A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Bryce Canyon National Park vs. Columbia River Gorge for Hiking, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Bryce Canyon National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

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 Bryce Canyon National Park and Columbia River Gorge can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a spectacular, other-worldly, and breathtaking park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for hiking.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a natural, beautiful, and scenic region. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Bryce Canyon National Park and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bryce Canyon National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Columbia River Gorge. Although Bryce Canyon National Park and Columbia River Gorge are popular destinations, Columbia River Gorge has more sights and attractions for tourists. Columbia River Gorge is very popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Bryce Canyon National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Bryce Canyon National Park is more touristy than Columbia River Gorge and is popular for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters. Columbia River Gorge is famous for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls. It is also well known for Vista House at Crown Point.

How is Bryce Canyon National Park different from Columbia River Gorge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bryce Canyon National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Columbia River Gorge is adequate for its historical sights. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

While most people don't head to Columbia River Gorge specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most visitors spend their time exploring the region's natural beauty.

Bryce Canyon National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. While information is available at the visitor center, there are no real museums within the park.

Is the Food Better in Bryce Canyon National Park or Columbia River Gorge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Columbia River Gorge is a great region for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Columbia River Gorge has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find many great restaurants in the area that serve local dishes that make use of the region's agricultural scene.

Bryce Canyon National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a couple of restaurants within the park. Just outside the park there are a number of options as well, including large buffets that cater to large tour groups and the tourist crowds. It's best to arrive early for these buffets.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Columbia River Gorge is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

If you're looking for night time activities Columbia River Gorge has a few options to choose from. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.

People don't go to Bryce Canyon National Park for the nightlife. There's no full service bar in town, so plan ahead if you want to have drinks.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Columbia River Gorge Better for Resorts?

Bryce Canyon National Park is a moderate park for its resorts. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

Bryce Canyon National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. There's a lodge within the park and the hotels outside the park are mostly operated by Ruby's Inn and Bryce Canyon Resort.

Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Bryce Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Bryce Canyon National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hiking through the iconic hoodoos is a truly magical experience. There are shorter hikes such as the Mossy Cave Trail or the Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Trail. There are also more intense hikes and even a number of backcountry trails that will let you experience the park on a more personal level.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Columbia River Gorge. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.

Is the Shopping Better in Bryce Canyon National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Columbia River Gorge is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Columbia River Gorge. Art galleries feature local artwork and artisan crafts. There are photography shops and other venues that sell items highlighting the region's beauty.

Bryce Canyon National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are shops and markets where you can pick up necessities. There are also a couple of gift shops.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Bryce Canyon National Park or Columbia River Gorge.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bryce Canyon National Park is very family-friendly. The kids will be as mesmerized as the adults with this spectacular park. There are great hikes for the whole family as well as horseback riding and ranger programs. For the best horseback riding experience, it's best to book your ride within the park. There are also private vendors that offer options outside the park.

Columbia River Gorge is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love exploring the waterfalls and mountains as much as the adults do. There are kid-friendly hikes as well as bakeries and restaurants with many kid options.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

Both Bryce Canyon National Park and Columbia River Gorge are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a great park if you're traveling as a couple. The spectacular sunset views make this a truly romantic destination. The colors and setting are surreal and the hikes are spectacular. Couples will find a range of accommodation options that include large resort hotels just outside the park and camping within the park.

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Columbia River Gorge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bryce Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. For most visitors, this park is a short stop, but for those who want to experience it in depth, there are many backcountry hikes that let you enjoy a very different side to the park. You'll need a permit, but the backcountry lets you enjoy a peaceful solitude that you won't find in the more touristy areas.

Many backpackers visit Columbia River Gorge. You'll find hostels and campgrounds in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Columbia River Gorge Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bryce Canyon National Park and Columbia River Gorge both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Bryce Canyon National Park. The Bryce Canyon Shuttle travels to the most popular overlooks. It doesn't operate during the winter months.

Public transit is generally limited in Columbia River Gorge. There are some buses, but don't rely on them to efficiently explore.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

Bryce Canyon National Park is a moderate park for its walkability. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its high level of walkability.

Bryce Canyon National Park is generally not very walkable. Most of the trails require a car to access. If you're staying outside the park, you'll also want a private vehicle.

Columbia River Gorge is not a very walkable park. You really need a car to explore the area, but some visitors rely on a bike.

For even more information, also check out Is Bryce Canyon National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Columbia River Gorge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbia River Gorge or Bryce Canyon National Park?

How long in Bryce Canyon National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bryce Canyon National Park and Columbia River Gorge. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than in Columbia River Gorge. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Bryce Canyon National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Columbia River Gorge.

Couples should spend more time in Columbia River Gorge than Bryce Canyon National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Columbia River Gorge that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Columbia River Gorge 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 Bryce Canyon National Park.

One day in Bryce Canyon National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Bryce Canyon National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

In Columbia River Gorge, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this natural destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Bryce Canyon National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Bryce Canyon National Park is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Columbia River Gorge, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this beautiful destination offers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Bryce Canyon National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Bryce Canyon National Park for five days. Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful park of Bryce Canyon National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer.

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Columbia River Gorge. 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. This region offers something for everyone.

A week in Bryce Canyon National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

The breathtaking destination of Bryce Canyon National Park offers . Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful region of Columbia River Gorge. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.

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

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