A cabin as a primary residence or a vacation home can be incredibly rewarding. Many homeowners invest in the cabin life with hobbies in mind, but some only embrace the outdoors once they purchase a cabin. Here are four hobbies that are tailor made for the cabin life, and for various budgets.

Fly Fishing
Fly fishing is an incredibly relaxing hobby and a wonderful way to get outdoors and enjoy everything nature has to offer. There are many classes available to help fledgling fly fishers obtain the right equipment and fish their local stream or lake.

Your local big box retailer or your local mom-and-pop fly fishing shop can help get you started. There are many all-in-one kits or beginner kits that can help you be fly fishing that very afternoon.

There’s almost a Zen-like quality to perfecting the cast. The sound of the line arcing back and forth over your head is a soothing zing! Even if you do have a bad cast, there’s a good one just around the corner. Some people have even compared it to the calm that comes over them from practicing yoga. Not a fan of eating fish? No problem! Nobody would complain if you did a simple catch and release. As a matter of fact, in some jurisdictions it’s the law.

Hiking
The nice thing about hiking is that it’s pretty much accessible for anyone who has a sturdy pair of shoes and a backpack. Pack some snacks and a first aid kit and you can get started on some local walks around your area.

If you find yourself getting interested in more difficult hikes, there are many groups you can find on social media or through your local outdoor outfitter. They can point you to resources and perhaps a friend or two to hike with you along those trails. As with any outdoor pursuit, ensure you are well equipped with safety gear, a GPS tracker, and select trails for your ability level.

Paddleboarding, Canoeing or Kayaking
Some smaller lakes don’t allow motorized vessels, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get out on the water. Paddleboarding, canoeing or kayaking gives a great opportunity to not only get some exercise but get up close and personal with the water. The quietness of these activities also offers a wonderful opportunity to observe nature. A canoe or kayak offers an additional way to practice your fishing skills. As always when undertaking any activity on the water, safety gear is a must. Just don’t forget your waterproof camera!

Snowshoeing or Cross-Country Skiing
Outdoor activities don’t have to be limited to just the spring and summer months. Winters can be long in some parts of the country, and it makes sense to develop some hobbies that will allow you to take advantage of that. Again, social media is a great place to look for information or get pointed in the right direction for equipment for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Ski resorts near you may give courses on snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Rental equipment is easy to come by through local university outdoor programs or your local outdoor outfitter. 

The only limit to enjoying your cabin lifestyle is your imagination!