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Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life? The towns near the Canadian border offer serene landscapes, rich histories, and a touch of tranquility that’s hard to find elsewhere.
From coastal gems to mountain retreats, these ten secluded towns provide the perfect backdrop for a peaceful getaway or a new place to call home. Let’s countdown the hidden treasures waiting to be explored.
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10. Calais, Maine: Riverside Quietude on the Border
Calais, Maine, a peaceful town of around 3,000 residents, offers a tranquil riverside setting along the banks of the St. Croix River. Known for its historic charm, Calais features landmarks like the Calais Observatory and the St. Croix Island International Historic Site. The town’s economy thrives on small businesses, tourism, and cross-border trade with Canada.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as fishing, kayaking, and exploring the nearby Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge. Calais’s seclusion stems from its remote location at the eastern edge of Maine, far from the hustle of urban centers. This quiet gateway to Canada provides a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Where is Calais, Maine?
Calais is nestled in Washington County, right on the border with New Brunswick, Canada. Its remote position in northeastern Maine contributes to its secluded feel, surrounded by vast stretches of forests and coastline.
The town is accessible via U.S. Route 1, but it’s a considerable distance from major highways and cities, adding to its peaceful isolation. Visitors can reach Calais by car, enjoying scenic drives through Maine’s picturesque landscapes, or by crossing over from Canada through the international border crossing.
9. Lake Metigoshe, North Dakota: A Secluded Lakeside Escape
Lake Metigoshe, nestled in the Turtle Mountains of North Dakota, offers a serene lakeside getaway unlike any other. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters, it’s a haven for boating, fishing, and hiking amidst lush forests.
The area thrives on tourism, with visitors drawn to Lake Metigoshe State Park and its natural beauty. Its seclusion is accentuated by the untouched wilderness and the peaceful ambiance that envelops the lake. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, Lake Metigoshe provides a refreshing retreat away from the crowds.
Where is Lake Metigoshe, North Dakota?
Located in the northern part of North Dakota, right along the Canadian border, Lake Metigoshe is set amid the rolling hills of the Turtle Mountains. Its remote setting contributes to its secluded nature, with dense woodlands providing a sense of isolation.
The area is accessible via North Dakota Highway 43 but remains off the beaten path for most travelers. Getting there involves a scenic drive through rural landscapes, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination itself.
8. Sumas, Washington: Peaceful Farmlands and Mountain Views
Sumas, Washington, is a small town with a population of approximately 1,500, offering tranquility amidst picturesque farmlands and stunning mountain vistas. Nestled at the foot of the Cascade Mountains, Sumas is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and exploring the nearby Nooksack River.
Agriculture plays a significant role in the local economy, with lush fields contributing to the town’s serene agricultural landscape. The town’s seclusion comes from its quiet rural setting and close-knit community, providing a peaceful atmosphere away from urban bustle. Sumas’s charm lies in its simplicity and the natural beauty that surrounds it.
Where is Sumas, Washington?
Situated in Whatcom County, Sumas sits right on the Canadian border, adjacent to Abbotsford, British Columbia. Its border location adds to its uniqueness, yet the town remains secluded due to its modest size and rural surroundings.
Accessible via State Route 9, Sumas is about two hours north of Seattle, making it a quiet retreat still within reach of city amenities. The journey to Sumas offers scenic drives through verdant landscapes and glimpses of the majestic Mount Baker, enhancing the sense of entering a tranquil enclave.
7. Derby Line, Vermont: A Town Where Borders Blur
Derby Line, Vermont, is a quaint village of around 600 residents, known for its unique position straddling the U.S.-Canada border. The town is famous for the Haskell Free Library and Opera House, a building that sits directly on the border, with the stage in Canada and the audience in the United States.
Small businesses and tourism fuel the local economy, with visitors intrigued by its cross-border charm. Derby Line’s seclusion is reflected in its serene streets, historic homes, and the peaceful atmosphere that permeates the village. It’s a place where international lines blur, fostering a sense of unity and tranquility.
Where is Derby Line, Vermont?
Derby Line is situated in Orleans County at the northernmost point of Vermont. Its remote location contributes to its seclusion, nestled amidst rolling hills and forested landscapes. The town is accessible via Interstate 91 but remains relatively isolated due to its distance from major urban centers.
Visitors can reach Derby Line by car, enjoying the scenic beauty of Vermont’s countryside along the way. The town’s position on the border adds to its distinctiveness, offering a quiet retreat with an international twist.
6. Grand Portage, Minnesota: Historic Seclusion
Grand Portage, Minnesota, is a small community with a population of around 600, rich in history and natural beauty. Home to the Grand Portage National Monument, it preserves a vital center of fur trade activity and Ojibwe heritage.
Visitors can explore the historic site, engage with cultural exhibits, and enjoy stunning views of Lake Superior. Tourism and operations by the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa anchor the local economy. Grand Portage’s remote lakeside location and proximity to the Canadian border enhance its secluded feel. Surrounded by wilderness and the vast expanse of the lake, it offers a tranquil escape steeped in history.
Where is Grand Portage, Minnesota?
Located in Cook County, Grand Portage sits on the northeastern tip of Minnesota, adjacent to the Canadian border. Its seclusion is amplified by the surrounding Superior National Forest and the nearby Pigeon River.
Accessible via Minnesota Highway 61, the town is about 36 miles northeast of Grand Marais, making it one of the most remote communities in the state. Getting there involves a breathtaking drive along the North Shore Scenic Drive, offering panoramic views of Lake Superior and dense forests, leading to this historic and secluded destination.
5. Eureka, Montana: Mountain Serenity Near the Border
Eureka, Montana, with a population of approximately 1,500, is nestled in the Tobacco Valley, offering breathtaking mountain scenery and a tranquil environment. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in hiking, fishing, and skiing in the nearby Kootenai National Forest and the Ten Lakes Scenic Area.
The local economy is supported by timber, agriculture, and tourism, reflecting the town’s connection to the natural landscape. Eureka’s secluded nature is due to its remote location amidst mountains and forests, providing a serene retreat for those seeking solace in nature. The town’s picturesque setting and friendly community make it a hidden gem near the Canadian border.
Where is Eureka, Montana?
Located in Lincoln County in northwestern Montana, Eureka lies close to the Canadian border. Its proximity to Canada and the surrounding mountainous terrain accentuate its seclusion. Accessible via U.S. Route 93, Eureka is about 65 miles north of Kalispell, requiring a drive through scenic valleys and mountain passes. The journey to Eureka is part of its charm, with stunning landscapes guiding visitors to this peaceful mountain haven.
4. Houlton, Maine: Tranquility in Aroostook County
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Houlton, Maine, is a quiet town of about 6,000 residents, offering a peaceful rural setting in Aroostook County. Known as the “Shire Town,” it boasts a historic downtown with Victorian architecture and charming local shops. Agriculture, forestry, and cross-border trade are the main industries, reflecting its role as a commercial hub in the region.
Recreational activities abound, from exploring the Meduxnekeag River to enjoying the local golf course and hiking trails. Houlton’s seclusion arises from its location in northern Maine, surrounded by vast forests and farmland. Its tranquil atmosphere provides a respite from the noise and pace of larger cities.
Where is Houlton, Maine?
Situated at the intersection of Interstate 95 and U.S. Route 1, Houlton sits right on the Canadian border adjacent to New Brunswick. Despite highway access, its remote northern location contributes to its sense of seclusion.
The town is approximately 120 miles north of Bangor, requiring a drive through scenic rural areas. Visitors can reach Houlton by car, enjoying the expansive landscapes of Maine’s interior. Its border location and distance from urban centers make Houlton a peaceful gateway between the U.S. and Canada.
3. International Falls, Minnesota: Wilderness and Waterways
International Falls, Minnesota, with a population of around 6,000, is known as the “Icebox of the Nation” due to its chilly winters. Positioned along the Rainy River, it offers access to unspoiled wilderness and waterways. Serving as the gateway to Voyageurs National Park, visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and exploring interconnected lakes and forests.
The local economy includes tourism, paper manufacturing, and cross-border trade. International Falls’s secluded charm stems from its remote northern location and the vast natural landscapes that envelop it. It’s a haven for those seeking adventure and a close connection with nature.
Where is International Falls, Minnesota?
Located in Koochiching County, International Falls sits on the U.S.-Canada border opposite Fort Frances, Ontario. Its seclusion is enhanced by the surrounding wilderness of northern Minnesota and the absence of major urban centers nearby.
Accessible via U.S. Route 53 and State Highway 11, the town is several hours’ drive north of Duluth. Travelers can reach International Falls by car or through regional flights to Falls International Airport, immersing themselves in the serenity of Minnesota’s rugged north.
2. Neah Bay, Washington: Seclusion at the Pacific Edge
Neah Bay, Washington, is a small community of about 800 residents located on the Makah Indian Reservation. It offers a unique blend of stunning coastal landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the Makah Cultural and Research Center, hike the Cape Flattery Trail to the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States, and enjoy whale watching along the rugged coastline.
Fishing, tourism, and tribal enterprises anchor the local economy. Neah Bay’s seclusion comes from its remote location at the edge of the Olympic Peninsula, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The area’s natural beauty and cultural depth make it a secluded gem on the Pacific edge.
Where is Neah Bay, Washington?
Situated in Clallam County at the tip of the Olympic Peninsula, Neah Bay borders the Pacific Ocean. Its remote position contributes to its secluded feel, surrounded by ocean waters and dense rainforests.
Accessible via State Route 112, reaching Neah Bay involves a scenic drive through the Olympic National Park and along winding coastal roads. The journey underscores the town’s isolation and the breathtaking natural landscapes that make it a special destination for those willing to venture off the beaten path.
1. Eastport, Maine: America’s Easternmost Hidden Gem
Eastport, Maine, with a population of around 1,300, holds the distinction of being the easternmost city in the United States. This coastal town is known for its rich maritime history, charming downtown, and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can enjoy whale watching, explore historic sardine factories, and participate in the annual Eastport Pirate Festival.
Fishing, aquaculture, and tourism drive the economy, reflecting its deep connection to the sea. Eastport’s secluded beauty comes from its island location and rugged coastline. The town offers a peaceful retreat where the first rays of sunrise touch American soil.
Where is Eastport, Maine?
Located on Moose Island in Washington County, Eastport is connected to the mainland by a causeway. Its remote coastal position at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean enhances its seclusion, with Canada’s Campobello Island visible across the bay. Accessible via State Route 190, Eastport is about 125 miles east of Bangor.
Getting there involves a scenic drive through Down East Maine, with coastal vistas and quaint villages along the way. Eastport’s isolation and unique geographical position make it a hidden gem for those seeking the charm of a small seaside community.
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