eNZees Blog

Best Cities for Nature Lovers

by Jill Schuman | February 22, 2017 | 0 Comments

We understand, city life isn’t for everyone, but these five cities offer ample green space and outdoor opportunities for those who aren’t ready to move out to the sticks just yet!

Portland, Maine

Best towns for nature lovers, portland maine

Portland Head Lighthouse courtesy of Jeff Gunn
While the other Portland (you know the one) grabs all the attention and churns out hipsters by the truckload, Portland, Maine as got its own thing going. And it’s pretty cool. With a population of just 66,318, Maine’s largest city offers a small-town vibe with big city opportunities. Whether you’re an ocean of white water kayaker, surfer, sailor, or hiker, there are numerous opportunities to enjoy it all – even in one day!

Albuquerque, NM

Best towns for nature lovers Albuquerque New Mexico

Albuquerque at Sunset courtesy of Rex Brown

Breaking Bad gave Albuquerque a pretty bad rap, but this city of half-a-million people in the arid New Mexico desert has its charms. It’s also one of the oldest cities in the United States, founded in 1706, and contains some incredible historic adobe buildings constructed by the Spaniards. With miles of views across the Sandia Mountains and the desert to the west, crisp, clean air, and plenty of that New Mexico golden light, you’ll be grabbing your hiking shoes and heading to one of the numerous trailheads just outside of town. Don’t forget your eNZees!

San Francisco, CA

Best towns for nature lovers San Francisco

San Francisco Bay, Golden Gate Bridge courtesy of Jeff Gunn

San Francisco has got a lot of great things going for it, but we love the city’s numerous parks and open spaces. There are nearly 30 miles of trails in the city and the Recreation & Parks department is active in developing and restoring natural areas. Sure, it might be a crowded, busy, (and expensive city), but it’s surrounded by water and sits on California’s beautiful coastline. You’re sure to find a nice beach and maybe catch a wave!

Honolulu, HI

Best towns for nature lovers Honolulu

Honolulu as seen from Diamond Head courtesy of John Fowler

This feels a little bit like stating the obvious. It’s Hawaii, after all. But this town in the center of paradise has a lot more going for it than its beaches and surf. Warm up on the Manoa Falls Trail, an easy 1.6 mile round trip to a lovely waterfall, before tackling the Koko Crater Trail – 1,000 steps to the top of Koko Head! But the views of Hanauma Bay and Port Lock Peninsula are well worth the stairmaster!  

Seattle, WA

Best towns for nature lovers Seattle Washington

Simply Seattle by Andrew E. Larsen

Seattle’s made numerous Top Green Cities lists over the last few years, and for good reason! The city is one of the most walkable in the United States, offers plenty of vegetarian and vegan restaurants, and numerous green spaces for ample walking opportunities. The city itself is just downright gorgeous with views of Elliott Bay and snowcapped Rainier in the distance.

Don't forget, you can get blisters even when walking through a city park! Take an eNZees Mini with you on an urban adventure to prevent blisters and hot-spots! 

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