A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Avon vs. Jasper National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Avon or Jasper National Park?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Avon and Jasper National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Avon

Avon is a outdoorsy, scenic, and active town. It's also known for food, hiking, and skiing.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and adventure-filled national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food and hiking.

Avon and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Icefields Parkway
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Avon or Jasper National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Avon. Although Avon and Jasper National Park are both popular with visitors, Avon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Avon is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, and resorts, while Jasper National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Avon is popular for it's affordable accommodation options and its access to Beaver Creek Ski Resort. It is also home to Avon Recreation Center. Jasper National Park is popular for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty

How is Avon different from Jasper National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Jasper National Park and Avon. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Avon or Jasper National Park Better for Skiing?

Avon
Jasper National Park

Avon is well known for winter skiing. However, Jasper National Park is not a skiing destination.

Avon is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. Beaver Creek is the main ski area near town and it's about a mile away. The town of Avon is below Beaver Creek and is located beside an interstate.

Jasper National Park is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Avon or Jasper National Park?

Avon
Jasper National Park

Both Avon and Jasper National Park have decent landmarks and museums for visitors.

Avon offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While there aren't a ton of museums in the area, it's worth checking out the Walking Mountains Science Center.

While most people don't head to Jasper National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You can learn about the area with a visit to the Jasper Yellowhead Museum & Archive.

Is the Food Better in Avon or Jasper National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Avon
Jasper National Park

Both Avon and Jasper National Park offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

Avon offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are casual eateries where you can grab a bite to eat, whether you're in the mood for Chinese, pizza, or burgers.

Jasper National Park has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are several decent restaurants and bistros near or in the park. Many are connected to lodges and some offer great views.

Is Avon or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Avon
Jasper National Park

Avon is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Avon has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's a small town but there are some bars and lively pubs where you can enjoy cold drinks.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Jasper National Park Stargazing and sitting by an open fire is the best way to spend the evening.


Is Avon or Jasper National Park Better for Resorts?

Avon
Jasper National Park

Avon is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.

Avon has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are the typical chain resort options, many with beautiful mountain views.

Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Avon or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Avon
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Avon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Jasper National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hiking is a truly world class experience in this large park. There are miles of trails, both backcountry and more accessible, that allow access to the park's stunning beauty. Whether you're looking for a shorter family-friendly hike, or planning a multi-week backcountry adventure, this park has it all.

Avon is a good destination for hiking. There are paved trails and recreational paths through town that are great for both hiking and biking. The main ones are Eagle Valley Trail and the trails in West Avon Preserve.

Is the Shopping Better in Avon or Jasper National Park?

Avon
Jasper National Park

Both Avon and Jasper National Park are decent shopping destinations.

Avon is a good destination for shopping. There aren't a ton of shopping opportunities in town, but there are enough shops around in case you need to pick up necessities or buy a gift.

If you're looking to go shopping, Jasper National Park has some nice offerings. In town you'll find shops where you can pick up souvenirs or things you may have forgotten.


Is Avon or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Avon
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Avon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Jasper National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who love running, hiking, and exploring will enjoy a visit to this iconic park. The hiking trails are world class and you'll likely see some wildlife during your trip. Camping with s'mores and hot dogs will make for a memorable family vacation.

Avon is a family-friendly town. There are parks and playgrounds around town and there's easy access to the Beaver Creek Ski Resort. There's also plenty of hiking in the area.

Is Avon or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Avon
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is notable for romance. Also, Avon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.

Jasper National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are lodges where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway. For the more adventurous, camping is a great way to experience the park. If you enjoy outdoor adventures together, then this is a great place to spend some time in nature.

Avon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While avid skiers prefer to stay at nearby Beaver Creek, the town of Avon offers a good alternative.

Is Avon or Jasper National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Avon
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers. However, Avon is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Jasper National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Camping is the best way to experience the park in full. You'll be surrounded by nature, and if you're lucky, some wildlife might pass by as well.

Avon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers prefer to stay closer to the ski facilities.


Is Avon or Jasper National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Avon
Jasper National Park

Avon is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Avon, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are shuttles and buses that travel through town and to Beaver Creek.

Public transit is quite limited in Jasper National Park. If you don't have your own vehicle, a bus tour is your best option for experiencing the park.

Is Avon or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Avon
Jasper National Park

Avon is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Avon is somewhat walkable. The town center is small and there are paved walking trails that you can use. It's possible to walk to restaurants or the recreation center, depending on where you're staying.

Jasper National Park is not a very walkable town. The park is large, and a vehicle is necessary to reach most trailheads.

For even more information, also check out Is Avon Worth Visiting? and Is Jasper National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Jasper National Park or Avon?

How long in Avon or Jasper National Park?

In either Avon or Jasper National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Jasper National Park than Avon because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Avon, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

Families should spend more time in Jasper National Park than Avon. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Jasper National Park, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Jasper National Park than Avon if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Jasper National Park.


  • How many days in Avon or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Avon 2-4 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in Avon or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the destination of Avon. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Jasper National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Avon or Jasper National Park?

Avon is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Jasper National Park is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Avon or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Avon for five days. You'll find food and skiing around the town of Avon. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the breathtaking destination of Jasper National Park. This national park offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Avon or Jasper National Park?

The active destination of Avon offers skiing and nightlife. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The adventure-filled national park of Jasper National Park offers food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Toronto, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Vancouver.


Which place is cheaper, Jasper National Park or Avon?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Avon is $277, while the average daily cost in Jasper National Park is $83. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Avon and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Avon $177
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Avon $354
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Avon and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Avon or Jasper National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Avon


Hotels in Jasper National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Avon Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Avon $41
    Jasper National Park $20

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Jasper National Park

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Jasper National Park are as follows:


  • Park Pass
    $14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jasper National Park

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Jasper National Park:

  • Jasper Thermal Resorts to Calgary Airport YYC Departure Transfer: $175

Is it cheaper to fly into Avon or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and Avon change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Avon $67
    Jasper National Park $24

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jasper National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Jasper National Park.

  • Half-Day Jasper Culture Food Tour: $108
  • Peak Nic - A hike and an outdoor cooking lesson: $121
  • 4-Hours E-Bike Food Tour : $204

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Avon $48
    Jasper National Park $7.86

Tours and Activities in Jasper National Park

Here are a few actual costs in Jasper National Park for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Icefields Parkway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Live Theater Show Ticket 'From Jasper with love': $25
  • Planetarium and Telescope Combo Tour : $55
  • From Jasper: Jasper National Park Wildlife Discovery Tour: $59
  • Maligne Canyon Hiking Tour: $61
  • Jasper Evening Wildlife Tour: $65
  • Morning Jasper National Park Wildlife Tour: $65
  • Jasper National Park Tour: Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake and Spirit Island: $65
  • Winter Wildlife Discovery Tour: $65
  • Maligne Lake Cruise: $68
  • Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Hike: $73
  • 1-Hour Guided Group Fat Bike Tour: $83

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Avon $38
    Jasper National Park $12


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Avon and Jasper National Park, we can see that Avon is more expensive. And not only is Jasper National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Jasper National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Jasper National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Avon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Avon than you might in Jasper National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Avon Expensive? and Is Jasper National Park Expensive?.