7 Secluded Towns In The Northern United States
When planning weekend getaways, vacations, or day trips, we often find ourselves drawn to a country’s most-visited attractions. From Atlantic City to Epcot, these United States attractions are generally busy for good reason. And while there is definitely a time and place for bustling boardwalks and crowded amusement parks, sometimes, the most rewarding escape is one that allows you to unwind in solitude.
Whether you are an introverted beach lover seeking a quiet shore or a nature enthusiast looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle, these 7 secluded Northern US towns provide a serene refuge from everyday stress. Though you might encounter an occasional hiker, these fleeting interactions are a refreshing contrast to the chaos of larger tourist destinations. Tucked away from crowds, these out-of-the-way Northern US towns boast an eclectic range of breathtaking landscapes, peaceful lakeshores, and stunning hiking trails. But like all good things, they may not stay underrated and secluded for long—so you may just want to seize the bliss while you still can.
Monson, Maine
For wanderers seeking solitude amongst the trees, the Appalachian town of Monson is the perfect escape. With fewer than 700 residents spread across 47 square miles of wooded hills, this secluded Maine community offers a peaceful slice of nature. However, the town’s gateway to Maine’s famous 100 Mile Wilderness is what truly takes the cake. Hikers and nature lovers travel from near and far to explore this iconic path, which many dub “the wildest section of the Appalachian Trail.”
Considered “wild” for its sweeping pine forests and rugged mountains, the path is also known for being the longest and most remote fragment of the Appalachian Trail. Generally, it is an 8-day hike when traveled in its entirety. But if this sounds a bit too intimidating, the trail can also be hiked in sections thanks to the various lumber roads along the route.
Either way, the 100 Mile Wilderness is challenging but rewarding—especially for those looking to reconnect with nature's beauty. While the views are gorgeous every step of the way, spotlight features include cascades like the 60-foot Little Wilson Falls and shimmering alpine waters like Lake Nahmakanta. As for mountain vistas, Whitecap Mountain is the standout view, its peak towering 3,654 feet high.
Ely, Minnesota
Over in Minnesota, Ely is the main western entry point to another breathtaking stretch of nature: the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. With over 3,000 locals, this laid-back Minnesota town is a bit larger than Monson, but still retains a cozy small town feel. By contrast, its wilderness area covers over 1 million acres of land, so visitors are also guaranteed a secluded nature retreat.
With an area this vast, you are probably more likely to run into wildlife than your fellow hikers and canoers. The area’s 12 scenic hiking trails and 1,200 miles of water routes carry you past canyons and crags carved by glaciers, along with beaches, glacial lakes, and streams by the thousands. All of this is surrounded by the northern third of Minnesota’s Superior National Forest, which is home to a trove of habitats and wildlife, like bears, foxes, moose, and deer.
For those looking to explore the area on its waters, make sure to hit up any of Ely’s canoe & kayak rental services, like the Ely Outfitting Company. As for those looking to hike the area by foot, you may want to set up for a few nights under the stars. With over 2,000 designated campsites to choose from, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is an oasis for those looking to get "lost" out in nature.
Bayfield, Wisconsin
For the ultimate secluded nature retreat, Bayfield is a gateway to Wisconsin’s Apostle Islands. Also known as the “Jewels of Lake Superior,” many of these 21 breathtaking isles can be reached by kayak or boat right from the shores of this beautiful lake town. Other travelers may prefer to book water taxis with local companies like Adventure Vacations, transporting you to your island of choice.
When it comes to deciding between islands, there are countless factors to consider. Stockton Island, for example, is one of the most popular for an overnight stay. Offering 21 campsites, Stockton also features a beautiful range of natural features to explore during the day. Along with beaches and sea caves, hiking paths like the Anderson Point Trail offer beautiful views of the island’s rocky shore.
Oak Island, on the other hand, is even more popular with hikers. As the tallest of the Apostles, jaw-dropping vistas can be appreciated from the island’s highest point. The overlook, around 200 feet high, also grants views of 10 other Apostles. As for those who prefer to stay at sea level, Sand Island is another favorite among campers. Like Stockton, it boasts beautiful beaches and sea caves to explore. But what sets it apart is its historical lighthouse, “considered by many to be one of the most beautiful lighthouses on Lake Superior.”
Fish Creek, Wisconsin
Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, Fish Creek is another charming Wisconsin town promising a serene outdoor retreat. With Peninsula State Park as its neighbor, locals and visitors alike can explore 3,700 acres of lush parkland. This Wisconsin attraction is also known for its 8 miles of breathtaking blufftop views overlooking Green Bay (an arm of Lake Michigan). Whether stopping in for the day or booking an overnight stay at 1 of the 460 campsites, Fish Creek promises a laid-back escape.
Similar to the Apostle Islands, this lakeside park is centered around its waterfront. The sandy shores of Nicolet Bay Beach are a delight in the summertime, while postcard paths like the Sunset Trail welcome bikers and hikers from spring through fall. The Eagle Bluff Lighthouse is another photo-perfect spot along the way. Perched 76 feet above Green Bay, this blufftop lighthouse was originally built in 1868 and can be toured from mid-May through mid-October.
Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin
For our final idyllic town in Wisconsin, Elkhart Lake’s namesake body of water is one of the deepest and cleanest in the state. Spanning 292 acres and reaching depths of 119 feet, this spring-fed beauty is the fourth deepest lake in Wisconsin. On sunny days, its natural springs and soft sandy bottom allow Elkhart Lake to shimmer, revealing a beautiful shade of blue.
The lake is encircled by Wisconsin’s Kettle Moraine State Forest, creating a sheltered setting for the perfect day on the water. Fireman’s Park and Beach is one of the best spots in town to enjoy lake views, whether picnicking or strolling its sandy shore.
For even more seclusion, a 4-minute drive from the lake will bring you to an underrated hiking area. The Ice Age Trail LaBudde Segment (a section of the Ice Age National Trail) is an introverted hiker's dream. While scenic and beloved by birders and nature lovers who know about it, this 3.35-mile forested trail is still largely unknown, making it the ultimate off-the-beaten-path attraction.
Wellsboro, Pennsylvania
When it comes to “lesser-known jewels,” Wellsboro is one of Pennsylvania’s best-kept secrets. Upon first look, this slow-paced small town seems to present its best attractions right downtown, with Main Street landmarks like the historic Arcadia Theatre. But like the other towns on this list, there is more than meets the eye in this Pennsylvania town’s backyard.
Wellsboro is a gateway to Leonard Harrison State Park and Colton Point State Park, each located on either side of the Pine Creek Gorge. Known by many as the “Pennsylvania Grand Canyon,” this jaw-dropping valley stretches 50 miles long to depths of 1,000 feet. Below the canyon, kayaking the mighty Susquehanna River is an immersive way to take in views of the landscape.
Alternatively, Leonard Harrison State Park boasts 4.6 miles of trails to take in the scenes from land. Whether hiking the Overlook Trail for a bird’s-eye view or the Turkey Path Trail for views of the gorge and its waterfalls, this Wellsboro attraction will take your breath away more than once. On the western rim, Colton Point State Park boasts 4 miles of trails with a different perspective of the Turkey Path’s waterfalls along with its gorgeous Rim Trail.
Renovo, Pennsylvania
About 1.5 hours southwest of Wellsboro, Renovo is another beautiful secluded town for those looking to experience the Susquehanna River. Along with the towns of South Renovo and Noyes Township, Renovo was designated a “Susquehanna Greenway River Town” in 2016. Since then, this Pennsylvania community has hosted its annual Flaming Foliage Festival to celebrate the season’s colors reflecting into the river each fall.
During the remainder of the year, Renovo locals and visitors have access to countless scenic parks and forests. While small, Hyner View State Park features one of the prettiest lookouts in the country, making it popular with hang gliding enthusiasts and photographers. The park includes views of Sproul State Forest, Pennsylvania’s largest state forest at 305,450 acres.
To see and experience the forest up close in all its glory, Kettle Creek State Park has countless trails to do just that. Whether hiking the 1.3-mile Butler Trail to the Kettle Creek Vista or riding the 2-mile Kettle Creek State Park Snowmobile Trail in the winter, the Sproul State Forest is a sight to behold year-round.
Final Thoughts
While we often feel drawn to busy city attractions, there are times when even the most extroverted traveler needs a break from the crowds. If this sounds familiar, and you are looking to escape the fast pace of your busy life, consider giving these underrated towns a chance. Whether hiking sections of the 100 Mile Wilderness, kayaking below the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon or enjoying a tranquil day on the water at Elkhart Lake, these secluded Northern US towns and their attractions guarantee tranquility.
