Real Estate

3 PA Spots Among America’s Most Coveted Fall Cabin Retreats

A recent survey asked 3,000 people where they would most like to own or rent a cabin to experience the fall colors this season.

Three Pennsylvania destinations have been named among America's most coveted fall cabin retreats, according to a new survey.

Real estate website Texas Real Estate Source surveyed just over 3,000 respondents and asked them which part of the country they would most like to own or rent a cabin to experience the fall colors this season.

In all, 135 places made the final ranking. The answers ranged from dreamy getaways to practical choices and revealed what people value when they picture a rustic escape.

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"Owning a log cabin has year-round appeal. In summer, they’re a base for fishing, hunting, or swimming in nearby lakes. In winter, they turn into cozy hideaways, perfect for fireside evenings. In spring, the surrounding landscape bursts into bloom," Texas Real Estate Source wrote. "But it’s fall when cabins truly shine, with vivid reds, oranges and golds creating picture-postcard views right outside the window."

In Pennsylvania, the Pocono Mountains in the northeastern part of the state came in at No. 32 on the list. With Monroe County median home prices in the low to mid-$300,000 range, the region remains relatively affordable compared to nearby metro markets.

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"The Poconos are one of the state’s most famous fall getaways, where maples and birches light up the ridges through October," the survey authors wrote. "Cabins are everywhere here, from rustic lakeside retreats to modern log homes marketed for short-term rentals."

Also included in the ranking was the Laurel Highlands in southwestern Pennsylvania, which came in at No. 33. With median values in these counties sitting in the low-$200,000 range, the Highlands are among the more budget-friendly mountain options in the state.

"Rolling hills and forested valleys make the Laurel Highlands a standout foliage region, especially around Ohiopyle State Park," the survey authors wrote. "Cabins are scattered through Fayette and Somerset counties, many doubling as hunting retreats or family getaways."

Finally, Pine Creek Gorge in Tioga County was ranked 84th. With Tioga County median home values averaging around the low-$200,000s, it’s a realistic choice for buyers seeking both affordability and spectacle.

"Dubbed the 'Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania,' Pine Creek Gorge delivers some of the most dramatic fall scenery in the Northeast," the survey authors wrote. "Rustic cabins line the surrounding forests and river valleys, often marketed to hikers and leaf-peepers."

These are the top 10 most coveted fall cabin retreat destinations, according to the survey:

  1. Estes Park, Rocky Mountain Gateway, Colorado
  2. Pagosa Springs, San Juan Mountains, Colorado
  3. Lake Arrowhead, San Bernardino Mountains, California
  4. Chattanooga & Lookout Mountain, Tennessee
  5. Tupper Lake, Adirondacks, New York
  6. Mariposa County (Yosemite Gateway), California
  7. Great Smoky Mountains, Sevier County, Tennessee
  8. Shasta County (Mount Shasta and Shingletown), California
  9. Ozark National Forest, Newton and Johnson counties, Arkansas
  10. Fairbanks and Chena River Valley, Alaska

Check out the full ranking online.

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