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The best tree-house rentals in the US

The best tree-house rentals in the US

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  • As the novel coronavirus continues to upend travel plans, new trends are emerging that prioritize safety and vacation rentals in remote, outdoor areas.
  • According to Airbnb's CEO, unique stays like tree houses have become especially popular.
  • We rounded up some of the best tree-house rentals across the US with fall availability so you can experience prime leaf-peeping season while perched high among the branches.

The novel coronavirus has interrupted travel plans across the US for half a year now, and as travelers adapt to the ever-evolving circumstances, new trends continue to emerge.

Vacation home rentals are more popular than ever, in large part because experts have said booking entire homes are likely safer alternatives than staying in hotels because you won't encounter other guests like you would in crowded hotel areas such as communal pools and lobbies.

Similarly, road trips, national park vacations, and getaways to more remote areas have all become increasingly attractive.

So, it's not totally surprising to learn from the CEO of Airbnb that bookings for unique stays like Airstreams and tree houses are "booming."

Not only are tree-house rentals generally more secluded (a key advantage in the age of social distancing), but they firmly ensconce you within nature by placing your bed amid treetop canopies. Plus, many tree houses listed on vacation rental sites come with enchanting and Instagram-worthy interiors that include wooden spiral staircases and twinkling lights lining A-frame roofs.

Fall is an especially great time to stay in a tree house since you'll enjoy an up-close view of the changing foliage. Many tree-house rentals are also located near hiking paths, and autumn often features optimal weather for hitting the trails.

Airbnb has also added new Enhanced Clean protocols, but keep in mind that not all hosts are required to follow the new procedures. Cleaning and service fees vary from one vacation rental to another, along with cancellation policies, so it's worth reading the fine print on any listings you're considering. We've noted new cleaning policies for listings below where applicable.

Also, keep in mind that without a vaccine there is no guarantee of safety right now. We always recommend following guidelines from trusted organizations like the CDC and WHO, and taking precautions like wearings a mask, social distancing, and washing hands frequently. Additionally, you should always check state and local guidelines before traveling, especially if you are going out of state or traveling to or from a hotspot area.

That said, we've scoured vacation rental sites like Airbnb and Vrbo for the best tree-house rentals.

We based our selections on the following criteria:

  1. All listings are for entire homes, in line with current expert recommendations for safety.
  2. Listings are all highly reviewed with an average rating of 4.75 or higher.
  3. The properties are found in a range of destinations across the US and range in price from $130 for a compact cabin in Vermont to $549 for a spacious, cabin-style splurge near Lake Tahoe.
  4. All homes are high in the branches or, at the very least, at the top of a staircase and surrounded by forest for a true tree house experience.
Read on for the best tree-house rentals in the US, sorted by price from low to high.

Compact tree house by a stream in Hardwick, Vermont, $130

Compact tree house by a stream in Hardwick, Vermont, $130
AirBnb
Book this compact tree house starting at $130 per night on Airbnb

Those seeking a rustic escape will find plenty to delight in at this secluded tree house that's still near plenty of hiking trails, ski areas, distilleries, and breweries.

The home is small, at just 10 feet by 16 feet. But the unique decor includes recycled windows from an old schoolhouse, high slanted ceilings, a small kitchen with turquoise-tiled counters, and a loft area up a steep ladder with a double bed.

Appealing to the eco-conscious traveler, the home uses solar energy and environmentally-friendly cleaning products. There is a primitive composting toilet in the tree house, and a full bathroom in the main house on the same property nearby.

This home has a few scattered days left in September and more availability in November.

Rating: 4.98

Covid-19 policies: No specific guidelines are listed, but the Superhost has a perfect 5-star rating for cleanliness.

Luxury farm tree house in Concord, North Carolina, $153

Luxury farm tree house in Concord, North Carolina, $153
AirBnb
Book this farm tree house starting at $153 per night on Airbnb

Soothing white and olive interiors make for a relaxing forest stay at this home resting high among the pines. Set on a 20-acre farm estate, guests can enjoy a mix of outdoor and city fun since downtown Concord is just a short drive away.

The tree house itself is comprised of just one main room with a Queen-sized bed, handcrafted furnishings, a mini-fridge, and a coffee bar. A private deck looks over the trees and is a nice place to start or end your day.

Slightly more on the roughing it side than some other listings, the home features an eco-bathroom located close by that includes eco-toilets and a sink. Guests will surely enjoy the amazing outdoor rainforest shower, though.

This home has some availability at the end of September and October. It's available almost every day beginning in November.

Rating: 4.95

Covid-19 policies: No specific policies are outlined but the host has a perfect 5 rating for cleanliness.

Tree cabin in Easton, Kansas, $165

Tree cabin in Easton, Kansas, $165
AirBnb
Book this tree cabin starting at $165 per night on Airbnb

An adults-only listing found on 32 acres of wilderness, this sturdy wooden cabin sits on stilts at the top of a dramatic staircase.

The loft bedroom includes a Queen-sized bed and the screened-in deck overlooks a creek and includes an outdoor shower. There is also a small kitchen complete with countertops made from a large live edge cedar tree.

The real perk, however, is the hot tub. While there are other rentals scattered throughout the grounds that have access to it, guests must schedule a time to use it, so you'll never be surprised by others trying to take a dip at the same time.

This listing has scattered days available throughout the end of August, September, and October.

Rating: 4.98

Covid-19 policies: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.

Chic tree house chalet in Park City, Utah, $175

Chic tree house chalet in Park City, Utah, $175
AirBnb
Book this tree house chalet starting at $175 per night on Airbnb

Already situated high near the Park City ski resort at 8,000 feet, this tree house adds to the elevation by sitting at the top of a staircase surrounded by the branches of a 200-year-old fir.

Ideal for those in the mood for a rugged and remote vacation, the home is only accessible via all-wheel-drive vehicles since it's at the end of a 3-mile unpaved road that's dirt or snow-packed, depending on the season.

The decor is elegant but cozy, with big windows, a lofted bedroom under the pitched wooden roof, and a beautiful stone shower. A large deck with a picnic table is a scenic place to enjoy a meal or just relax and take in the views.

This listing still has a few days available in September and October, with wide-open availability beginning in November.

Rating: 4.75

Covid-19 policies: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.

Beachfront Puget Sound tree house in Vashon Island, Washington, $199

Beachfront Puget Sound tree house in Vashon Island, Washington, $199
Vrbo
Book this beachfront tree house starting at $199 per night on Vrbo

This cabin-style home is just up a short ramp, but is surrounded by thick, overgrown trees and is right on the beach, making it a rare find. The home sleeps six guests so it's suitable for bigger groups and families.

And while it feels exceedingly remote, it's actually just 10 minutes from downtown Vashon Island and less than three miles from the ferry terminal to Seattle and the Olympic Peninsula. For those looking to get back to nature, the property offers stunning views from all rooms with decks on two levels.

Two wineries are within walking distance and there are miles of shoreline to explore, along with hiking trails. Canoes and kayaks are available upon request.

There are still a couple of last-minute days available in October, but this popular property books fast. It may be worth booking for 2021 now.

Rating: 5

Covid-19 policies: No specific policies are listed, but the host has a perfect 5 rating.

Vineyard tree house in Los Gatos, California, $237

Vineyard tree house in Los Gatos, California, $237
AirBnb
Book this vineyard tree house starting at $237 per night on Airbnb

Wine country comes with incredible views at this intimate getaway for two in California. Located on Lago Lomita Vineyards overlooking Monterey Bay, this abode is perched high in Douglas Fir trees.

Accessible by a ladder/staircase, this option is really a 400-square-foot glamping canvas tent resting on a wooden platform. The tent is just big enough for a Queen-sized bed and a couple of nightstands, but the platform doubles as an epic porch with unparalleled scenery.

Do note that the bathroom is separate. A full bathroom is accessible to guests in the main house on the property, just a short walk from the tree house.

This listing has availability beginning from mid-October onward.

Rating: 4.98

Covid-19 policies: No new policies are outlined, but the host has a 4.9 out of 5 for cleanliness and several recent guests noted it was clean and tidy.

Three-story tree house in Blue Ridge, Georgia, $240

Three-story tree house in Blue Ridge, Georgia, $240
Vrbo
Book this three-story tree house starting at $240 per night on Vrbo

Ideal for outdoor lovers, this treehouse is set on four private acres of forest in the Aska Adventure Area. The house features direct hiking access to the Benton MacKaye Trail right outside the door. And while the inside is 750 square feet and big enough to sleep six guests, it's the 1,200 square feet of deck space that set this tree house apart.

Cabin-like interiors include comfy leather couches, a dining table made from a tree stump, and a wooden ladder that leads to a lofted sleeping space, as well as bunk beds that are built into the sitting room wall.

As one recent reviewer succinctly put it, "The property exceeded our expectations and was absolutely amazing."

This home still has a few scattered days available in October and November.

Rating: 4.9

Covid-19 policies: No specific new policies are listed, but the owner does state that a professional cleaning service is responsible for cleaning the home.

Little red tree house in Lyons, Colorado, $250

Little red tree house in Lyons, Colorado, $250
AirBnb
Book this tree house starting at $250 per night on Airbnb

Accommodating two guests, this little red and green tree house is found on the way to Rocky Mountain National Park.

The home includes a double bed, private shower, a powder room with a sink and toilet, and an efficiency kitchen, complete with a small sink and fridge. Guests can dine al fresco on the porch and enjoy the newly added porch swing.

Recent guests who used the home as a base for exploring the park raved, saying "Very unique place to stay! My wife and I had a lot of fun staying here over a weekend. Leam let us use some bikes to cycle into town, and it was very close! Also appreciated how easy of a drive it was to Rocky Mountain National Park. Would 10/10 recommend staying here and avoiding the craziness of Estes Park."

This home has a few scattered days left in October but is booked for most of the rest of the year, so snag the last available days fast.

Rating: 4.97

Covid-19 policies: No specific new guidelines are listed, but several recent guests have noted the home is clean and tidy.

Cozy tree house retreat in Middle Grove, NY, $260

Cozy tree house retreat in Middle Grove, NY, $260
AirBnb
Book this tree house starting at $260 per night on Airbnb

Found in the forests of the Adirondacks, this snug and inviting spot is a great option for a romantic retreat. While the bedroom can technically sleep up to three guests, this smaller home is best suited to couples and solo travelers.

Climb the winding staircase to access the entryway where you'll find rustic, all-wood interiors. A small balcony lets guests perch among the canopies, while an outdoor kitchen and larger patio below offer more space for enjoying meals.

A fire pit with wooden benches creates a cozy spot to end the day and a hammock by the nearby pond is a relaxing place to rest.

While there is a full bathroom complete with shower, it is not directly in the tree house, but rather in a separate area just a few steps away.

While currently booked for the next couple of months, this home is available beginning in early November.

Rating: 4.91

Covid-19 policies: No new policies are outlined but 17 recent guests said the Airbnb was clean and tidy and the Superhost has a perfect 5 rating for cleanliness.

Contemporary tree house near Dallas, Texas, $283

Contemporary tree house near Dallas, Texas, $283
AirBnb
Book this contemporary treehouse starting at $283 per night on Airbnb

Tucked away in a grove of Japanese Maples in Little Forest Hills, this contemporary and chic home awaits. Handcrafted interiors include soaring ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, a stone fireplace, and a spiral wooden staircase. Two bedrooms sit atop the staircase in a loft-style space and the home sleeps four guests.

The property includes a winding stone footpath, a babbling creek, a pond, and plenty of forested outdoor space. A large wooden patio serves as an ideal place to sit among the trees and enjoy coffee or drinks.

This listing has availability at the end of October and is wide open from November onward.

Rating: 4.95

Covid-19 policies: No new policies are outlined, but several recent guests have noted the property is clean and tidy and the host has 4.9 out of 5 for cleanliness.

Rocky Mountain tree house in Carbondale, Colorado, $309

Rocky Mountain tree house in Carbondale, Colorado, $309
AirBnb
Book this mountain tree house starting at $309 per night on Airbnb

Set on two acres with a cattle creek running through the property, this tree house is attached to 100-foot spruce trees and sits 25 feet off the ground. The home is accessed via a rock staircase.

Hand-built in 1971, this home has a true rustic cabin feel, including a wood-burning stove, a rock shower, and a lofted bedroom with skylights for stargazing.

A spacious balcony offers stunning views and a wood-burning fireplace, so it's useable even on chilly evenings. Lucky guests might even spot wildlife that includes bears. As a major perk, the house also includes a hot tub.

This listing has availability beginning at the end of October.

Rating: 4.83

Covid-19 policies: No specific new policies are listed, but the Superhost has a 4.8 out of 5 for cleanliness.

Dreamy tree house in Atlanta, Georgia, $389

Dreamy tree house in Atlanta, Georgia, $389
AirBnb
Book this dreamy tree house starting at $389 per night on Airbnb

This idyllic property with rope bridges and twinkle lights is what tree house dreams are made of.

Featured in publications from Architectural Digest to Harper's Bazaar, the inviting, expertly-curated interiors include string lights matching those on the exterior, along with a turquoise writing desk, and a bed that rests on an indoor/outdoor platform so it feels like you're practically sleeping in the trees. Elegant french doors and large windows that open from the bottom out complete the whimsical space.

The tree house consists of three distinct areas all connected by bridges: a bedroom, a living area, and a hammock deck. While there is no bathroom directly inside, there is a bathroom in the basement of the main house on the property that is exclusively for tree house guest use.

One of the most popular listings on Airbnb, this tree house books fast. It happens to have last-minute availability the weekend of August 14, 2020, but otherwise is booked for the next several months. It doesn't hurt to check to see if any other last-minute windows open up, though.

Rating: 4.94

Covid-19 policies: No specific new procedures are listed but the Superhosts have a 4.8 out of 5 rating for cleanliness.

Secluded tree house retreat in Whitefish, Montana, $399

Secluded tree house retreat in Whitefish, Montana, $399
Vrbo
Book this secluded tree house starting at $399 per night on Vrbo

Nestled on seven acres of private woods, this artfully designed two-story tree house is a unique stay that comes with plenty of luxury amenities. The spiral staircase was custom crafted around a giant Douglas fir tree, and there are two living trees that grow through the home and two outdoor decks.

While there is just one main bedroom, the house can sleep up to four guests since padded seating areas can be put together to make extra sleeping space in the main room.

The location itself is a major draw since the home is found right near the entrance to Glacier National Park and just a few minutes from the slopes of Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort.

This home has availability beginning at the end of October.

Rating: 5

Covid-19 policies: No specific new policies are listed but the host has a perfect 5 rating.

Modern cabin tree house in Lake Tahoe, California, $549

Modern cabin tree house in Lake Tahoe, California, $549
Vrbo
Book this tree house cabin starting at $549 per night on Vrbo

While on the pricier end, this stunning cabin rests at the end of a long wooden walkway surrounded by an acre of soaring pine trees. It can sleep up to six guests making it a good option for families or big groups, and it's close to the crystal clear waters of Lake Tahoe.

The home also comes with plenty of modern luxuries to justify the price, including a large stone fireplace, a private hot tub on the deck with lake views, a washer/dryer, and high-end bath amenities.

For those eyeing winter stays, this home is also close to two chairlifts, making hitting the slopes extra easy.

The house still has plenty of availability starting in mid-October and into November.

Rating: 5

Covid-19 policies: None are specifically listed, but the host has a perfect 5 rating.

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