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Embarking on the journey to own a mountain cabin is a timeless American dream. Whether it's a cozy one-bedroom nestled in the Ozarks or an A-frame overlooking the Yampa River, the allure of these retreats has captivated many. In the wake of a pandemic-induced real estate frenzy, the dream of affordable mountain living seemed distant, but as the market shifts, so do the possibilities. Join us as we explore five mountainous havens handpicked for their charm, affordability (under $250,000), and proximity to outdoor adventures.
Interested in exploring vacation homes in one of these markets? I can connect you with the top agents in these areas; they work primarily by referral. Contact me at groeder@livsir.com for an introduction.
1. Jasper, Arkansas, and the Ozark Mountains:
Past the mountain bike hot spot of Bentonville lies the little-known gem of Jasper in the Ozark Mountains. Priced affordably, a new 1,100-square foot log cabin on 3 acres or a 3 bed/2 bath log home on over 6 acres can be yours for $350,000 or less. With the Buffalo National River as your playground, indulge in boating, climbing, and hiking, and explore the Pedestal Rock Scenic Area for unique formations.
2. Craig, Colorado, and the Elkhead Mountains:
It's hard to share this Colorado secret, but I must! Tucked away in the vast Yampa Valley, Craig is more than just a town; it's the gateway to the Elkhead Mountains. Known as the "elk-hunting capital of the world," Craig offers a serene and vast escape. Located within the Moffat County landscape, you'll find cabins like a 3-bed/1.5-bath farmhouse for $139,000 or a 2-bed/1-bath A-frame on a 5-acre lot- all within 45 minutes of the ski and summer town of Steamboat Springs. Enjoy skiing, hiking, and multi-day whitewater-rafting adventures with the Routt National Forest as your backyard.
3. Upper Peninsula, Michigan:
Michigan's Upper Peninsula offers a tapestry of adventure with its proximity to the Great Lakes, Huron, and Porcupine Mountains. Depending on your style, you can own an 80-acre hand-built log cabin for $249,000 or a cozy 20x20 log cabin on 40 acres for $129,000. The UP boasts winter delights like fat biking (worth trying out) and cross-country skiing and transforms into a summer haven with mountain biking, fishing, and occasional fresh-water surfing.
4. Robbinsville, North Carolina, and the Southern Appalachians:
Nestled near Lake Santeetlah, Robbinsville presents a haven for outdoor enthusiasts! Enjoy trout fishing in the south's finest waters, surrounded by Nantahala National Forest. A 2-bed/2-bath cabin on 2.5 acres for $250,000 or an A-frame cabin on an acre within walking distance of Lake Santeetlah for $330,000 is not bad. The Nantahala River beckons with Class III whitewater, and the Appalachian Trail is within a 30-minute drive.
5. Sandpoint, Idaho, and the Selkirk and Cabinet Mountains:
Explore the diverse and affordable inventory around Sandpoint, Idaho, where an A-frame cabin on 5 acres or a 2-bed/1-bath on an 8-acre inholding can be yours for under $240,000. Lake Pend Oreille, surrounded by three mountain ranges, offers a haven for fishing and drifting. Revel in Schweitzer Mountain Resort's 20 miles of summer bike trails with the lake as a backdrop.
As the real estate market presents new opportunities, these five destinations stand out as havens for affordable mountain living. Whether you're drawn to the elk-filled landscapes of Colorado or the serene waters of Lake Pend Oreille, your dream cabin awaits amidst the beauty of the American mountains.
Source: (https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/affordable-cabins-mountain-towns/)). December 2023.
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