Best States for Trail-Lovers to Buy Property
Trails Meet Property Ownership
For many outdoor enthusiasts, the dream isn’t just visiting a national park or forest. It’s owning property close to the trails they love most. Whether you hike for peace, bike for adventure, or simply want nature right outside your door, choosing the right state is key.
Here are the best states for trail-lovers to buy property, and why Utah stands out as one of the top choices for land ownership.
1. Utah: Endless Trails and Affordable Land
Utah is one of the best states in the nation for outdoor recreation, and its trail systems are world-class. From the alpine hikes of the Uinta Mountains to the desert trails in Moab and Zion, Utah offers unmatched variety.
For trail-lovers who want to live near their next adventure, Duchesne County provides affordable land with quick access to:
Starvation Reservoir shoreline trails
Uintah and Ashley National Forest hiking routes
Mountain biking roads and singletrack in the Uintas
Unlike expensive resort towns, Duchesne County land remains affordable while still offering a direct connection to some of Utah’s best trail systems.
2. Colorado: High Peaks and Popular Trails
Colorado is a favorite for hikers and bikers alike, with destinations such as the Rocky Mountains, Boulder foothills, and the San Juan range. While land prices are higher than Utah, the access to fourteener hikes and technical mountain bike trails draws in outdoor enthusiasts from around the world.
3. Montana: Wide Open Spaces for Trail-Lovers
Montana combines small-town charm with endless wilderness. From Glacier National Park to the Bob Marshall Wilderness, trail-lovers have no shortage of options. Land parcels here can be larger and more remote, which is perfect for those who want solitude along with recreation.
4. Oregon: Green Forests and Mountain Biking Meccas
Oregon offers lush forests, rugged coastlines, and one of the strongest mountain biking cultures in the U.S. Towns like Bend have become hubs for outdoor enthusiasts, although rising property costs have made it harder to find affordable land compared to Utah or Montana.
5. Arizona: Desert Trails and Year-Round Adventure
With sunny weather and trails through canyons, mesas, and desert landscapes, Arizona is a strong option for those who want outdoor access all year long. Mountain bikers love Sedona’s red rock routes, while hikers enjoy areas near Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon.
6. Idaho: Underrated and Full of Trails
Often overlooked, Idaho offers scenic trails without the crowds of more popular states. The Sawtooth Mountains provide both hiking and biking opportunities, and land prices are still relatively affordable. Trail-lovers seeking balance between recreation and cost will find Idaho appealing.
Why Utah Tops the List for Trail-Lovers
While all of these states are excellent for outdoor enthusiasts, Utah stands out because of its:
Diverse trail systems: Alpine hikes, desert trails, and lakefront paths.
Affordability: Especially in Duchesne County, where land near trails is still accessible.
Lifestyle freedom: Perfect for those seeking off-grid living, recreational cabins, or investment property.
Year-round recreation: Summer boating, fall hunting, winter snowmobiling, spring hiking.
For anyone searching for the best properties near hiking and biking trails, Utah delivers variety, value, and adventure.
Conclusion: Find Your Property Near the Trails
Trail-lovers know that the right property can transform how they experience the outdoors. Whether it’s weekend hikes, biking adventures, or building a permanent retreat, owning land near trails is the best way to keep adventure close.
Ready to explore land in one of the best states for trail-lovers? Mountains West Ranches makes it simple to own affordable land in Duchesne County, Utah, where trails, lakes, and mountains are right outside your front door.