If we do say so ourselves, Massachusetts is one of the best states to live in in the country. From our educational institutions and hospitals to our rich history and beautiful parks, there’s something for everybody. If you consider yourself more of an outdoorsy type, here are 5 cities you should consider living in. With oceanside dining and some of the state’s best hiking, you’ll find yourself at one with nature in no time.

Carlisle

Located to the northwest of Boston, Carlisle is a quiet city that’s surrounded by nature. It offers lots of rolling hillsides that have over 20 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing.

Carlisle is also home to the Great Brook Farm State Park and the Acorn Trail, which is a great trail for serious hikers. The Acorn Trail is built in a loop that takes you up to a forest through woodlands and fields.

Carlisle is simply designed, with many single-family and small cul-de-sac homes.

Lexington

If you like to bike or run, there’s no better place to live than Lexington. It is home to conservation land comprised of 183 bike trails, pathways, and bikeways that take you by rivers and wooded parks. The historic Minuteman Bikeway winds through the town and is one of the most popular rail-trails in the United States. It runs right through Lexington and continues on to Bedford, Arlington, and Cambridge. Residents and visitors alike can ride their bicycles, walk, or skate on the trail.

There are 28 miles of bike lanes through the city streets in Lexington, and six miles were added for the more narrow lanes.

Lexington homes are modest, with modern mid-century houses that were designed to encourage a sense of openness. These attributes and more contribute to a strong sense of community.

Gloucester

Gloucester is surrounded by water, and the beaches go on for miles. The boating is simply spectacular. You can kayak, take a cruise on a yacht, go diving or fishing—the fishing industry continues to thrive in Gloucester. There is an aquatic activity for everyone. For the water enthusiast, there is no better place than Gloucester.

Gloucester is a quaint little town. You’ll find beachfront properties with some Victorian-influenced homes sprinkled throughout the neighborhood.

Topsfield

Known as a very friendly community, Topsfield is perfect for residents who want to be just a quick distance away from a lot of great outdoor spots with horse properties. The northeastern border has the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, Mile Brook Reservoir, Bradley State Park and Willowdale State Forest.

Residents can canoe, kayak, fish, and hike, all the while enjoying the natural beauty the neighborhood has to offer.

It’s comprised of ranches, cape homes and antique homes are also available.

Burlington

If you have active kids, Burlington has enough outdoor activities to keep them busy and residents say it’s a great place to raise a family. At first glance it may seem like typical suburban living—malls and fast-food chains notwithstanding—but that’s not what this city is all about.

The city is one big playground that has 11 parks that include recreation such as fitness, dancing, summer outdoor events, and a variety of sports activities. Simonds Park is made up of sections of play areas that include lighted tennis courts, outdoor swimming, and a baseball field.

Burlington is composed of tidy ranches that are nicely landscaped and is an affordable area for couples with children.