A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boone vs. Glacier National Park for Backpackers, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Boone or Glacier National Park?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Boone and Glacier National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Boone

Boone is a charming, relaxing, and quaint town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a gorgeous, stunning, and breathtaking park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Boone and Glacier National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Ridge Parkway
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Going-to-the-Sun Road
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Boone or Glacier National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Boone than Glacier National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Boone is better known for its skiing, museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Glacier National Park is more popular for its resorts and impressive beauty. Glacier National Park is more touristy than Boone and is popular for its miles of hiking trails, impressive glaciers, and pristine lakes. Boone is well known for its proximity to great hiking, skiing, and small town charm. Also, Boone is famous for the Blue Ridge Parkway.

How is Boone different from Glacier National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Boone or Glacier National Park Better for Skiing?

Boone
Glacier National Park

Boone is notable for snow skiing. However, Glacier National Park is not a skiing destination.

Boone is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. It's a very popular ski destination in North Carolina. There are family-friendly slopes as well as more challenging options. Head to the popular Appalachian Ski Mountain, nearby Beech Mountain, or Sugar Mountain for some of the area's best skiing.

Glacier National Park is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boone or Glacier National Park?

Boone
Glacier National Park

Boone is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its museums and history.

Boone is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most people spend the majority of their time exploring the natural beauty, but there are also several small local museums such as the Banner House Museum.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Glacier National Park. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most people head straight for the park.

Is the Food Better in Boone or Glacier National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boone
Glacier National Park

Boone is a popular place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its restaurants.

Boone offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find farm to table restaurants, local cafes, and all of the standard chain restaurants nearby. Check for a High Country Grown certification if you want to prioritize locally sourced ingredients.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Glacier National Park. You'll find several restaurants and cafes both within and near the park, but this is an incredibly crowded park so you'll want to make reservations well in advance.

Is Boone or Glacier National Park Better for Nightlife?

Boone
Glacier National Park

Boone is notable for nightlife. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for nightlife and partying.

Boone has plenty to do after the sun goes down. It's a small town, but there are local breweries and a great nightlife scene that is, in large part, influenced by the large student population.

Glacier National Park doesn't offer many options. People visit for the scenery, not the nightlife scene.


Is Boone or Glacier National Park Better for Resorts?

Boone
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Boone is not a resort destination.

Glacier National Park has a few great resort options. There are several lodges, cabins, and inns near or within the park, but reservations are recommended well in advance.

Boone is not a resort destination.

Is Boone or Glacier National Park Better for Hiking?

Boone
Glacier National Park

You'll find great hiking in both Boone and Glacier National Park.

Many visitors go to Boone for the hiking trails. The area is filled with wonderful hikes, particularly around Grandfather Mountain and along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The famed Appalachian Trail passes through the area as well. Many hikes take you through beautiful forests, passed dramatic waterfalls, and to breathtaking viewpoints.

Glacier National Park is a popular spot for hiking. There are more than 700 miles of trails in the park. For the best experience, you should purchase a permit and explore the parks backcountry. Other popular trails include Highline Trail, Grinnell Glacier Trail, and Avalanche Lake Trail. It's best to start in the early morning as this is a popular park and the trails get busier as the day progresses.

Is the Shopping Better in Boone or Glacier National Park?

Boone
Glacier National Park

Boone is notable for shopping. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its shopping opportunities.

Boone is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Wander along King Street for some of the town's best shopping. There are independent vendors and antique shops that are fun to pop into. The town is also known for its farmer's markets.

If you're looking to go shopping, Glacier National Park has some nice offerings. There are park stores where you can pick up books, souvenirs, and gifts.


Is Boone or Glacier National Park Better for Families?

Boone
Glacier National Park

Boone is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Boone is a very family-friendly place to visit. Near town you'll find kid-friendly hikes, such as Linville Falls. There are also several places where kids can go ziplining or rock climbing. Parks and outdoor activities are abundant and the whole family will enjoy the setting.

Glacier National Park is a family-friendly town. The landscapes are spectacular, but the crowds can be intense, which means it can be hard to find places to pull over and park during the peak seasons. Keep this in mind when you're traveling with kids because you may end up spending more time in the car than you'd expected.

Is Boone or Glacier National Park Better for Couples?

Boone
Glacier National Park

Both Boone and Glacier National Park are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Boone is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The charming town has a romantic setting with local restaurants, beautiful hikes, and plenty of shopping. Couples enjoy staying at bed and breakfasts and enjoying the quaint atmosphere.

Glacier National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Drive along the scenic Going-to-the-Sun-Road and take in the truly breathtaking scenery. Many people consider this to be a top destination for a honeymoon and couples will appreciate the impressive hikes, dramatic waterfalls, and adventure-filled activities.

Is Boone or Glacier National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boone
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Boone is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Glacier National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. The backcountry is truly pristine, and obtaining a Wilderness Permit and getting off-the-beaten-path will help you escape some of the crowds that the park is known for.

It's common for backpackers to visit Boone. While there aren't many hostels in the area, there are plenty of campgrounds. The nearby Appalachian State University also ensures that there are plenty of fun activities for young visitors.


Is Boone or Glacier National Park Better for Students?

Boone
Glacier National Park

Boone is very popular for students. However, Glacier National Park is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Boone. This mountain town offers a great setting for students who enjoy hiking and skiing. Appalachian State University is a fun college with plenty of activities going on.

Glacier National Park is not popular with students.

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

Boone
Glacier National Park

Boone and Glacier National Park both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Boone. You really need a car to make the most of your time.

Public transit is generally limited in Glacier National Park. There's a free shuttle along Going-to-the-Sun Road that's available on a first-come, first-served basis, but expect crowds. The road can get quite congested during peak times. There are also tours that take you along the road so you can enjoy the scenery without having to focus on driving.

Is Boone or Glacier National Park a more walkable city?

Boone
Glacier National Park

Boone is notable for its walkability. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its high level of walkability.

Boone is very walkable. Head to King Street for the best shopping and the most pedestrian-friendly part of town.

Glacier National Park is not a very walkable town. You'll need a car to get almost anywhere in the park.


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

Should I spend more time in Glacier National Park or Boone?

How long in Boone or Glacier National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Boone and Glacier National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Boone than in Glacier National Park. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Boone, and 2-3 days is enough time in Glacier National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Boone than Glacier National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Boone that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boone than Glacier National Park 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 Boone.


  • How many days in Boone or Glacier National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boone 2-4 
    Glacier National Park 2-3

One day in Boone or Glacier National Park?

Even though Boone is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Glacier National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Boone or Glacier National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boone. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town. It offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Glacier National Park. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Boone or Glacier National Park?

Boone is a fun place to experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Glacier National Park is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Glacier National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Boone or Glacier National Park?

Boone is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find around the gorgeous destination of Glacier National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Glacier National Park or Boone?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Boone is $173, while the average daily cost in Glacier National Park is $127. 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 Boone and Glacier National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boone $91
    Glacier National Park $56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boone $182
    Glacier National Park $112
Compare Hotels in Boone and Glacier National Park

Looking for a hotel in Boone or Glacier 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 Boone


Hotels in Glacier 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: Boone Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boone $33
    Glacier National Park $69

Is it cheaper to fly into Boone or Glacier National Park?

Prices for flights to both Glacier National Park and Boone 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
    Boone $53
    Glacier National Park $28
Typical Food Prices in Boone

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Boone:


  • Restaurant Lunch for 2
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Glacier National Park

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

  • Half Day Whitewater Rafting with Riverside Dinner: $113

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boone $53
    Glacier National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Glacier National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Glacier National Park are as follows:

  • Combo Tour: Driving and Snowshoe Trek of Glacier National Park: $220
  • Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $220
  • Full Day Glacier National Park Whitewater Rafting Adventure - With Lunch!: $152
  • Full Day Whitewater Adventure Trip with Included Lunch: $157
  • Glacier National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Half Day Bike and Hike Tour in around Whitefish: $175
  • Half-Day Glacier National Park Whitewater Rafting Adventure: $87
  • Self Guided Bike Tour in Glacier National Park : $65
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $12

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boone $26
    Glacier National Park $8.41


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Boone and Glacier National Park, we can see that Boone is more expensive. And not only is Glacier National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Glacier National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Glacier 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 Boone would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boone than you might in Glacier National Park.

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