer visitors, including , visiting the animals in the , and admiring the . On the other side of the bay, you'll find , a truly picturesque spot offering tours of the lighthouse and picnic tables overlooking Tacoma's busy port.

- Population: 127,274
- Median home value: $794,200
- Median rent: $2,303

With 14 hiking trails, is one of the most popular spots for outdoorsy people in Thousand Oaks. Don't miss the trail to Paradise Falls, a 40-foot cascade into a rugged canyon. Hiking the trail to Coba Arch near Simi Peak is another popular excursion, while the Gardens of the World is beloved by those who prefer a more relaxed outdoor experience.

- Population: 865,933
- Median home value: $1,194,500
- Median rent: $2,130

San Francisco is well-situated near plenty of spectacular natural beauty, including and , but you don't even have to leave the city to spend time outdoors. In Golden Gate Park, you can stroll through more than 1,000 acres of meadows, gardens, and lakes—and even spot a herd of bison. The is also chock-full of hiking and biking trails, including several with gorgeous views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay beyond.

- Population: 466,565
- Median home value: $614,900
- Median rent: $1,516

As you might guess from the city's name, the thing to do in Long Beach is, well, go to the beach! is great for families with young children since the shallow waters in Alamitos Bay are free of riptides. not only has a paved path for bikers and joggers but also offers beach volleyball courts and a consistent breeze that makes it great for wind- and kitesurfing. Dog owners won't want to miss , a 4-acre stretch of sand where pups can run freely off-leash.

- Population: 287,146
- Median home value: $437,200
- Median rent: $1,611

Just across the Hudson River from Lower Manhattan, Jersey City can sometimes play second fiddle to the Big Apple. The views of the Statue of Liberty from Liberty State Park are unparalleled, though—and are the reason the park is so popular with runners. Though it doesn't have the same scenery, Jersey City's Lincoln Park is also a local favorite, thanks to its many public courts for tennis, basketball, baseball, handball, and more.

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- Population: 199,153
- Median home value: $380,200
- Median rent: $1,141

The nearby Great Salt Lake isn't just Salt Lake City's namesake—it's also a fantastic spot for sailing, swimming, and sunbathing, not to mention spotting bison at . If hiking is more your speed, check out the stunning Bell Canyon Trail for gorgeous canyon scenery. Or, climb the 4,000-foot for a more challenging excursion.

- Population: 147,156
- Median home value: $840,900
- Median rent: $1,906

Locals flock to when they want some sun and surf. Everything from scuba diving to swimming to beach volleyball to surfing is allowed at this beach. For a view of more than just the Pacific Ocean, head to Del Cerro Park in nearby Rancho Palos Verdes. The hike to the top of the bluff offers a nearly panoramic look at the ocean, coastal headlands, and canyons.

- Population: 1,385,398
- Median home value: $664,000
- Median rent: $1,885

San Diego has a whopping , with no shortage of wonderful beaches to choose from. Admire the sea lions and sandstone cliffs at , catch a wave at or , or ride the wooden roller coaster at . If it's not quite warm enough to swim, spend the day exploring Balboa Park. The 1,200-acre park features a wide range of , in addition to a , the famed , and other cultural attractions.

- Population: 119,607
- Median home value: $1,111,000
- Median rent: $1,886

University of California Berkeley's is a popular place to spend a sunny afternoon. There are a few other outdoor activities in and around Berkeley, including rock climbing at Indian Rock Park and hiking, camping, or horseback riding in . For the best views in town, climb the Stonewall-Panoramic Trail in to get a bird's-eye view of Berkeley, Oakland, and even the Golden Gate Bridge on a clear day.

- Population: 348,204
- Median home value: $623,300
- Median rent: $1,823

Disneyland isn't the only park within Anaheim's city limits. In fact, this Orange County city is home to several parks, including , which features a year-round stream, three canyons, oak woodlands, and 4 miles of hiking trails. Golfers can hit a few balls at the driving range at , which is famous for being the setting of the world-record-setting hole-in-one made by a 93-year-old golfer in 1970. A young Tiger Woods even played the course in his high school days.

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- Population: 112,148
- Median home value: $841,700
- Median rent: $2,043

Just north of Newport Beach, Costa Mesa has a similar beachside setting—although it doesn't actually have any beaches of its own. Residents, however, do have nearby or Balboa Island to explore for beach days. For hiking and biking, head to , where you can explore six different plant zones on a series of trails.

- Population: 188,331
- Median home value: $343,900
- Median rent: $1,396

This Pacific Northwest city sits on Washington's southern border—right across the Columbia River from Portland, Oregon, in fact. Admire views of the river from the , or try your hand at windsurfing, kayaking, or canoeing on . Vancouver is also a short drive away from national forests and preserved wilderness, including excellent hiking at the , , and .

- Population: 259,913
- Median home value: $391,500
- Median rent: $1,213

Just under an hour's drive from stunning Lake Tahoe, Reno has no shortage of outdoor recreation options. Of course, the famed lake on the California-Nevada border has plenty of , water sports like , and to offer visitors. Equestrians can ride on a in the surrounding Sierra Nevadas, while heading east of Reno will bring you into the high desert, like at Hidden Valley Regional Park.

- Population: 437,548
- Median home value: $772,400
- Median rent: $1,676

Downtown Oakland may be as urban as it gets, but the city's eastern side abuts miles of preserves and parks. At , visitors can admire Round Top—not only one of the area's tallest peaks but also a leftover from a 10-million-year-old volcano. A few miles further south, features peaceful redwood groves, while holds a popular public campground.

- Population: 134,820
- Median home value: $550,600
- Median rent: $1,981

A popular home base for New York City commuters who don't love city life, Stamford offers a nautical beachside setting. Though you will need to pay for a to take advantage of them, the city's beaches on the Long Island Sound are beautifully clean. If long walks on the beach are your thing, check out , where the facilities include a scenic 1-mile loop trail. Families who just want fun in the sun might prefer , which includes amenities like volleyball courts and a fishing pier, as well as sand and surf.

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- Population: 134,890
- Median home value: $414,200
- Median rent: $1,612

This city on the south side of Seattle—conveniently located near SeaTac Airport—is a great starting point for trips all over the state of Washington. is about two and a half hours away, while is only a 1.5-hour drive. Kent also offers plenty of opportunities to get outside without leaving the city, including biking or jogging along the , hiking , and fishing at .

- Population: 297,868
- Median home value: $900,700
- Median rent: $2,533

In addition to several golf clubs—including the popular courses at and —Irvine has several wildlife and nature preserves just outside its borders. Anglers can fish the shoreline at , while bird watchers might want to check out the trails at . is another dedicated protected area: It's free to visit, but only through a like docent-led hikes, horseback rides, or bat-watching outings.

- Population: 1,013,337
- Median home value: $986,700
- Median rent: $2,366

Though San Jose is better known for its bustling downtown activities, like shopping on Santana Row or visiting the Winchester Mystery House, it also serves as a great launching point for outdoor recreation in the wilderness to the city's east. Many acres of the Santa Clara foothills are protected wilderness, offering plenty of ways to get outdoors. Hike or horseback ride in , fish at , or take the nearly 10-mile loop trail at .

- Population: 116,892
- Median home value: $888,000
- Median rent: $2,388

The home of not one, but two elite universities (Harvard and MIT), Cambridge embodies the collegiate spirit. On any given morning, you're likely to see crews rowing the Charles River. In fact, you can even join them in the annual —or just watch from the banks. You can also rent to go out on the river solo or with a friend. When the leaves begin to change in the fall, you're going to want a scenic walk through Cambridge. Head to to stroll the 2.25-mile loop around the pond, or take your pup to .

- Population: 672,814
- Median home value: $610,400
- Median rent: $1,783

The best-known walk in Boston is undoubtedly the , a pedestrian path to various historic sites dating back to the Revolutionary War. That's mainly in the city center, though: If you prefer a bit more open space, bike the . To feel properly lost in nature, get out of the city for a day hike in —which offers an impressive 125 miles of trails through marshes and meadows—or at , a coastal preserve with Frederick Law Olmsted-designed carriage paths.

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- Population: 8,736,047
- Median home value: $660,700
- Median rent: $1,579

The Big Apple may be a concrete jungle, but it does feature tons of green space, including , , and , just to name a few. New York City also has several beaches, like surfer-friendly Rockaway Beach and family-favorite . You can sail, Jet Ski, and even kayak on the Hudson River, or rent bikes to cycle almost all the way around Manhattan on the . And don't forget all of the spectacular outdoor activities a short drive or train ride from the city, including nearby hikes like and .

- Population: 149,365
- Median home value: $951,200
- Median rent: $2,220

This affluent Seattle suburb is known for being near the home of famous entrepreneurs like Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos. However, Bellevue also has plenty to offer outdoor enthusiasts, too. Kayakers and paddleboarders can paddle out into , where birders might catch a glimpse of great blue herons. Just south of Bellevue, Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park is beloved for its excellent hiking and trail running through mature second-growth forests. A little farther afield, the ascent to offers stunning views of Rattlesnake Lake and the Cascade Mountains.

- Population: 647,176
- Median home value: $462,800
- Median rent: $1,406

With top-notch skiing at Mount Hood to the east and breathtaking camping spots like in the Northern Coast Range to the west, Portland is a great home base for people who want to get outside. The city itself boasts plenty of opportunities to spend time in nature, including hiking the trail from —a local favorite thanks to its sweeping views of the city.

You can also rent kayaks to take out on the Willamette River, or boat to for the day. But perhaps the most special experience you can have on the water in Portland is boating or kayaking through one of the country's largest urban wetlands in , where you can spot beavers, black-tailed deer, river otters, bald eagles, osprey, and Western painted turtles.

- Population: 3,902,440
- Median home value: $705,900
- Median rent: $1,641

From beaches to hills, LA's sprawling urban footprint contains a wide range of natural landscapes. Enjoy the sand and surf Southern California is known for at , , or . For a classically Los Angeles experience, hike high into the hills at to catch a glimpse of the Hollywood Sign. Or, if you prefer hiking with an ocean breeze, climb the in Topanga State Park to catch sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean.

- Population: 726,054
- Median home value: $767,500
- Median rent: $1,801

Seattle takes the top spot on the list of the best places to live for outdoorsy folks, thanks to its proximity to both world-class national parks and forests and excellent recreation within its city limits. Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier National Park have already been mentioned on this list, and they're certainly a draw for Seattleites—but they aren't the only beautiful spots nearby.

Seattle's offers city dwellers a chance to get outside within the city, with miles of walking trails, two tidal beaches, active sand dunes, and more to explore. It would be remiss not to mention Lake Washington itself, which becomes a hot spot for in the summer.

Data reporting by Elena Cox. Story editing by Jeff Inglis. Copy editing by Tim Bruns.

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