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

Should you visit Boone or Zion 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 Zion National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Boone

Boone is a quaint, picturesque, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Boone is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food. See Boone travel costs.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a stunning, world-renowned, and breathtaking park. Many visitors also come to Zion National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Zion National Park travel costs.

Boone and Zion 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 Angels Landing
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 Zion National Park?

Both Zion National Park and Boone have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Boone is better known for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Zion National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Zion National Park is more touristy than Boone and is popular for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing. Boone is well known for its proximity to great hiking, skiing, and small town charm.

How is Boone different from Zion National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Boone or Zion National Park Better for Skiing?

Boone
Zion National Park

Boone is well known for winter skiing. However, Zion 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.

Zion National Park is not a skiing destination.


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

Boone
Zion National Park

Boone is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Zion National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The best museum in the area is the Zion Human History Museum.

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

Boone
Zion National Park

Boone is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

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 Zion National Park. Within the park there are a couple of restaurants, but it's far better to bring your own food that you can enjoy as a picnic or meal by a campfire.

Is Boone or Zion National Park Better for Nightlife?

Boone
Zion National Park

Boone is well known for nightlife. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Boone is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Zion National Park Stargazing and relaxing by a campfire is how most visitors enjoy the evening hours.


Is Boone or Zion National Park Better for Resorts?

Boone
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Boone is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Zion National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. There's a lodge within the park and many hotel options outside of the park.

Boone is not a resort destination.

Is Boone or Zion National Park Better for Hiking?

Boone
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is an amazing park to visit for hiking. Also, Boone is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Zion National Park specifically for its hiking. This park is known for its iconic hikes, which include Angels Landing, the Narrows, and the Emerald Pools Trail. There are hikes that range from easy to incredibly difficult, and many visits see this destination as a bucket list hiking opportunity.

Boone is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Boone or Zion National Park?

Boone
Zion National Park

Boone is well known for shopping. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known 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.

Shopping in Zion National Park can be found for those interested. There are park stores, but few other shopping opportunities in the area.


Is Boone or Zion National Park More Beautiful?

Boone
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is an amazing park to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Boone is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Zion National Park because of it's amazing beauty. This park will have you feeling as if you're in a painting. There are spectacular views and a stunning natural beauty that will take your breath away.

Boone is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The surrounding area is filled with great natural beauty and wonderful hikes.

Is Boone or Zion National Park Better for Families?

Boone
Zion National Park

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Boone or Zion National Park.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Boone. 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.

Zion National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. One of the most kid-friendly hikes is the Watchman Trail, which starts conveniently near the Visitor Center. Other favorites include the Lower Emerald Pool Trail, the Pa'rus Trail, and the Riverside Walk.

Is Boone or Zion National Park Better for Couples?

Boone
Zion National Park

Both Boone and Zion National Park are excellent 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.

Zion National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are world-class hiking trails, spectacular views, and many opportunities for a romantic moment in this well-known park. While the crowds can be intense, particularly during peak seasons, the park is large enough that you should be able to find a moment of solitude.


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

Boone
Zion National Park

Zion 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 Zion National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. This is a world-famous rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking destination. There are many opportunities for backcountry camping, but you are required to purchase a permit.

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 Zion National Park Better for Students?

Boone
Zion National Park

Boone is a must-visit destination for students. However, Zion National Park is not popular with students.

Boone is a great destination for students. 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.

Zion National Park is not popular with students.

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

Boone
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Boone is not known for its public transit.

While Zion National Park offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are free shuttles that travel around the park. They operate during the most popular seasons but the service isn't available during most of the winter months.

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


Is Boone or Zion National Park a more walkable city?

Boone
Zion National Park

Boone is well known for its walkability. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known 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.

Zion National Park is not a very walkable town. The park is large, and most trailheads are spread out and require a vehicle to access.

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

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

How long in Boone or Zion National Park?

Both Boone and Zion National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zion National Park than in Boone. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Boone, and 3-7 days is enough time in Zion National Park.

Families should spend more time in Boone than Zion 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 Zion 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 Zion 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 Zion National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boone 2-4 
    Zion National Park 3-7

One day in Boone or Zion National Park?

Boone might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Zion National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Zion National Park?

Boone is a popular place to visit. Even though Boone is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Boone has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zion National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Boone or Zion National Park?

Since Boone is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days 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.

Zion National Park is a fun place to experience. In Zion National Park, many people enjoy the that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Boone or Zion National Park?

Boone is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

In Zion National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


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 Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Zion National Park or Boone?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Boone Prices
    USA Prices
    Zion National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Boone $211
    Zion National Park $146

The average daily cost (per person) in Boone is $211, while the average daily cost in Zion National Park is $146. 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 Zion National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boone $91
    Zion National Park $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boone $182
    Zion National Park $120
Compare Hotels in Boone and Zion National Park

Looking for a hotel in Boone or Zion 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 Zion 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 and Zion National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boone $33
    Zion National Park $30

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

Prices for flights to both Zion 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 $91
    Zion National Park $64
Typical Food Prices in Boone

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


  • Restaurant Lunch for 2
    $20

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boone $53
    Zion National Park $26

Tours and Activities in Zion National Park

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

  • Private Sunset Guided Tour to Great Chamber by Four-Wheel Drive: $125
  • Slot Canyon Tour & Sandboarding UTV Adventure: $129
  • 2-Hour Private Light Painting Experience on the Sand Dunes: $299
  • 3 Hour Guided E Bike Tour in Zion National Park : $125
  • Award Winning UTV Slot Canyon Tour: $105
  • Campfire S'mores and Stars Tour in Kanab: $65
  • Coral Pink Sand Dunes Ride Climb and Rappel Adventure: $139
  • East Zion 2.5 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour: $119
  • East Zion 4 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour: $174
  • East Zion Brushy Cove Jeep Tour: $117
  • East Zion Canyoneering: Elkheart Canyon & UTV Tour: $201
  • East Zion Crimson Canyon Hike & UTV Adventure: $130

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boone $26
    Zion National Park $8.28


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Boone and Zion National Park, we can see that Boone is more expensive. And not only is Zion National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Zion National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Zion 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 Zion 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 Zion National Park Expensive?.